University of Reading United Kingdom

BA Archaeology with Professional Placement

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 with the BA Archaeology with Professional Placement at the University of Reading. This undergraduate degree is designed for those fascinated by the material remains of past societies, from the earliest hominins to the complexities of early empires like Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Rome. You will explore how archaeological methods and practices, including fieldwork and post-excavation analysis, help us reconstruct and understand human development. This course is ideal if you are driven to investigate critical global issues such as climate change, inequality, and migration through a deep-time perspective, preparing you for a world where understanding the past is key to navigating the future.

Studied full-time on campus over four years, this programme offers a dynamic learning experience that balances theoretical knowledge with practical application. You will engage with diverse modules covering topics from forensic anthropology to the archaeology of heritage and cultural property, alongside a dedicated Archaeology Field School and Professional Practice year. Your third year is dedicated to a professional placement, where you will work alongside experts in archaeological research, heritage management, or consultancy, applying your skills in real-world settings. You will graduate with a comprehensive understanding of archaeological science and a robust portfolio of workplace experience, ready for careers in research, museums, heritage organisations, and beyond.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA Archaeology program offers a comprehensive study of human history and cultural development, from early human origins to contemporary societies. You will explore archaeological methods, ancient civilizations, and the anthropology of death, with opportunities to delve into specialized areas like forensic anthropology, Roman history, or museum studies. The curriculum also includes a significant professional placement component, allowing you to gain practical experience in the field and develop essential professional skills.

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

2 YEAR 2

Archaeology and heritage: past, present and future Compulsory
Ancient objects: materials and meanings Compulsory
Archaeology field school and professional practice Compulsory
Prehistoric Europe: the first million years Optional
Bioarchaeology Optional
Changing the face of the earth: past, present and future sustainability Optional
Summer placement Optional
Celts and Romans: Northern Europe and Britain Optional
Medieval Europe: power, religion and death Optional
Museum learning and engagement Optional
Curatorship and collections management Optional
Optional language or university wide module Optional

3 YEAR 3

4 YEAR 4

Dissertation in archaeology Compulsory
Archaeology of the dark ages Optional
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 Palaeolithic Optional
The archaeology and anthropology of food Optional
Living in medieval towns Optional
Neolithic and early bronze age Britain Optional
Optional language or university wide module Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 33,849.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 33,849.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 33,849.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 33,849.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 135,399.00

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 Engineering & DesignAerospace Supply Chain & LogisticsAviation Maintenance & RepairBrand ManagementClient Services & Account ManagementCreative & ContentDefense & Military AviationMarket Research & InsightsPublic Relations

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Kings College London

Manchester City Council

Why Study BA Archaeology with Professional Placement 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 with Professional Placement 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. No separate work permit is needed for degree courses.

Is this qualification recognised internationally?

Yes. This course is accredited by Chartered Institute for Archaeologists.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you need to meet specific English language requirements. Acceptable tests include IELTS, with a minimum overall score of 6.5, or TOEFL with an overall score of 100.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Archaeologists, Museum Curators, Heritage Managers, Field Technicians, or Research Associates.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program allows you to explore the material remains of past societies and develop practical workplace skills. It is accredited and highly ranked for both research quality and teaching in Archaeology.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BA Archaeology with Professional Placement program has a September intake. Make sure to apply in advance to secure your spot.
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