COURSE CURRICULUM

The Ancient History and Archaeology BA provides a broad and immersive exploration of past societies through both textual and material evidence. In the first year, students are introduced to Greek and Roman history, world archaeology from prehistory to the modern era, and key archaeological skills, supported by hands-on experience in a local fieldschool that brings excavation and heritage interpretation to life. The second year deepens subject knowledge through core training in historical sources, archaeological theory, and fieldwork, while a wide selection of option modules allows students to specialise in areas such as Roman religion, the Ancient Near East, prehistoric Britain, heritage skills, and environmental archaeology. Students also encounter primary sources in translation and develop analytical skills essential for both disciplines. In the final year, students undertake a substantial dissertation in either Ancient History or Archaeology, drawing on both types of evidence. They further tailor their degree through advanced optional modules on topics such as divination in the Greek world, Late Antique North Africa, human skeletal analysis, zooarchaeology, classical reception, and the archaeology of colonialism. Throughout the program, fieldwork, small-group teaching, and practical training support the development of critical thinking, research skills, and a deep understanding of ancient cultures.