Archaeology BA (Hons) at University of Liverpool

Develop an understanding of archaeological methods and theory to unlock some of the most fundamental questions about human life, from the emergence of our species until the 20th century.

Studying human, animal and plant remains, artefacts and art, you will learn how to reconstruct the past from its material remains. You will investigate the major social, economic, religious and technological developments in long-term human history, from Britain to South Africa and Spain to China, and learn how to carry out archaeological excavation and survey.

Year One modules provide you with a broad introduction to both archaeological methods and the archaeology of particular periods and places around the world, including: the principles and practice of archaeology, the origins of humanity, the ancient world (Greece, Italy and the Near East) and the archaeological history of the UK.

Years Two and Three build on this foundation through a wide range of lecture, laboratory and practical skills-based modules from which you can choose.
This programme requires four weeks of archaeological experience (fieldwork and/or museum-based work) usually spread over Years One and Two. Year One fieldwork usually consists of participation in the department field school. 

In Year Two, many students work on overseas research excavations, currently these are based in Greece, Turkey, Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Zambia as well as in the UK.

Career prospects

Archaeology, Classics, Ancient History and Egyptology degrees from Liverpool provide you with a rigorous training experience that produces graduates with an unusual breadth of knowledge.

Our graduates are well equipped for a wide variety of careers in fields as diverse as journalism, heritage management, law, the civil service, teaching, business, IT and tourism. You can also go on to undertake further study and research degrees and our past students have had marked success in gaining employment in universities and major museums, locally, nationally and internationally.

Skills for success

Archaeology, Classics and Egyptology students can take part in our ‘Skills for Success’ programme; a series of workshops and events that enable you to gain essential life, academic and employability skills. You will learn about time management, team building, problem solving, communication and many more practical tips. And you will be able to put these skills into practice too, by making use of our many work placement opportunities.

Competition for graduate careers is now very fierce in the UK, with many more graduates in the market than was the case a number of years ago. As a result, employers are looking for more than just a good degree from a good university. They are looking for potential employees who have a real understanding of areas of work and have made significant efforts to research into and develop skills that may be useful in the workplace.

‘Skills for Success’ includes an employability programme designed by specialist careers and employability advisers, helping you to build up your portfolio of skills and knowledge to enhance your job prospects and develop a successful career after you graduate.

Recent employers

• The National Trust
• English Heritage
• Civil Service
• Archaeology South East
• Police Service
• Apple.