University of Reading United Kingdom

BA Archaeology and Anthropology with Study Year Abroad

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

Embark on a journey through human history and culture with the BA Archaeology and Anthropology with Study Year Abroad at the University of Reading. This undergraduate degree is designed for curious minds eager to understand the breadth of human experience, from our earliest ancestors to contemporary global societies. You will explore the material evidence of the past through archaeology and the diverse practices of present-day cultures through anthropology, developing a nuanced perspective on what it means to be human. This course provides a robust academic foundation for addressing critical global issues such as environmental change, inequality, and sustainability.

You will study this programme full-time on campus over four years, including a dedicated study year abroad at one of our international partner universities. Your learning will encompass archaeological fieldwork, the analysis of artefacts, the study of human remains, and the exploration of social and cultural geography. Through compulsory modules like 'Archaeology Today: Methods and Practice' and 'Contemporary World Cultures', alongside optional subjects, you will develop essential research and analytical skills. Graduates will be well-prepared for diverse career paths in heritage, research, international development, and beyond.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program offers a comprehensive exploration of human history and cultural diversity, blending archaeological methods with anthropological perspectives. You will investigate the human journey from its origins to contemporary societies, examining key transitions and global challenges. The curriculum includes practical archaeological training, the study of ancient objects and cultures, and an in-depth analysis of sustainability and social geography. A significant component of this degree is a dedicated year abroad, providing invaluable international experience before culminating in a dissertation.

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

Study year abroad

4 YEAR 4

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 40,483.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 40,483.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 40,483.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 40,483.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 161,933.00

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 & OperationsAdvertising TechnologyAlternative Aviation Fuel & SustainabilityAviation Maintenance & RepairAviation Safety & RegulationDigital MarketingEvent & Experiential MarketingMarketing Analytics & Data ManagementSpace Exploration & Satellite TechnologyUnmanned Aerial Vehicles (Drones)

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Kings College London

Manchester City Council

Why Study BA Archaeology and Anthropology with Study Year Abroad 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 with Study Year Abroad at University of Reading

Can I work while studying?

As an international student, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is necessary for degree students.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English language requirements, you can submit scores from Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Specific scores vary, but generally, you'll need a minimum overall score of 6.5 in IELTS or equivalent.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Possible job titles include Archaeologist, Cultural Resource Manager, Museum Curator, Anthropologist, and Academic Researcher.

What will I actually study in this course?

This degree explores humanity from its earliest origins to modern cultures. You will gain international experience while studying topics such as archaeology and anthropology.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BA Archaeology and Anthropology with Study Year Abroad program starts in September. Be sure to prepare your application in advance for a smooth intake process.
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