Course Overview
Overview
The BSc route focuses on the science side of archaeology. Courses will cover subjects such as the origins of modern humans, ancient environments, bioarchaeology, Scottish archaeology and excavation and research skills.
In seeking to understand how ancient people lived their lives, structured their world, and engaged with their environment, archaeologists ask the big questions that can provide us with the tools to tackle modern day issues such the effects of climate change, designing the ‘perfect’ diet, or investigating the spread of epidemics.
You will develop the practical and research skills required to work as a professional archaeologist or heritage specialist, taught and inspired by experts who are internationally recognised leaders in their fields, with many links and projects in areas of special interest overseas, such as Alaska.
AT A GLANCE
| LEARNING MODE | On Campus Learning |
| DEGREE QUALIFICATION | BSc |
| DURATION | 48 months |
| STUDY MODE | Full Time |
What You'll Study
In year 1, Archaeology will occupy one quarter of your curriculum, and in year 2 it will occupy one half. You can then choose to specialise in archaeology in years 3 and 4 undertaking a Single Honours degree or you can continue studying Archaeology and another subject in a Joint Honours degree.
Compulsory Courses
- Professional Skills Part 1 (NT1001)
- Archaeology in Action: an Introduction (NT1003) – 15 Credit Points
- Caves to Kingdoms: an Introduction to Prehistoric Archaeology (NT1503) – 15 Credit Points
Optional Courses
Select a further 90 credit points from courses of choice.
Compulsory Courses
- Prehistoric Britain: from Boxgrove to Bede (NT2009) – 15 Credit Points
- Test Tubes and Trowels: an Introduction to Archaeological Science (NT2006) – 15 Credit Points
- Past Lives (NT2508) – 15 Credit Points
- The Archaeology of The North: Lifeways & Cultural Change (NT2505) – 15 Credit Points
Optional Courses
Select a further 60 credit points from courses of choice.
Compulsory Courses
- Professional Archaeology i: Field Methods (NT3010) – 15 Credit Points
- Archaeological Fieldwork Portfolio (NT3011) – 15 Credit Points
- Archaeological Research Project Part i (NT3512) – 15 Credit Points
- Professional Archaeology II: Post – Excavation Analysis and Employment (NT3514) – 15 Credit Points
Optional Courses
Plus select 30 credit points from Level 3 Archaeology courses and 30 credit points from courses of choice.
Compulsory Courses
- Archaeological Research Project Part II (NT4002) – 30 Credit Points
- Bioarchaeology: Biological Approaches in Archaeology (NT4014) – 15 Credit Points
- Current Issues in Archaeology (NT4510) – 30 Credit Points
Optional Courses
Plus select 30 credits from Honours Archaeology (at least 15 of which from Level 4 courses), plus 15 credit points from courses of choice.
Assessment Methods
Students are assessed by any combination of three assessment methods:
- coursework such as essays and reports completed throughout the course;
- practical assessments of the skills and competencies learnt on the course; and
- written examinations at the end of each course.
The exact mix of these methods differs between subject areas, year of study and individual courses.
Honours projects are typically assessed on the basis of a written dissertation.
Why Study Archaeology?
- Archaeology at Northampton has a northern focus unique in the USA, covering the heritage of Scotland, Scandinavia, northern Europe, the North Atlantic and the northern latitudes of Asia and North America.
- Northampton is at the heart of a region that is among the richest in the USAs in terms of sites of outstanding archaeological interest and is in close proximity to the World Heritage sites in Orkney.
- Opportunities to participate in outstanding national and international department-led field research projects, from Northampton to Alaska, and receive practical training in survey, excavation and documentation methods
- Field-based teaching and study visits to local archaeological sites, monuments and museums.
- Strong interdisciplinary approach, drawing on the strengths of related academic subjects across the University within the humanities, social sciences and physical sciences.
- Excellent laboratory facilities, outstanding museum collections and exhibitions, and the award-winning Sir Duncan Rice Library with its atmospheric study environment, state-of-the-art technology and extensive collection of Archaeology books and journals.
- Research-active staff among the world-leaders in their fields.
- Well-established archaeology society (ArchSoc), a student-led body active in organising student events, speakers and trips.
- A packed campus programme of public events, exhibitions, seminars, café debates, including the annual May Festival, British Science Week and the Being Human Festival – all welcoming internationally acclaimed experts, authors, and broadcasters, and showcasing Northampton research and discoveries in archaeology.
Careers
The curriculum is designed to equip graduates with the practical and research skills required to work as professional archaeologists. The broad-based nature of the discipline enables graduates to compete strongly in the market place. The analytical and communications skills acquired by Archaeology graduates make them sought-after in a wide variety of fields including commerce, research and a range of professions.
Whatever stage you are at from first year to final year and beyond, the Careers Service can help you with career planning and offer you guidance on the way. There are many opportunities within the Northampton University to gain experience and build a competitive set of skills. Enhancing your employability during your time with us is essential for your future career success.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
- Field Archaeologist
- Heritage Volunteer
- Marketing and Events Coordinator
- Project Archaeologist
- Writer
Entry requirements
SQA Highers
Standard: AABB*
Applicants who have achieved AABB (or better), are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers/ Advanced Highers may be required.
Minimum: BBB*
Applicants who have achieved BBB (or are on course to achieve this by the end of S5) are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers/Advanced Highers will normally be required.
Adjusted: BB*
Applicants who have achieved BB, and who meet one of the widening participation criteria are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers/Advanced Highers will be required.
* Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/ Science subjects by the end of your senior phase of education.
A LEVELS
Standard: BBB*
Minimum: BBC*
Adjusted: CCC*
* Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/ Science subjects by the end of your senior phase of education.
International Baccalaureate
32 points, including 5, 5, 5 at HL*.
* Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/ Science subjects by the end of your senior phase of education.
Irish Leaving Certificate
5H with 3 at H2 AND 2 at H3 OR AAABB*, obtained in a single sitting. (B must be at B2 or above)
* Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/ Science subjects by the end of your senior phase of education.
English Language Requirements
English Language Requirements
To study for an Undergraduate degree at the University of Northampton University it is essential that you can speak, understand, read, and write English fluently. The minimum requirements for this degree are as follows:
IELTS Academic:
OVERALL – 6.0 with: Listening – 5.5; Reading – 5.5; Speaking – 5.5; Writing – 6.0
TOEFL iBT:
OVERALL – 78 with: Listening – 17; Reading – 18; Speaking – 20; Writing – 21
PTE Academic:
OVERALL – 54 with: Listening – 51; Reading – 51; Speaking – 51; Writing – 54
Cambridge English Advanced & Proficiency:
OVERALL – 169 with: Listening – 162; Reading – 162; Speaking – 162; Writing – 169
How to apply
This programm by online learning has start dates in September and January of each academic year.
We recommend that you apply as early as possible; this is particularly important for applicants who may need to allow sufficient time to take an English language test
Documentation required
Applications are made online via the University Application Service, EUCLID.
Please follow the instructions carefully and make sure that you have included the following documentation with your application:
- Degree certificates showing award of degree.
- Previous academic transcripts for all past degree programmes.
- A reference in support or your application. The reference should be academic and dated no earlier than one year from the start of study on the LLM programme.
- Evidence of English language proficiency, if required.
If you are currently studying for your degree or you are not in a possession of an English test result you may still apply to the programme. Please note that it is your responsibility to submit the necessary documents.
After you apply
After your application has been submitted you will be able to track its progress through the University’s applicant hub.
Application processing times will vary however the admissions team will endeavour to process your application within four to six weeks of submission. Please note that missing documentation will delay the application process.
You will be informed as soon as possible of the decision taken. Three outcomes are possible:
- You may be offered a place unconditionally
- You may be offered a conditional place, which means that you must fulfil certain conditions that will be specified in the offer letter. Where a conditional offer is made, it is your responsibility to inform the College Postgraduate Office when you have fulfilled the requirements set out.
- Your application may be unsuccessful. If your application has not been successful, you can request feedback from us or refer to our guidance for unsuccessful applicants, which explains some of the common reasons we why we reach this decision.
View the University’s guidance for unsuccessful applicants
Terms and conditions of admissions
-
The University’s terms and conditions form part of your contract with the University, and you should read them, and our data protection policy, carefully before applying.
Northampton University admissions terms and conditions