University of Reading United Kingdom

BA Archaeology

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

Embark on a journey through human history with the BA Archaeology degree at the University of Reading, an undergraduate programme designed for those fascinated by the material evidence of past societies. You will explore how archaeological methods, from fieldwork to post-excavation analysis, reconstruct human development across millennia, examining key issues in our shared past. This course delves into the archaeology of early empires, the scientific study of death through forensic anthropology, and the cultural practices of contemporary societies, providing a robust foundation in a discipline crucial for understanding our present and future.

This full-time, on-campus degree, studied over three years, offers a dynamic learning experience. You will gain hands-on experience through an Archaeology Field School and professional practice, participate in site recording methods, and analyse artefacts. Your studies will culminate in an independent dissertation, allowing you to pursue original research. You will graduate with a comprehensive understanding of archaeological techniques and a critical perspective on heritage, prepared for diverse career paths in museums, heritage management, research, and beyond.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Arts in Archaeology program offers a comprehensive exploration of human history and cultural practices. Students will investigate the human journey from ancient times to the present, learn essential archaeological methods, and examine early civilizations. The curriculum includes compulsory modules on archaeology and heritage, ancient objects, and professional practice, alongside a wide array of optional subjects ranging from forensic anthropology and bioarchaeology to museum studies and specific historical periods. The program culminates in a compulsory dissertation in the final year.

1 Year 1 Compulsory modules

Revolutions and transitions: the human journey from 6 million years ago to the present day
Archaeology today: methods and practice
Early empires: Mesopotamia, Egypt and Rome

2 Year 1 Optional modules

Forensic anthropology and the archaeology of death
Contemporary world cultures: an introduction to social anthropology
Rape in the United States: from colonisation to civil rights
Warfare in early modern Europe, c. 1500-1715
After Malthus: sex, society and sustainability
Roman history: the rise and fall of the Republic
Ancient song
Presenting the past: an introduction to museum studies
Optional language or university wide module

3 YEAR 2 Compulsory modules

Archaeology and heritage: past, present and future
Ancient objects: materials and meanings
Archaeology field school and professional practice

4 YEAR 2 Optional modules

Prehistoric Europe: the first million years
Bioarchaeology
Changing the face of the earth: past, present and future sustainability
Summer placement
Celts and Romans: Northern Europe and Britain
Medieval Europe: power, religion and death
Museum learning and engagement
Curatorship and collections management
Optional language or university wide module

5 YEAR 3 Compulsory modules

Dissertation in archaeology

6 YEAR 3 Optional modules

Archaeology of the dark ages
The anthropology of heritage and cultural property
Objects and identities in the Roman Empire
Biological anthropology
Post-excavation: assessment, analysis and publication in the profession
Emergence of civilisation in Mesopotamia
The first Europeans: archaeology of the lower Palaeolithic
The archaeology and anthropology of food
Living in medieval towns
Neolithic and early bronze age Britain
Optional language or university wide module

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 41,429.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 41,429.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 41,429.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 124,288.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 467.00 - USD 1,787.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,222.00 - USD 8,200.00
Transport USD 903.00 - USD 935.00
Utilities & Bills USD 2,093.00 - USD 2,616.00
Estimated Total USD 6,218.00 - USD 11,228.00

Living cost estimates are based on London Road Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Aerospace ManufacturingAerospace Supply Chain & LogisticsAlternative Aviation Fuel & SustainabilityAviation Maintenance & RepairAviation Safety & RegulationCreative & ContentEvent & Experiential MarketingMarket Research & InsightsPerformance & Growth MarketingPublic Relations

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Kings College London

Manchester City Council

Why Study BA Archaeology at University of Reading

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Reading in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BA Archaeology at University of Reading

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time for degree courses. Full-time work is allowed during breaks.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English language requirements, you can submit results from tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Specific scores are required, such as an overall score of 135 for Duolingo or 6.5 for IELTS.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Archaeologists, Heritage Managers, Museum Curators, or Research Assistants.

What will I actually study in this course?

Explore the material remains of past societies – from the first hominins millions of years ago to the modern day – with our accredited BA Archaeology degree.

Choose the University of Reading

  • Top 100 in the world for Archaeology (QS World Rankings by Subject 2023)
  • Ranked 1st in the UK for environmental and ethical performance (People and Planet University League 2023/24)
  • In 2023, the University of Reading was the first ever winner of the Times

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for the BA Archaeology program is September. Make sure to prepare your application ahead of time to secure your spot.
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