COURSE CURRICULUM

BA Archaeology and Anthropology at University of Reading explores humanity from its earliest ancestors to contemporary societies by combining archaeological investigation with anthropological study. In the first year, students develop a broad understanding of human evolution, ancient civilizations, social anthropology, forensic anthropology, and archaeological methods. Core modules examine the human journey over six million years, archaeological field and laboratory techniques, burial practices and skeletal analysis, contemporary cultures and societies, and the rise of major empires including Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Rome. Optional modules allow students to explore museum studies, geography, landscapes, natural resources, and cultural perspectives on space and place. In the second year, students gain practical experience through archaeological field school training, ethnographic research methods, and the study of archaeology’s role in society and heritage. They can further specialize in topics such as sustainability and environmental change, prehistoric and medieval Europe, Roman entertainment, forensic archaeology, bioarchaeology, museum learning, collections management, political geography, and professional placements. The field school provides valuable hands-on excavation experience, including surveying, geophysics, finds processing, and site recording. In the final year, students undertake an independent archaeological dissertation and choose from advanced modules covering heritage and cultural property, biological anthropology, food and society, Mesopotamian civilization, early European archaeology, medieval towns, urban development, African development, corporate social responsibility, and professional placements. Throughout the degree, students develop a diverse range of skills including excavation techniques, ethnographic research, skeletal analysis, laboratory investigation, data interpretation, critical thinking, project management, communication, and independent research. The programme draws upon scientific, social scientific, and humanities approaches to examine topics such as migration, identity, environmental change, sustainability, health, inequality, culture, and human adaptation. Graduates are well prepared for careers in archaeology, museums, heritage management, cultural resource management, forensic investigation, community development, environmental consultancy, research, education, public policy, international development, and other professions that value analytical thinking, fieldwork experience, cultural awareness, and evidence-based problem solving.