University of Bradford

BSc (Hons) Archaeology

What you will study

All module information is for 2023 entry and is subject to change.

First-year

• Scientific Frameworks
• Themes in World Archaeology and Heritage
• Introduction to Archaeological Methods
• British Archaeology and Heritage
• Biological Anthropology: From Human Evolution to Forensic Anthropology
• Field Recording Skills

Second-year

Core

• Archaeological Practice
• Interpreting the Past
• Heritage Management with GIS

Option

• Understanding Artefacts
• Prehistoric Societies
• Celts, Anglo-Saxons and Vikings
• Bioarchaeology: Humans, Plants and Animals

Third-year

• Study Abroad or Placement Year

Final year

Core

• Dissertation
• Current Research in Archaeological Sciences
• Archaeology and Heritage in Contemporary Society

Option

• Advanced Archaeological Practice
• Bones, Bodies and Burials
• Landscapes, Climate and Society

Learning and assessment

Stage 1 introduces you to a range of archaeological periods, regions and materials, and the development of archaeology as a discipline. Practical modules such as Introduction to Archaeological Methods and Field Recording Skills allow you to handle real archaeological materials and explore methods of field survey and the principles of stratigraphy. Through the Scientific Frameworks module, you are also introduced to the main scientific techniques used in modern archaeology.

Stage 2 develops your critical thinking and offers an element of optionality in your studies. Participation in Archaeological Fieldwork is allocated by a CV and letter of application and allows first-hand experience of excavation and recording, enabling you to make your own decisions under supervision. Understanding Artefacts logically follows the excavation stage and demonstrates the processes needed to understand archaeological artefacts and how they inform wider archaeological debates. Heritage Management with GIS follows British Archaeology in examining the legal and financial context of the discipline.

Other optional modules complement the core modules examining ethical and scientific issues (Bioarchaeology: Humans, Plants and Animals) and cultural archaeology from the Palaeolithic to the Viking period (Prehistoric Societies; Celts, Anglo-Saxons and Vikings).

Stage 3 develops your critical thinking further, and allows greater self-learning through the Dissertation. Bones, Bodies and Burials builds on Biological Anthropology: From Human Evolution to Forensic Anthropology (stage 1) and Bioarchaeology: Humans, Plants and Animals and Interpreting Archaeology (stage 2) to permit the detailed study of human remains in their cultural context.

Assessment methods include:

• essays
• portfolios
• worksheets
• critiques
• laboratory reports
• group-work
• poster (in the placement year)
• oral presentations
• research designs
• reflective journals
• examinations

The research design and dissertation develop your ability to undertake independent research and plan this research effectively.

The University of Bradford honored with Queen’s Anniversary Prize for outstanding archaeology

We have been awarded a 2021 Queen's Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education for our world-leading work in developing archaeological technology and techniques and its influence on practice, policy, and society.

The prestigious accolade, which honors world-class excellence and achievement, is the highest form of national recognition that UK higher education institutions can achieve. The University has been honored for its leadership and innovation in pioneering the techniques, technology, and practices of archaeology both in the UK and worldwide.

Career prospects

Bradford archaeology graduates are highly sought after by employers. Part of that is down to a national shortage of archaeologists but another part is that Bradford has one of the world’s leading schools and a breadth of experience that spans over 40 years.

Almost half of our recent graduates have entered archaeologically-related careers – one of the highest rates in the UK.

Former students have become field archaeologists, cultural resource managers, university lecturers and even accountants.

Other career opportunities include computing, management, or teaching, and many areas where employers are looking for transferable skills and an analytical mind.

Many graduates choose to continue their education and enrol on taught Master’s or research degrees.

Career support

The University is committed to helping students develop and enhance employability and this is an integral part of many programmes. Specialist support is available throughout the course from Career and Employability Services including help to find part-time work while studying, placements, vacation work and graduate vacancies. Students are encouraged to access this support at an early stage and to use the extensive resources on the Careers website.

Discussing options with specialist advisers helps to clarify plans through exploring options and refining skills of job-hunting. In most of our programmes, there is direct input by Career Development Advisers into the curriculum or through specially arranged workshops.