Studying Archaeology

Archaeology is a broad subject, and an exciting and diverse discipline, perfect for all-rounders, archaeology enthusiasts, and students interested in areas as diverse as human history and pre-history, ancient civilisations, and scientific methods and approaches. Our programmes provide the opportunity to learn a broad range of skills training, from osteology, geochemistry and the conservation of archaeological objects, to museum presentation skills, survey and remote sensing techniques and applications for Geographic Information Systems. Modules build experience in a wide range of transferable skills from problem-solving, metadata analysis and information technology, to teamwork, public speaking, project planning and management, while opportunities for international fieldwork take our students around the world, from the Lebanon to Africa, and field visits introduce the rich and varied heritage of the North East and UK.

We offer a range of single and joint honours BA and BSc degrees that offer our students the ability to choose and develop pathways suited to their interests and career goals. Students learn about fieldwork, finds, historic buildings, scientific methods, archaeological theories, and computer techniques and how they all help us to understand the past and study a wide range of topics ranging from early human development to colonialism and slavery in the early modern world, from northern Europe to South Asia.

All our programmes stimulate and challenge our students to achieve their best in an inclusive and supportive community, where staff are dedicated to mentoring and supporting you on a one-to-one basis, guiding you to a successful graduation and to future employment or a continuing research career.

Employment and Careers

Our programmes are professionally accredited by the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists and provide a high level of skills-based training, relevant to employment in a thriving UK and international heritage sector. Year-with-placement options across all our programmes offer additional ways to enhance professional experience and skills; not least, the chance to apply for dedicated 9-12 month paid placements with our own commercial archaeology company Durham University Archaeological Services.

We have an excellent record for employability, with 90% of our graduates entering directly into employment or further study after graduation. Our graduates work in a vast range of employment sectors worldwide, from national and international heritage organisations, museums, environmental agencies, and commercial archaeological services and consultancies, to law and publishing, forensic science, teaching, tourism, and local and national government.