Course Overview
This degree combines the study of both historical documents and archaeological remains to understand how past communities lived.
At a Glance
UCAS Code
VV41
UCAS Institution Name and Code
NEWC, N21
Degree Awarded
BA Honours
Course Duration
3 Years
Entry Requirements
A Level: ABB
IB: 32 points
Opportunities
Study abroad
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We focus principally on the period from the Romans to the present day, with modules spanning centuries and continents, giving you flexibility to tailor your degree to your interests.
You begin with the study of Roman, Saxon, Viking, medieval and post-medieval Britain, before exploring European archaeology.
Optional modules in areas such as the history of North America, Mexico, East Asia and Russia are also available.
You'll gain hands-on experience of the past through a minimum of four weeks' excavation fieldwork in your first two years, plus artefact handling at the University-led Great North Museum.
Highlights of this degree
Quality and ranking
Quality and rankingArchaeology at Newcastle achieved a very impressive overall satisfaction score of 98% in the National Student Survey 2016, ranking us 3rd in the UK.
We rank in the top ten in the UK for Archaeology in The Times/Sunday Times Good University Guide 2017 and The Complete University Guide 2017.
Fieldwork and practical skills
Fieldwork and practical skillsPractical skills
Training in practical skills forms an important part of your degree, equipping you with the field skills required by professional archaeologists. You will receive training in:
- fieldwork methods
- artefact handling
- archaeological recording techniques
Fieldwork
You complete a minimum of four weeks' field placement on an approved project in the summer vacations at the end of Stages 1 and 2.
Find out more about the fieldwork opportunities available at Newcastle on the School of History, Classics and Archaeology's website
Other opportunities
You'll have opportunities to develop work-related skills thanks to our very close links with local heritage organisations throughout the region, including:
- our unique Heritage City website, which helps you find opportunities to work alongside professional archaeologists in Newcastle
- volunteering opportunities with heritage organisations in the North East
- work experience in a museum or other heritage organisation, which may be possible in Stage 2
Study abroad
Study abroadStudying abroad as part of your degree is a fun, challenging experience that will broaden your cultural horizons.
It will increase your employability and help you acquire a range of practical life skills. It's also a chance to improve your language skills and develop an international network of friends.
UK and EU students have the opportunity to take part in a study abroad exchange in either Stage 2 or Stage 3.
You can study in a European country, including:
- France
- Italy
- Finland
- Slovenia
You can also choose to study in a non-European country, such as Australia, the USA or Hong Kong.
Historically rich location
Historically rich locationThere can be no better place to study history and archaeology than in the North East of England, home to one of the highest concentrations of World Heritage Sites.
Follow in Hadrian's footsteps and retrace the Romans' campaigns in Britain; venture into the past before history in prehistoric landscapes rich in rock art, burial cairns, hillforts and other monuments; or encounter the Golden Age of the Venerable Bede.
We organise regular one-day study visits and field trips across the archaeological landscape of northern England, including:
- Bede's early medieval monastery at Jarrow
- Gibside
- Beamish Museum
- Derwentcote Steel Works
Facilities and support
Study at Newcastle and you will join a community of professionals, academics and students in the School of History, Classics and Archaeology.
Facilities
Facilities include a dedicated archaeology laboratory with petrology microscopes and stereo-microscopes for artefact analysis, and permanent collections including human remains, animal bones, Roman pottery and our Victorian household collection.
There's also the Cluster for Interdisciplinary Artefact Studies, delivering professional training in handling artefacts, and extensive collections in the University-led Great North Museum adjacent to campus.
Support
You'll be supported throughout the degree by a personal tutor