Archaeology with Foundation

Program Overview

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Through a combination of lectures, seminars, fieldwork, and independent research, students develop critical thinking, analytical, and practical skills essential for undergraduate study and future careers in archaeology and related fields. The program emphasizes active learning, student engagement, and individualized support, preparing students for success in higher education and beyond.

Program Outline

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Archaeology with Foundation V400 - Durham University

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Degree Overview:

The Archaeology with Foundation V400 program at Durham University is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a successful undergraduate degree in archaeology.

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Objectives:

• Develop critical thinking and analytical skills
• Acquire a strong foundation in archaeological theory and methodology
• Gain practical experience through fieldwork and laboratory work
• Explore diverse archaeological cultures and societies

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Program Description:

This one-year foundation program provides a comprehensive introduction to archaeology, covering topics such as human evolution, prehistoric archaeology, historical archaeology, and environmental archaeology. Students will learn through a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, tutorials, and fieldwork. The program culminates in an independent research project, allowing students to demonstrate their knowledge and skills.

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Key Features:

• Small class sizes
• Individualized attention from experienced faculty
• Access to world-class facilities
• Strong emphasis on practical experience
• Opportunity to progress to a full undergraduate degree in archaeology

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Outline:

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Course Content:

• Human evolution
• Prehistoric archaeology
• Historical archaeology
• Environmental archaeology
• Archaeological theory and methodology
• Fieldwork and laboratory techniques
• Research methods

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Course Structure:

• 120 academic credits
• 20 hours of taught content per week
• 10 hours of tutorial/seminar support per week
• 100 hours of independent study per week
• Modules assessed through coursework, exams, and presentations

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Individual Modules:

• Concepts, Methods & Theories in Arts & Humanities: Introduces key concepts, methods, and theories in archaeology and related disciplines.
• Scholarship in Higher Education (Extended): Develops academic skills such as critical thinking, writing, and research.
• Advanced Scholarship in Higher Education for Arts, Business and Social Sciences: Further refines academic skills and prepares students for the demands of undergraduate study.

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Assessment:

• Coursework
• Exams
• Presentations
• Research project

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Assessment Criteria:

• Understanding of key concepts and theories
• Ability to apply knowledge to specific case studies
• Critical thinking and analysis
• Communication and presentation skills
• Research and writing skills

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Teaching:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Tutorials
• Fieldwork
• Laboratory work
• Independent study

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Teaching Methods:

• Interactive lectures
• Small group seminars
• Individualized tutorials
• Hands-on fieldwork and laboratory experience
• Independent research projects

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Faculty:

• Experienced and internationally recognized archaeologists

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Unique Approaches:

• Emphasis on active learning and student engagement
• Integration of theory and practice
• Opportunities for individual research and development

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Careers:

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Potential Career Paths:

• Archaeologist
• Museum curator
• Heritage manager
• Research scientist
• Educator
• Cultural resource management specialist

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Career Opportunities:

• Archaeological fieldwork and research
• Museum and heritage work
• Cultural resource management
• Education
• The program provides a strong foundation for a successful career in archaeology or a related field

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Other:

• The program is designed for students from under-represented groups in higher education.
• The program is highly competitive and places are awarded on the basis of academic merit and potential.
• The program provides a supportive and stimulating learning environment.

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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).