University of Reading United Kingdom

BA Archaeology and Anthropology

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 to understand humanity from its earliest origins to the diverse cultures of today with the BA Archaeology and Anthropology at the University of Reading. This undergraduate degree is designed for curious minds eager to explore the material evidence of our past and the complexities of contemporary societies. You will delve into critical global issues such as environmental change, inequality, and human development, gaining insights into how past and present societies have navigated similar challenges. This course offers a unique blend of scientific, social science, and humanities methodologies to explore the vast spectrum of human experience.

Studied full-time on campus over three years, your learning experience will be hands-on and investigative. You will develop skills in analysing artefacts, understanding biological and ethnographic evidence, and exploring burial archaeology and biological anthropology. The syllabus includes practical fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and the opportunity to engage with topics like human remains and the impact of climate change. You will graduate with a broad range of subject-specific and transferable skills, preparing you for careers in heritage, research, policy, and beyond, with potential for placements and study abroad opportunities.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program offers a comprehensive exploration of human history and culture, spanning from early human evolution to contemporary societies. Students will engage with archaeological methods, anthropological theories, and their practical applications in understanding past and present human experiences. The curriculum covers diverse topics such as human origins, cultural practices, heritage management, and the analysis of material remains, culminating in a dissertation for advanced study.

1 YEAR 1

Revolutions and transitions: the human journey from 6 million years ago to the present day Compulsory
Archaeology today: methods and practice Compulsory
Forensic anthropology and the archaeology of death Compulsory
Contemporary world cultures: an introduction to social anthropology Compulsory
Global challenges Compulsory
Presenting the past: an introduction to museum studies Optional
Landscapes and resources Optional
Approaching human geography Optional
Geographical imaginaries Optional
Optional language modules

2 YEAR 2

Archaeology and heritage: past, present and future Compulsory
Archaeology field school and professional practice Compulsory
Changing the face of the earth: past, present and future sustainability Compulsory
Living with each other: social and cultural geography Compulsory
Ancient objects: materials and meanings Optional
Prehistoric Europe: the first million years Optional
Celts and romans: northern Europe and Britain Optional
Medieval Europe: power, religion and death Optional
Bioarchaeology Optional
Summer placement Optional
Museum learning and engagement Optional
Curatorship and collections management Optional
Optional language modules

3 YEAR 3

Dissertation in archaeology Compulsory
The anthropology of heritage and cultural property Optional
Objects and identities in the Roman Empire Optional
Biological anthropology Optional
Post-excavation: assessment, analysis and publication in the profession Optional
Emergence of civilisation in Mesopotamia Optional
The first Europeans: archaeology of the lower Paleolithic Optional
The archaeology and anthropology of food Optional
Living in medieval towns Optional
Science and the dead: taphonomy and chemistry in human remains Optional
Neolithic and early Bronze Age Britain Optional
Archaeology of the Dark Ages Optional
Deathscapes and dark tourism Optional
Optional language modules

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 1,126.00 - USD 18,832.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 645.00 - USD 1,289.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 1,934.00
Estimated Total USD 4,190.00 - USD 7,251.00

Living cost estimates are based on WhiteKnights Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

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

Common Graduate Roles

Advertising Finance & OperationsAerospace Research & AcademiaAirport Infrastructure & Aviation SecurityCreative Production & Project ManagementDefense & Military AviationMarketing Analytics & Data ManagementMedia Planning & BuyingPublic RelationsSocial Media & Community ManagementSpace Exploration & Satellite Technology

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Kings College London

Manchester City Council

Why Study BA Archaeology and Anthropology 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 and Anthropology at University of Reading

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks without needing a separate work permit. This applies to those enrolled in degree courses.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English test requirements, you can choose from various tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Each test has specific score requirements to ensure proficiency.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Archaeologists, Cultural Resource Managers, Museum Curators, Heritage Consultants, or Anthropologists.

What will I actually study in this course?

This degree explores humanity's origins and the cultures of today. You will study topics like archaeology and anthropology, focusing on both past societies and current social practices.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake for the BA Archaeology and Anthropology course is in September. Make sure to prepare your application and related documents in advance.
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