Archaeology

Program Overview

The BA Archaeology (Hons) at Queen's University Belfast provides a comprehensive exploration of human history through archaeological evidence. Students gain hands-on experience, develop theoretical knowledge, and undertake a research project in their chosen area of interest. The program offers global learning opportunities, a range of assessment methods, and prepares graduates for careers in the heritage sector and beyond.

Program Outline

BA Archaeology (Hons) - Queen's University Belfast

Degree Overview:

The BA Archaeology (Hons) at Queen's University Belfast offers a comprehensive exploration of the human past from a social sciences and humanities perspective. Students gain hands-on experience with archaeological materials, fieldwork opportunities, and international field trips. This program aims to develop a holistic understanding of past societies and their development through the lens of archaeological evidence, ranging from artifacts and monuments to landscapes.

Outline:

• Year 1: Introduction to world archaeology, archaeological fieldwork techniques, European prehistory, and historical archaeology in a global context.
• Year 2: Deeper exploration of themes introduced in Year 1, development of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, including preparation for the dissertation in Year 3.
• Year 3: Students undertake a substantial research project on a chosen topic related to their area of interest within archaeology.

Assessment:

A range of assessment methods are used depending on the learning outcomes of each module, including coursework, written assignments, examinations, and practical assessments. Each individual module outline details the specific assessment criteria and methods.

Teaching:

Teaching methods are diverse and include lectures, seminars, tutorials, fieldwork sessions, and laboratory work. Students benefit from a world-class library, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and the expertise of internationally renowned academics.

Careers:

Graduates of the program have a wide range of career options within the heritage sector and beyond, including positions in commercial archaeology, survey, heritage management, museum curation, education, research, and various industries and roles requiring historical and scientific knowledge, analytical and research skills, and effective communication and collaboration abilities.

Other:

• Students can undertake an optional additional year of study either abroad or within a UK workplace placement.
• The program emphasizes global learning opportunities through study abroad programs, international placements, and field trips.
• Students benefit from a dedicated student support system, including access to a personal tutor and various student support services.

Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

Northern Ireland (NI) 1 £4,750 Republic of Ireland (ROI) 2 £4,750 England, Scotland or Wales (GB) 1 £9,250 EU Other 3 £20,800 International £20,800 1EU citizens in the EU Settlement Scheme, with settled status, will be charged the NI or GB tuition fee based on where they are ordinarily resident. Students who are ROI nationals resident in GB will be charged the GB fee. 2 EU students who are ROI nationals resident in ROI are eligible for NI tuition fees. 3 EU Other students (excludes Republic of Ireland nationals living in GB, NI or ROI) are charged tuition fees in line with international fees. The tuition fees quoted above are for the 2024/25 academic year and are a guide only. In addition, all tuition fees will be subject to an annual inflationary increase in each year of the course. Fees quoted relate to a single year of study unless explicitly stated otherwise. Tuition fee rates are calculated based on a student’s tuition fee status and generally increase annually by inflation. How tuition fees are determined is set out in the Student Finance Framework. Additional course costs The cost of travel and entrance fees for one-day or half-day field trips across all academic years is included in the course fee, but students are expected to pay for subsistence costs. Participation in a four-week field excavation module at Stage 1 is a requirement of the programme. The School will cover the cost of transport to the site from the University, and will provide all necessary equipment for the excavation. Students are expected to supply their own waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear. At Stage 2 students may choose optional modules that have associated field trips costs ranging from £50 to £500. Alternative non-field based options are available at no cost. If students choose to take a supplementary Additional Year that incurs travel costs (either locally or abroad), they will be required to fund these. A limited amount of funding may be available to contribute towards these additional costs, if the placement takes place through a government student mobility scheme. All Students Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs which are not covered by tuition fees, which students will need to consider when planning their studies. Students can borrow books and access online learning resources from any Queen's library. If students wish to purchase recommended texts, rather than borrow them from the University Library, prices per text can range from £30 to £100. Students should also budget between £30 to £75 per year for photocopying, memory sticks and printing charges. Students undertaking a period of work placement or study abroad, as either a compulsory or optional part of their programme, should be aware that they will have to fund additional travel and living costs. If a programme includes a major project or dissertation, there may be costs associated with transport, accommodation and/or materials. The amount will depend on the project chosen. There may also be additional costs for printing and binding. Students may wish to consider purchasing an electronic device; costs will vary depending on the specification of the model chosen. There are also additional charges for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines. How do I fund my study? There are different tuition fee and student financial support arrangements for students from Northern Ireland, those from England, Scotland and Wales (Great Britain), and those from the rest of the European Union. Information on funding options and financial assistance for undergraduate students is available at www.qub.ac.uk/Study/Undergraduate/Fees-and-scholarships/. Scholarships Each year, we offer a range of scholarships and prizes for new students. Information on scholarships available. International Scholarships Information on scholarships for international students, is available at www.qub.ac.uk/Study/international-students/international-scholarships.