| UCAS code | V400 |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3 years |
| Entry year | 2025 |
| Campus | Streatham Campus |
| Discipline | Archaeology |
| Contact | Web: Enquire online |
| Typical offer | A-Level: ABB-BBB |
|---|---|
|
A-Level: BBC-BCC |
| UCAS code | V401 |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 years |
| Entry year | 2025 |
| Campus | Streatham Campus |
| Discipline | Archaeology |
| Contact | Web: Enquire online |
| Typical offer | A-Level: ABB-BBB |
|---|---|
|
A-Level: BBC-BCC |
| UCAS code | V402 |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 years |
| Entry year | 2025 |
| Campus | Streatham Campus |
| Discipline | Archaeology |
| Contact | Web: Enquire online |
| Typical offer | A-Level: ABB-BBB |
|---|---|
|
A-Level: BBC-BCC |
| UCAS code | V403 |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 years |
| Entry year | 2025 |
| Campus | Streatham Campus |
| Discipline | Archaeology |
| Contact | Web: Enquire online |
| Typical offer | A-Level: ABB-BBB |
|---|---|
|
A-Level: BBC-BCC |
Overview
- Learn important techniques and skills archaeologists use to engage with the past.
- Fieldwork opportunities in the UK or abroad; recent examples include excavations of prehistoric settlements in Kazakhstan and environmental archaeology of the Amazon basin.
- Tailor your degree to your areas of interest, such as exploring specific historical periods of cultures, or examining human bones and artefacts.
- Exeter is unique in its setting, surrounded by some of the country’s richest archaeological sites. We also have outstanding on-site facilities for practical work and research, including a variety of laboratories, and an extensive reference collection.
- Professional placement available in the UK or abroad.
Top 5 in the UK for Archaeology and Forensic Science
5th in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025
Top 50 in world subject rankings for Archaeology
QS World University Subject Rankings 2024
4th in the UK for internationally excellent Archaeology research
Based on research rated 4* and 3* in REF 2021
Applied experience and fieldwork opportunities in the UK and abroad
Top 5 in the UK for Archaeology and Forensic Science
5th in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025
Top 50 in world subject rankings for Archaeology
QS World University Subject Rankings 2024
4th in the UK for internationally excellent Archaeology research
Based on research rated 4* and 3* in REF 2021
Applied experience and fieldwork opportunities in the UK and abroad
Choosing to study a BA Archaeology at the University of Exeter has been one of the most successful decisions of my life.
I was born in Romania but completed an International Baccalaureate in Canada before choosing a university and it was a difficult decision for me. But what really stood out and made me certain of my decision was the world-class teaching provided by an array of lecturers with very different backgrounds coupled with the beautiful campus. On top of this, I have been able to be a part of amazing opportunities such as the internship at the Digital Humanities Lab and participate in field projects as part of my degree in the United States and Romania. I have been so pleased with what the university has to offer that I decided to continue my studies through a Masters in Roman Archaeology, which I am very excited to start next year.
Ciprian
BA Archaeology
Entry requirements (typical offer)
| Qualification | Typical offer | Required subjects |
|---|---|---|
| A-Level | ABB-BBB | n/a |
| IB | 32-30/655-555 | n/a |
| BTEC | DDM | n/a |
| GCSE | C or 4 | English Language |
| Access to HE | 24 L3 credits at Distinction Grade and 21 L3 credits at Merit Grade | N/A |
| T-Level | Merit | N/A |
| Contextual Offer | A-Level: BBC-BCC |
Specific subject requirements must still be achieved where stated above. Find out more about contextual offers. |
| Other accepted qualifications | ||
| English language requirements |
International students need to show they have the required level of English language to study this course. The required test scores for this course fall under Profile B2. Please visit our English language requirements page to view the required test scores and equivalencies from your country. |
|
NB General Studies is not included in any offer.
Grades advertised on each programme webpage are the typical level at which our offers are made and provide information on any specific subjects an applicant will need to have studied in order to be considered for a place on the programme. However, if we receive a large number of applications for the programme we may not be able to make an offer to all those who are predicted to achieve/have achieved grades which are in line with our typical offer. For more information on how applications are assessed and when decisions are released, please see: After you apply
Course content
The modules we outline here provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.
90 credits of compulsory modules, 30 credits of optional modules
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ARC1010 | Themes in World Archaeology | 15 |
| ARC1020 | Essential Archaeological Methods | 15 |
| ARC1030 | Investigating British Archaeology | 15 |
| ARC1040 | Artefacts and Materials | 15 |
| ARC1070 | Practical Skills in Archaeology | 30 |
Optional modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Archaeology Stage 1 BA Option Modules 2024-5 | ||
| ARC1080 | Archaeology and Heritage: Past and Futures | 15 |
| ARA1030 | Introduction to Islamic Archaeology | 15 |
30 credits of compulsory modules, 90 credits of optional modules.
a You must take either ARC2003 or ARC2004 (you cannot choose both).
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ARC2003 | Archaeological Fieldwork Project [See note a above] | 30 |
| ARC2004 | Archaeological Fieldschool [See note a above] | 30 |
Optional modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Archaeology Stage 2 BA Option Modules 2024-5 | ||
| ARA2014 | Regions and Empires in Islamic Archaeology | 15 |
| ARC2118 | Lords to Lepers: Medieval Social Worlds | 15 |
| ARC2124 | Giving and Taking: Anthropology and Archaeology of Circulation and Exchange | 15 |
| ARC2130 | Discovering the Past with Molecular Science | 15 |
| ARC2131 | Palaeolithic Archaeology of Homo Sapiens 100,000-12,000 BP | 15 |
| ARC2135 | Trading Places, Towns, Royal Palaces and Fortifications: Early Medieval Centres in Europe | 15 |
| ARC2400 | Understanding the Landscape of Roman Britain | 15 |
| ARC2504 | Zooarchaeology | 15 |
| ARC2512 | Palaeobotany | 15 |
| ARC2513 | Aerial Survey | 15 |
| ARC2514 | Forensic Anthropology | 15 |
Typically, any placement year will take place in Year 3. If you are not taking a placement year please see the Final Year modules for year 3.
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ARC3000 | Archaeological Dissertation | 30 |
Optional modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Archaeology Final Stage BA Option Modules 2024-5 | ||
| ARC3003 | Professional Placement | 30 |
| ARC3006A | Advanced Fieldschool | 15 |
| ARC3013 | Practicing Archaeological, Forensic and Heritage Science | 15 |
| ARC3136 | Advanced Fieldwork | 15 |
| ARC3118 | Lords to Lepers: Medieval Social Worlds | 15 |
| ARC3124 | Giving and Taking: Anthropology and Archaeology of Circulation and Exchange | 15 |
| ARC3131 | Palaeolithic Archaeology of Homo Sapiens 100,000-12,000 BP | 15 |
| ARC3133 | Digital Pasts | 15 |
| ARC3135 | Trading Places, Towns, Royal Palaces and Fortifications: Early Medieval Centres in Europe | 15 |
| ARC3400 | Understanding the Landscape of Roman Britain | 15 |
| ARC3510 | Experimental Approaches to Forensic and Archaeological Investigations | 15 |
| ARC3512 | Palaeobotany | 15 |
| ARC3513 | Aerial Survey | 15 |
| ARC3611 | Funerary Osteoarchaeology | 15 |
Course variants
UCAS code: V401
Our four-year ‘with Study Abroad’ degree, offers you the possibility of spending your third year abroad, studying with one of our many partner universities.
Why Study Abroad?
Living and studying in a different country is an exciting experience that broadens your academic and cultural horizons, as well as giving you the opportunity to widen your circle of friends. Students who have studied abroad demonstrate initiative, independence, motivation and, depending on where they stay, may also have gained a working knowledge of another language – all key qualities that employers are looking for in today’s competitive employment environment.
Where can I Study Abroad?
We have partnership arrangements with many prestigious institutions across the globe. Exactly where you can apply to study will depend on the subjects you are studying at Exeter. For a full list please visit the Study Abroad website.
Does it count towards my degree?
Credit for academic work during your year abroad is arranged by agreement between the University of Exeter and the host institution. These marks are then translated back into your degree at Exeter. If you are Studying Abroad for a semester or full year, your time abroad will count toward your final degree. Please refer to your Study Abroad co-ordinator for further details.
How does it affect my tuition fee and funding?
For the year that you spend studying abroad you will pay a significantly reduced tuition fee to Exeter, but nothing to your host university – for more information visit our fees pages. If you were previously eligible, you will continue to receive a maintenance loan whilst on your Study Abroad year.
UCAS code: V402
Our four-year ‘with Employment Experience’ degree, offers you the possibility of spending your third year carrying out a graduate-level work placement or placements within the UK as part of your degree.
Why choose to include Employment Experience?
Undertaking graduate-level work during your degree unlocks a world of experience that allows you to develop essential employability and interpersonal skills that relate to your degree and future career. A work placement will dramatically boost your confidence, enhance your CV and develop graduate level skills and competencies that employers are looking for.
Where will I do my work placement?
The sector you choose to work within is very much your choice as you will be responsible for finding and organising your placement. We will provide plenty of guidance and support during your first and second years which will prepare you to research and apply for placements. Ultimately, the university will give final approval to your placement to make sure you have a valuable experience.
How does it affect my tuition fees and funding?
For your ‘Year In Industry’ you will pay a significantly reduced tuition fee to Exeter – for more information visit our fees pages. If you were previously eligible, you will continue to receive a maintenance loan whilst on your year of work placement/s.
Find out more
Visit our website to learn more about employment experience opportunities.
UCAS code: V403
Our four-year ‘with Employment Experience Abroad’ degree, offers you the possibility of spending your third year abroad, carrying out a graduate-level work placement or placements as part of your degree.
Why choose to include Employment Experience Abroad?
Spending up to a year living and working in a different country is an exciting experience that broadens your academic and cultural horizons, as well as giving you the opportunity to widen your circle of friends. By carrying out a graduate-level work placement or placements abroad you can demonstrate to employers your adaptability, cultural awareness, independence and resourcefulness and, depending on where you stay, may also have gained a working knowledge of another language.
Where will I do my work placement?
The sector and country you choose to work within is very much your choice as you will be responsible for finding and organising your placement. We will provide plenty of guidance and support during your first and second years which will prepare you to research and apply for placements. Ultimately, the university will give final approval to your placement to make sure you have a valuable experience.
How does it affect my tuition fee?
For your ‘Year In Industry’ you will pay a significantly reduced tuition fee to Exeter – for more information visit our fees pages. If you were previously eligible, you will continue to receive a maintenance loan whilst on your year of work placement/s.
Is the placement paid?
You will be paid in accordance with the rules of the country you work in and there may be visa restrictions or requirements which you need to consider when applying.
Find out more
Visit our website to learn more about employment experience opportunities.
Fees
Tuition fees for 2025 entry
UK students: £9,535 per year
International students: £24,700 per year
Scholarships
The University of Exeter has many different scholarships available to support your education, including £5 million in scholarships for international students applying to study with us in the 2025/26 academic year, such as our Exeter Excellence Scholarships*.
Financial support is also available for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, lower income households and other under-represented groups to help them access, succeed and progress through higher education.
* Terms and conditions apply. See online for details.
Learning and teaching
How will I learn?
You will be taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials, field trips, and computer-led learning, led by internationally respected academics at the forefront of research. As well as a considerable self-guided study and research focus, you will be encouraged to complete group tasks. You will develop a range of skills of analysis and interpretation as well as a wide range of transferable skills, both practical and intellectual.
Will I get practical experience?
You will carry out a large amount of practical work, as you complete assignments and put into practice different archaeological and scientific techniques. We frequently employ experiments in our teaching about ancient technologies (e.g. flint knapping, pot making, bronze smelting and casting). Our students complete at least four weeks’ practical work, usually during the first summer vacation, and we have excellent provision of technical equipment for field study, including GPS, total station theodolite and geophysical equipment.
Teaching hours
You will have between 1 and 3 hours of teaching per module per week and will need to allow for additional hours of private study. You should expect your total workload to average about 40 hours per week during term time, with at least 10 hours of this being contact time with staff.
Facilities
We have outstanding facilities that include: experimental archaeology laboratories; clean lab with fume cupboards for chemical work; a landscape archaeology project office, complete with giant scanner for maps and plans; microscope room equipped with high-spec microscopes and image processing facilities; a kiln room for ceramics and other experimental purposes; wet labs for artefact and environmental sample processing; sets of high and low-power teaching microscopes and state-of-the-art surveying equipment (including resistivity equipment, magnetometer, differential and hand-held GPS and total station theodolite and geophysical equipment). We also have extensive reference collections of artefacts, human skeletons, animal bones and plant remains.
Research-led teaching
Our teaching is inspired by the latest research, ensuring lectures are cutting-edge and you will benefit from access to the latest thinking, equipment and resources. All staff teach third year options, which are linked to their own area of research, which include topics such as bioarchaeology and Egyptology. You will be encouraged to participate in research projects and be able to choose a dissertation topic that contributes to original research to a project.
Academic support
All students have a Personal Tutor who is available for advice and support throughout your studies. You will also benefit from our first-year tutorial system, which will support you with your study methods and core skills. There are also several services on campus where you can get advice and information, including the Students’ Guild Advice Unit.
Assessment
You will be assessed by a variety of methods. Some modules require you to sit exams, whilst others are assessed by essays and projects. Practical modules are examined by the preparation of written reports, portfolios of work, oral presentations, practical assignments, fieldwork notebooks, or take-away papers to allow time for research and perhaps appropriate field or museum visits.
You must pass your first year in order to progress to the second year: these results do not count towards your degree classification. The assessments in the second year, year abroad (if applicable) and final year will contribute to your final degree classification.
Optional modules outside of this course
Each year, if you have optional modules available, you can take up to 30 credits in a subject outside of your course. This can increase your employability and widen your intellectual horizons.
Proficiency in a second subject
If you complete 60 credits of modules in one of the subjects below, you may have the words 'with proficiency in [e.g. Social Data Science]' added to your degree title when you graduate.
- A Foreign Language
- Data Science
- Entrepreneurship
- Innovation
- Law (Penryn Campus only)
- Leadership
- Management
- Social Data Science
Fieldwork
Fieldwork is an essential part of our undergraduate Archaeology courses and you will have the opportunity to attend regular trips to museums, archives and archaeological sites.
All students have the opportunity to spend time in the field, usually over the summer between the first and second year. This will often take place on a university-led excavation, but students may also register on approved external digs.
Excavation may take you far from home, or just around the corner; over recent years Exeter students have experienced fieldwork in as diverse locations as Argentina, Sri Lanka, Kazakhstan, South Dakota,Texas, Hungary and here in Devon. In some cases, fieldwork may consist of archaeological work in a museum rather than excavation.
Your future
Employer-valued skills this course develops
Archaeology combines humanities and scientific disciplines, providing good opportunities to develop the skills that are attractive to employers. This course is designed to develop your skills of analysis, assessment and interpretation, as well as the production of written and oral reports. Teamwork, problem solving, analysis, research, presentation and organisational skills are all developed through a programme that is both practical and theoretical. Your employability skills are also enhanced through a range of careers initiatives we offer that are specific to the profession, including ‘professional modules’ involving work experience.
Career support
We have a dedicated, award-winning Careers Service, ensuring you have access to careers advisors, mentors and the tools you need to succeed in finding employment in your chosen field on graduation. The Exeter Award and the Exeter Leaders Award schemes encourage you to participate in employability related workshops, skills events, volunteering and employment which will contribute to your career decision-making skills and success in the employment market. Our graduates compete very successfully in the employment market, with many employers targeting the University when recruiting new graduates.
Career paths
The broad-based skills acquired during your degree will give you an excellent grounding for a wide variety of careers, not only those related to archaeology but also in wider fields such as teaching, media and business.
An Ofsted report on recurrent funding for 2021/22 describes Archaeology graduates as “crucial to the sustainability of the UK workforce in development-led archaeology”. It highlights the national shortage of archaeologists due to the huge increase in major construction projects with field workers being recruited abroad to make up the deficit.
They’ve highlighted Archaeology as a recognised construction skill and a “necessary part of the supply chain for the delivery of housing and infrastructure development, for instance HS2, Crossrail, and the A14 corridor project.” It’s also essential to meet planning policy requirements, particularly when it comes to delivering sustainable development. Archaeology skills are recognised by the UK Government as being subject to a shortage, with archaeology jobs currently listed on the UK Shortage Occupation List.
One comment in the report also noted that “at least 50 per cent of exiting archaeology undergraduates will need to enter the profession to feed the current forecast pipeline of work. Actual numbers of archaeology graduates currently entering the profession are close to 10 per cent of the annual cohort […] currently 90 per cent of professional archaeologists in the UK have at least one undergraduate qualification in the subject. There is currently no alternative training pipeline for this kind of expertise on the scale required.”
Examples of roles recent graduates are now working as include:
- Anatomical Pathologist Technologist
- Archaeological Researcher
- Campaigns Officer
- Intern Ranger
- Field Archaeologist
- Museum Digital Archive Assistant
- Quality Coordinator
- Rural Policy Adviser
- Site Assistant
- Solutions Coordinator
Further study
Many of our students successfully progress to postgraduate study or training in a range of areas. Recent graduates have progressed to postgraduate courses in:
- Anthrozoology
- Experimental Archaeology
- International Relations
- Classics and Ancient History
- Heritage Management
