The BA Museum Studies and Archaeology with International Foundation Year at the University of Reading is your gateway to understanding and engaging with the past through both material culture and archaeological discovery. This programme is ideal for international students seeking to build a strong academic foundation before embarking on a full undergraduate degree. You will explore the methods and practices of modern archaeology, from fieldwork to post-excavation analysis, and delve into the archaeology of early empires and prehistoric Europe. Simultaneously, you will gain an introduction to museum studies, learning about curatorship, collections management, and how to present the past to diverse audiences. This comprehensive approach equips you with a unique interdisciplinary perspective essential for understanding human history and cultural heritage.
This four-year undergraduate degree, studied full-time on campus, begins with an intensive foundation year designed to develop your academic and study skills, ensuring you are fully prepared for the rigours of university-level work. Following this, you will progress through three years of specialised study, engaging with compulsory modules such as 'Archaeology Today: Methods and Practice', 'Early Empires: Mesopotamia, Egypt and Rome', and 'Curatorship and Collections Management'. You will have opportunities for hands-on experience, including potential summer placements and a final-year dissertation project. You will graduate with the critical thinking, analytical, and practical skills necessary for a wide range of careers in museums, heritage organisations, archaeology, and academia.