| UCAS code | F420 |
|---|---|
| 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 | F421 |
|---|---|
| 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 | F422 |
|---|---|
| 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 | F423 |
|---|---|
| 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
-
Unique course which provides training in the theory and practice of archaeological scientific methods to investigate the past
- Fieldwork opportunities in the UK or abroad
- Gain insight into the nuts and bolts of scientific approaches, their contexts of application, their strengths and limitations
- Learn how to interpret and critique datasets using both published datasets and those you will produce yourself over the course of your studies
- 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.
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
Entry requirements (typical offer)
| Qualification | Typical offer | Required subjects |
|---|---|---|
| A-Level | ABB-BBB | B in a Science subject* |
| IB | 32-30/655-555 | HL5 in a Science subject* |
| BTEC | DDM | Applicants studying a BTEC Extended Diploma are also required to achieve a B in a Science subject at GCE A-Level* |
| GCSE | C or 4 | English Language |
| Access to HE | 24 L3 credits at Distinction Grade and 21 L3 credits at Merit Grade | To include 12 L3 Credits at Merit Grade in an acceptable Science subject area. |
| T-Level | Merit | Applicants studying a T-Level will also require GCE A-Level grade B in a Science subject* |
| 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
*Accepted science subjects: Biology/Human Biology; Chemistry; Computing; Design and Technology; Electronics; Environmental Science; Environmental Studies; Geography; Geology; Life and Health Sciences (Double Award only); Marine Science; Maths/Pure Maths/Further Maths; Physical Education; Physics; Science (applied); Sport Science; Statistics.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| ARC1070 | Practical Skills in Archaeology | 30 |
| ARC1007 | Archaeological and Forensic Science Practicals | 15 |
| ARC1010 | Themes in World Archaeology | 15 |
| ARC1020 | Essential Archaeological Methods | 15 |
| ARC1040 | Artefacts and Materials | 15 |
Optional modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ARC1008 | Forensic Archaeology | 15 |
| ARC1030 | Investigating British Archaeology | 15 |
45 credits of compulsory modules, 75 credits of optional modules.
a - You must take either ARC2003 or ARC2004 (you can only take one of these modules).
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ARC2003 | Archaeological Fieldwork Project [See note a above] | 30 |
| ARC2004 | Archaeological Fieldschool [See note a above] | 30 |
| ARC2130 | Discovering the Past with Molecular Science | 15 |
Optional modules
b - You must take at least a total of 60 credits of 'Scientific' modules from across this and the final stage 'Scientific Modules' groups.
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Archaeological Science Stage 2 Scientific Modules 2024-5 [see note b above] | ||
| ARC2504 | Zooarchaeology | 15 |
| ARC2514 | Forensic Anthropology | 15 |
| ARC2512 | Palaeobotany | 15 |
| ARC2513 | Aerial Survey | 15 |
| Archaeological Science Stage 2 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 |
| 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 |
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.
60 credits of compulsory Dissertation, 60 credits of optional
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ARC3010 | Archaeological Science Dissertation | 45 |
| ARC3013 | Practicing Archaeological, Forensic and Heritage Science | 15 |
Optional modules
c - You can only take one module from either ARC3003 or ARC3136.
d - You must take at least a total of 60 credits of 'Scientific' modules from across this and the stage 2 'Scientific Modules' groups.
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ARC3003 | Professional Placement [see note c above] | 30 |
| ARC3136 | Advanced Fieldwork [see note c above] | 15 |
| Archaeological Science Final Stage Scientific Modules 2024-5 [see note d above] | ||
| ARC3510 | Experimental Approaches to Forensic and Archaeological Investigations | 15 |
| ARC3611 | Funerary Osteoarchaeology | 15 |
| ARC3133 | Digital Pasts | 15 |
| ARC3512 | Palaeobotany | 15 |
| ARC3513 | Aerial Survey | 15 |
| Archaeological Science Final Stage Option Modules 2024-5 | ||
| 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 |
| ARC3135 | Trading Places, Towns, Royal Palaces and Fortifications: Early Medieval Centres in Europe | 15 |
| ARC3136 | Advanced Fieldwork | 15 |
| ARC3400 | Understanding the Landscape of Roman Britain | 15 |
Course variants
UCAS code: F421
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: F422
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: F423
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, such as our Global 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. Should you want to progress onto a career in the Archaeology, Heritage or Museum sectors, the Archaeological Science degree at Exeter will equip you with the skills which you will need to succeed. You will have the opportunity to progress to a wide range of careers in areas, such as archaeological research and consultancy, conservation, local government planning, commercial labs and units, education, business, finance and defence.
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:
- Bioarchaeology
- Experimental Archaeology
- International Relations
- Classics and Ancient History
- Heritage Management
