BA History and Archaeology

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Exeter

Program Overview

The BA History and Archaeology at the University of Exeter gives students the opportunity to explore the human past by combining historical research with archaeological discovery. This course is ideal for students who are curious about how societies, cultures, and communities developed over time and want to learn how historians and archaeologists use written records, artefacts, and physical evidence to understand the past. Students develop strong research, analytical, and practical skills while exploring themes across history, archaeology, heritage, and material culture.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
In the first year, students build a strong foundation in both History and Archaeology while learning how to investigate the past through different types of evidence. Modules such as Becoming a Historian: Core, Archaeological Fieldschool, Investigating Archaeology, and Understanding Medieval and Early Modern History introduce students to historical methods, archaeological techniques, fieldwork practices, and the study of societies across different periods.

Year 2:
The second year allows students to develop more specialised knowledge and gain deeper experience in archaeological research and historical analysis. Through modules such as Research in Archaeology and Archaeological Fieldwork Project, students explore how archaeological evidence is collected and interpreted, while optional modules including Analysing Artefacts and Materials, Archaeology of the Americas, Sustainability and Collapse in Past Societies, and Doing History in the Digital Age help students examine past societies from different perspectives.

Year 3:
In the final year, students develop advanced research skills through specialist modules and an independent dissertation project. Modules such as Archaeological Dissertation, Practising Archaeological, Forensic and Heritage Science, Monumental Changes: Neolithic and Early Bronze Age Britain and Ireland, and Things and Us: Ancient and Contemporary Material Culture allow students to explore complex historical and archaeological questions while applying their research skills.

Optional Study Abroad / Employment Experience:
Students can choose to add a Study Abroad year or an Employment Experience year, extending the degree to four years. These options provide opportunities to gain international experience or professional workplace exposure, helping students apply their academic knowledge, build confidence, and develop skills for future careers.

Focus Areas

Archaeological fieldwork, historical research methods, heritage studies, material culture, artefact analysis, ancient and modern societies, archaeological science, digital approaches to history, cultural change, independent research, and interpretation of evidence.

Learning Outcomes

Students develop the ability to investigate and interpret historical and archaeological evidence, conduct independent research, analyse information critically, and communicate ideas clearly. The course also strengthens practical skills in fieldwork, teamwork, problem-solving, project management, and the use of research methods that are valuable in many professional environments.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The programme develops transferable skills in research, analysis, communication, and evidence-based decision-making that are highly valued by employers. Students gain knowledge and experience relevant to careers in archaeology, heritage, museums, education, research, cultural organisations, and other sectors while benefiting from the University of Exeter’s employability support and professional development opportunities.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The University of Exeter has a strong reputation as a leading UK university with excellent links to employers and research communities. Graduates from History and Archaeology programmes use their skills in a wide range of areas including museums, heritage organisations, publishing, education, government, research, business, and the charity sector.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students studying BA History and Archaeology at the University of Exeter gain practical experience by working with historical sources, archaeological evidence, artefacts, and fieldwork techniques. The course combines classroom learning with hands-on activities, helping students develop skills in excavation, artefact analysis, heritage research, digital methods, and interpreting evidence from the past. Students benefit from access to specialist archaeology facilities, digital research tools, laboratories, and collections that support practical learning and independent research.

Through fieldwork projects, laboratory-based activities, research assignments, and digital heritage work, students learn how professional historians and archaeologists investigate, preserve, and present the past. Exeter provides access to advanced facilities and equipment that allow students to gain experience with modern approaches used in archaeology, heritage management, and historical research.

Key experiential learning opportunities include:

Archaeological Fieldwork and Excavation Experience: Students take part in practical fieldwork activities where they learn excavation techniques, recording methods, survey approaches, and how archaeologists collect and interpret evidence from historical sites.
Experimental Archaeology Facilities: Students explore past technologies, materials, and methods through practical research activities that help them understand how people lived and created objects in different historical periods.
Bioarchaeology Laboratory: Students gain experience analysing biological remains, including human and animal remains, to understand aspects of past populations, health, diet, and lifestyles.
SHArD 3D Laboratory (Science, Heritage and Archaeology Digital Lab): Students use digital technologies such as 3D scanning, digital microscopy, imaging tools, and 3D modelling techniques to analyse, preserve, and present archaeological materials.
Digital Humanities Lab: Students develop digital research skills through access to facilities for digitisation, digital preservation, multimedia projects, digital exhibitions, photography, 3D scanning, 3D printing, and audio-visual production.
Archaeological Research Laboratories: Students work with specialist equipment and facilities used for archaeological analysis, including microscopy, environmental sample processing, scientific investigation, and surveying equipment.
Artefact and Reference Collections: Students work with archaeological collections, including artefacts, animal bones, and plant remains, allowing them to develop practical skills in identifying and interpreting physical evidence.
University Library and Special Collections: Students have access to extensive academic resources, archives, manuscripts, and specialist collections that support historical research, assignments, and dissertation projects.
Research Projects and Dissertation: In the final year, students complete independent research projects where they apply historical and archaeological methods, use specialist resources, and develop their own investigations with guidance from academic experts.

Progression & Future Opportunities

A BA History and Archaeology degree at the University of Exeter equips students with a powerful combination of historical knowledge, archaeological expertise and transferable skills such as research, critical thinking, communication and problem-solving. Graduates are prepared for a wide range of careers across heritage, culture, education, research, public service and other sectors where the ability to analyse evidence and understand the past is highly valued.

Students receive dedicated support from Exeter’s Career Zone, which helps them identify career opportunities, develop employability skills, improve CVs and interview techniques, and connect with employers through career events and work experience opportunities. The university’s strong links with research centres, heritage organisations and cultural institutions also allow students to gain practical experience that strengthens their career prospects.

Key future opportunities include:

Graduate career pathways: Graduates can explore careers such as Archaeologist, Heritage Officer, Museum Curator, Archivist, Historical Researcher, Teacher, Cultural Programme Coordinator, Public Sector Officer, Publishing Professional and Historical Consultant.
University employability support: The University of Exeter’s Career Zone provides personalised careers advice, skills workshops, employer connections, internship opportunities and resources to help students successfully transition from university into employment.
Professional and industry connections: Students benefit from Exeter’s research expertise and connections with heritage and cultural organisations, along with opportunities to gain practical experience through archaeological fieldwork, working with collections and engaging with historical research projects.
Employment outcomes: The analytical, research and communication skills developed through this degree are valued by employers across heritage, education, government, research, media, business and cultural sectors. Graduates are equipped with skills that support long-term career flexibility and progression.
Long-term degree value: Studying at the University of Exeter provides graduates with a respected qualification from a globally recognised institution. The university’s reputation in History and Archaeology enhances the value of the degree and supports graduates when applying for competitive roles or further study opportunities.
Graduation outcomes: Graduates leave with the ability to research independently, interpret historical evidence, manage information, present ideas clearly and approach complex problems critically — skills that are highly transferable across many professional environments.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BA History and Archaeology, students can continue their studies through postgraduate programmes such as an MA in History, Archaeology, Heritage Studies, Museum Studies, Public History or related specialist areas. Those interested in advanced research can progress to a PhD, while students seeking professional specialisation can pursue further qualifications in areas such as teaching, archives, conservation or heritage management.