Historical Archaeology

Program Overview

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The Historical Archaeology F411 program at Durham University is a three-year BA (Hons) degree that combines classroom learning with practical experience. Students develop a passion for studying history alongside archaeological training in historic-period material and visual culture, museum collections, buildings and landscapes, and world heritage. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and skills, with annual field schools and opportunities for professional accreditation. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in archaeology, teaching, research, and other industries.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

The Historical Archaeology F411 program at Durham University is a three-year BA (Hons) degree that delves into the material remains of the ancient, medieval, and modern worlds, with a specific focus on the last 600 years. This exciting program combines classroom learning with practical experience, offering students a unique opportunity to:

• Develop a passion for studying history alongside archaeological training in historic-period material and visual culture, museum collections, buildings and landscapes, and world heritage.
• Gain a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning and skills through a combination of modules from the Departments of Archaeology and History, complemented by other subject areas.
• Participate in annual field schools and explore archaeological sites and historic buildings in the UK and around the world.

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Outline:

The program is structured to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of historical archaeology through a diverse range of modules and practical experiences.

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Year 1:

• Core modules: Introduction to Archaeological Methods, Medieval to Modern World Archaeology, Archaeology Practicals, Historical Archaeology: Methods and Sources.
• Optional modules: Archaeology in Britain, Cities in Antiquity, Ancient Civilizations of the East, Discovering World Prehistory.
• Additional modules: Up to TWO modules from History or ONE module from any other department including Ancient History and Classics.

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Year 2:

• Core modules: Professional Training, Developing Archaeological Research, Themes in Historical Archaeology.
• Optional modules: Archaeology of Medieval and Post-Medieval Britain, Becoming Roman, Ancient Mediterranean Civilisations: East and West, Advanced Skills (Single or Double).
• Additional modules: Up to TWO modules from History, East Mediterranean in the Bronze Age.

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Year 3:

• Core modules: Archaeology Dissertation, Specialised Aspects in Archaeology.
• Optional modules: Current Archaeology, Advanced Professional Training, Interpreting Heritage, Museum Representation, Archaeology and Global Sustainable Development.
• Additional modules: Up to ONE module in History.
• Further modules: Up to ONE module in any other department or a language module.

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Assessment:

Students are assessed through a combination of coursework, traditional skills and presentations, hands-on practical exercises, including archaeological fieldwork, and an independent research dissertation in the final year.

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Teaching:

The program utilizes diverse teaching methods, including:

• Seminars: Fostering in-depth discussions and critical analysis.
• Tutorials: Offering one-on-one support and guidance.
• Practical classes: Engaging students in hands-on activities and skill development.
• Fieldwork: Providing real-world experience in archaeological excavations and research.

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Careers:

Graduates of this program are well-prepared for a diverse range of careers, including:

• Archaeology: Working in field projects, museums, heritage organizations, and government agencies.
• Teaching: Sharing their knowledge and passion for history and archaeology in educational settings.
• Research: Pursuing further academic studies and contributing to the field of historical archaeology.
• Other industries: Applying their transferable skills in areas such as law, publishing, forensic science, tourism, and local government.

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Other:

• CIfA Accreditation: Students can choose a CIfA-accredited pathway to gain professional status in the UK commercial archaeology sector.
• Small-group teaching: Enhances the learning experience and facilitates individualized attention.
• One-to-one support: Provided by personal academic advisors and supervisors.
• Extensive research seminars: Offer opportunities to engage with cutting-edge research and visiting scholars.

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Conclusion

The Historical Archaeology F411 program at Durham University offers a comprehensive and engaging learning experience for students interested in the material culture of the past. Its focus on interdisciplinary learning, practical experience, and career preparation makes it a valuable choice for aspiring archaeologists and historians.

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The tuition fees for 2025/26 academic year have not yet been finalised, they will be displayed here once approved. The tuition fees shown for home students are for one complete academic year of full time study and are set according to the academic year of entry. Fees for subsequent years of your course may rise in line with an inflationary uplift as determined by the government. The tuition fees shown for overseas and EU students are for one complete academic year of full time study, are set according to the academic year of entry, and remain the same throughout the duration of the programme for that cohort (unless otherwise stated).