BA Archaeology

Students on the BA Archaeology at the University of Exeter gain valuable practical experience by combining classroom learning with hands-on archaeological investigation, fieldwork and scientific analysis. The programme allows students to work with real archaeological materials, develop excavation and research skills, and use specialist equipment similar to that used in professional archaeology and heritage settings. Through field schools, laboratory sessions, digital research activities and independent projects, students build the practical and analytical skills needed for careers in archaeology, heritage and related areas.

The programme provides practical learning opportunities through specialist facilities, field experience and research activities:

• Gain hands-on excavation experience through the Archaeological Fieldschool and Archaeological Fieldwork Project, where students learn professional excavation methods, recording techniques and approaches to analysing archaeological sites.

• Take part in fieldwork opportunities in different locations, gaining experience in archaeological surveying, excavation and interpreting evidence from real sites.

• Develop laboratory skills through the Experimental Archaeology Labs, where students explore ancient technologies and investigate how past communities produced tools, materials and objects.

• Work with archaeological materials in the Wet Labs, which support activities such as processing excavation finds, analysing samples and learning practical conservation techniques.

• Use the Bioarchaeology Lab to study human and animal remains, developing skills in analysing skeletal evidence, health patterns and past populations.

• Access the Science Heritage and Archaeology Digital (SHArD) 3D Laboratory, where students use advanced digital archaeology techniques such as 3D modelling, digital microscopy, X-ray imaging, micro-CT imaging, portable XRF analysis and drone survey technology.

• Develop digital research skills through the Digital Humanities Lab, exploring how technology can support archaeological research, documentation and heritage preservation.

• Learn archaeological surveying methods using specialist equipment such as GPS systems, total station theodolites, magnetometers and resistivity equipment for landscape and site investigation.

• Work with Exeter’s archaeological collections, including artefacts, animal bones and plant remains, allowing students to analyse real evidence from the past during practical classes and research projects.

• Strengthen research, teamwork and communication skills through seminars, presentations, group activities, practical assignments and the final-year dissertation.

• Gain experience connecting academic knowledge with real heritage environments through visits to museums, archives and archaeological sites.

A BA Archaeology degree from the University of Exeter prepares graduates for a variety of careers by combining practical archaeological training with research, scientific investigation and strong analytical skills. The programme helps students develop expertise in fieldwork, heritage, laboratory techniques and interpreting evidence, creating opportunities in archaeology, museums, heritage organisations, research and related sectors. Graduates can progress into roles such as Archaeologist, Heritage Consultant, Museum Professional, Researcher, Field Archaeologist, Teacher and Laboratory Scientist.

The programme supports students’ career development through professional training, employability support and opportunities to gain industry experience:

• Access support from the University of Exeter’s Careers Service, which provides careers guidance, one-to-one advice, mentoring, career resources, employer events and support with preparing for graduate employment.

• Develop career-ready skills through the Exeter Award and Exeter Leaders Award, which help students build confidence through workshops, volunteering, leadership activities and professional development opportunities.

• Gain professional experience through the Archaeology with Employment Experience pathway, which allows students to undertake a graduate-level work placement in the UK or overseas and apply their archaeological knowledge in a workplace environment.

• Benefit from professional recognition through links with organisations such as the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA) and University Archaeology UK (UAUK), supporting students who wish to pursue careers in the professional archaeology and heritage sectors.

• Access professional networks and resources through opportunities connected with archaeological organisations, helping students understand industry practices and career pathways.

• Develop transferable skills including research, problem-solving, critical analysis, teamwork, report writing, presentation skills and project management, which are valuable across many industries.

• Explore career opportunities with organisations and employers such as Cotswold Archaeology, Environment Agency, Exeter City Council, National Lottery Heritage Fund, Museum of London Archaeological Archive and House of Commons.

• Benefit from graduate career examples including roles such as Archaeologist, Excavation Assistant, Heritage Consultant, Museum Assistant, Field Surveyor, Laboratory Scientist, Business Support Manager and Primary Teacher.

• Build long-term career value through a degree that combines humanities, scientific methods and digital approaches, giving graduates skills that can be applied in archaeology as well as wider professional fields.

• Progress towards careers in commercial archaeology, heritage management, museums, conservation, education, research, government and environmental sectors.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing the BA Archaeology, graduates can continue their studies through postgraduate programmes in areas such as Archaeology, Bioarchaeology, Heritage Management, Experimental Archaeology, Forensic Anthropology, Classics and Ancient History, Environmental Studies and related research fields. Further study allows students to specialise in a particular area of interest and prepare for advanced careers in archaeological research, heritage conservation, museums, academia or professional consultancy.