Program Overview

The course covers a broad range of methods and techniques. In our well-equipped laboratories you can learn how to analyse the chemical composition of human and animal bones and discover what they reveal about past diets; in the field you can choose to work on sites in both Britain and overseas, and in the library, you can study archaeological periods ranging from the Palaeolithic (Old Stone Age), through Classical Greece to the medieval and post-medieval periods.

To make sure you leave no stone unturned during fieldwork, we have excellent field equipment, including a ground penetrating radar, magnetometers, magnetic susceptibility meters, differential GPS instruments and total stations. In addition, you will learn how to use industry standard computer software such as ArcGIS, Geoplot and AutoCAD. Our department has a geoarchaeological consultancy (ARCA), whose staff will also teach you. The consultancy offers valuable laboratory work experience and an opportunity to see how archaeological science is used in professional archaeology.

In Year 1 you dig into the theory and practice of archaeology, while covering the story of humanity. You explore the methods, theories and approaches that underpin archaeological science, as well as considering the importance of fieldwork and material culture.

In Year 2, you acquire the scientific skills that are key in archaeology, such as laboratory techniques and the use of Geographic Information Systems software. You also explore archaeological theory and consider how past climate and environmental change has affected ancient cultures. You then put these skills and knowledge to use in practical projects in your areas of interest, which may include human bioarchaeology (the study of human skeletal remains), geomatics and remote sensing, or geomorphology.

During Year 3, you write a dissertation based on a piece of applied scientific research that you carry out, usually in a laboratory and/or field setting. You can also branch out into examining the archaeology of the southern Caucasus, the Caribbean, as well as Europe and from a range of perspectives. These latter include the impact of the natural environement, religion, society and conflict.

The Department of Archaeology, Anthropology and Geography at the University of Winchester is a Registered Archaeological Organisation with the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA), a quality assurance scheme for professional practice in the field.

Many graduates have used the skills and knowledge gained on the course to pursue careers in professional archaeology, such as with an archaeological unit. Others work in the applied sciences, including in various types of laboratories, in environmental management and geomatics.

But with highly-prized key skills in areas such as time and project management, problem solving, teamwork, cultural awareness and the ability to express ideas clearly to a wide range of audiences you are able to explore non-vocational careers, too.
 
Find out more about the Department for Archaeology, Anthropology and Geography