Overview

Overview

• The course covers a broad range of methods and techniques. In our well-equipped laboratories you can learn how to analyse the chemical composition of human and animal bones and discover what they reveal about past diets. In the field you can choose to work on sites in both Britain and overseas, and in the library, you can study archaeological periods ranging from the Palaeolithic (Old Stone Age), through Classical Greece to the medieval and post-medieval periods.
• During your fieldwork you will use equipment including a ground penetrating radar, magnetometers, magnetic susceptibility meters, differential GPS instruments and total stations. You will learn how to use industry-standard computer software such as ArcGIS, Geoplot and AutoCAD. Our department has a geoarchaeological consultancy (ARCA), whose staff will also teach you. The consultancy offers valuable laboratory work experience and an opportunity to see how archaeological science is used in professional archaeology.
• In Year 1 you explore the theory and practice of archaeology, while covering the story of humanity. You explore the methods, theories and approaches that underpin archaeological science, as well as considering the importance of fieldwork and material culture.
• In Year 2, you will undertake four weeks of fieldwork in the Archaeological Fieldwork and Post-fieldwork Techniques module where you will learn essential field skills and explore methods of archive collation and analysis. You will also study Climate and Landscape Change, Theory and Research in Archaeology and have the choice of an optional module.
• During Year 3, you will complete an Extended Independent Study in Archaeology on a topic or theme of your interest. You will also study Archaeology and Heritage: Process and Interpretation considering the role of archaeology and heritage in the public conversation. You will also have a range of optional modules to choose between.
• Many graduates pursue careers in professional archaeology, for example with an archaeological unit. Others work in the applied sciences, including in various types of laboratories, in environmental management and geomatics. And with desirable key skills in areas such as time and project management, problem solving, teamwork, cultural awareness and the ability to express ideas clearly to a wide range of audiences, you are well placed to explore a non-vocational career.
• Find out more about the School of History, Archaeology and Philosophy

Careers

• Graduates proceed directly into a career in professional archaeology, for example with an archaeological trust or unit. Others enter careers within applied science, for example environmental management, geomatics and remote sensing.
• The University of Winchester ranks in the top 25 in the UK for graduates in employment and further study according to the Graduate Outcomes Survey 2024, HESA.