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Home » Courses » BSc (Hons) Archaeology

BSc (Hons) Archaeology

BSc Archaeology builds on existing archaeological knowledge but explores themes in more depth, covering environmental and experimental archaeology, world cultures, ethnographies and exploring philosophical interpretations and archaeological theories. The BSc also includes the opportunity to undertake self directed dissertation research on a topic or site of your choosing.

WHY CHOOSE THIS COURSE?

BSc (Hons) Archaeology is a one year top-up course, which can be studied after completing a foundation degree. You will be given guidance on opportunities for a strong practical uptake in fieldwork including the use of digital techniques, museum work, laboratory analysis and artefact care. You will also explore features such as the diversity and key developments of world archaeology, environmental archaeology and the practical experience of pollen analysis, as well as organising a public exhibition.

The course is based in Cornwall with access to coastline, beaches and moorlands which is particularly beneficial for field trips to local sites in the South West. Students will receive a good grounding in world archaeology, scientific archaeology and environmental archaeology as well as archaeology and modern popular media. This programme also has excellent employer links and a good record for progression to employment and postgraduate research.

Apply for this course

Start date: 22/09/2025

Course code
HEARCHB25T
Level
Level 6
Location
Truro College
Duration
1 year
Qualification
Bachelor’s Degree
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Top Course Highlights

Subject specialist lecturers

Diverse curriculum offering

Excellent sector and industry connections

Wealth of knowledge of funding, practical and career focused opportunities

A painting of a beach with a cliff.

Broad Curriculum

An exceptionally broad curriculum that allows you to study a diverse range of content including world archaeology, current debates in archaeology, heritage conservation, experimental archaeology and event management.

FdSc Archaeology

Excellent Employer Links

Guest speakers, skills workshops and opportunities to undertake voluntary fieldwork opportunities with local organisations and groups.

Geology & Environmental Sci 107

Practical Experience

Provides guidance on opportunities for hands-on practical experience in a range of archaeological and heritage skills.

WHAT WILL I LEARN?

The BSc course will build on existing archaeological knowledge but explore them in more depth. The course investigates current understanding and trends in world archaeology, as well as hominid evolution, ethnographic studies and experimental archaeology. The programme delves into the more philosophical theories associated with site, artefacts and cultural interpretations, and explores the wider implication of heritage conservation techniques and advances in environmental archaeology. The year is concluded with the dissertation module where students will present research on a site or topic of their choice with a critically analytical perspective and archaeological theory.

Programme Quality Handbook 2024-25

WHERE WILL IT TAKE ME?

BSc Archaeology will prepare learners for a wide range of diverse careers in archaeology, but also the wider heritage sector and beyond in fields such as education, research or publicity. Future careers include:

  • Academic researcher
  • Archaeologist
  • Conservator
  • Heritage manager
  • Historic buildings inspector/conservation officer
  • Museum education officer
  • Museum/gallery curator
  • Museum/gallery exhibitions officer

Wider employment opportunities include:

  • Archivist
  • Cartographer
  • Higher education lecturer
  • Records manager
  • Social researcher
  • Tourism officer
  • Mine searches
  • Surveyor / Survey equipment sales
  • Laboratory work / Laboratory supplies

Assessment Arrangements

Coursework – 68%

Exam/Test – 40%

Practical – 12%

Entry Requirements

  • A relevant foundation degree, HND or equivalent Level 5 qualification.
  • Applicants will be interviewed to assess the experience/capabilities for successful entry and completion of the course.

Additional Information

UCAS Course Code: V401

Duration : One year full time, two years part time

Location: Truro Campus

The Awarding Body for this course is the University of Plymouth

Specific Modules of study include:

  • World Archaeology
  • Experimental Archaeology and Event Management
  • Current Debates in Archaeology
  • Heritage Conservation and Environmental Archaeology
  • Dissertation

Meet the staff, tour the campus and find out about life as a student at one of the best colleges in the country.

What you could earn

  • Counsellors
  • Welfare Professionals
  • Natural and Social Science Professionals
  • Social and Humanities Scientists
  • Physical Scientists
  • Social Workers
  • Environmental Health Professionals
  • Conservation Professionals
Potential Salary

£29,114

Entry Level Salary

£9,236

Average Salary

£22,123

Annual openings in Cornwall

8

Potential Salary

£40,318

Entry Level Salary

£15,134

Average Salary

£29,948

Annual openings in Cornwall

8

Potential Salary

£40,575

Entry Level Salary

£22,218

Average Salary

£40,575

Annual openings in Cornwall

5

Potential Salary

£50,769

Entry Level Salary

£17,278

Average Salary

£30,013

Annual openings in Cornwall

7

Potential Salary

£71,640

Entry Level Salary

£24,382

Average Salary

£42,352

Annual openings in Cornwall

13

Potential Salary

£51,259

Entry Level Salary

£21,243

Average Salary

£38,074

Annual openings in Cornwall

27

Potential Salary

£62,130

Entry Level Salary

£20,604

Average Salary

£34,160

Annual openings in Cornwall

1

Potential Salary

£48,863

Entry Level Salary

£19,545

Average Salary

£28,887

Annual openings in Cornwall

9

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