MA English Literature
The MA in English Literature at the University of Reading offers a comprehensive and im...
BA Archaeology with Professional Placement
Reading
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA Archaeology with Professional Placement is a three-year undergraduate degree that combines rigorous academic coursework with a year-long professional placement in the third year. This structure allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, fostering a deeper understanding of archaeological practices and enhancing employability upon graduation.
Curriculum: The curriculum is thoughtfully structured to cover a wide array of archaeological topics. In the initial years, students engage with core subjects such as archaeological theory, field methods, and the history of human societies. Advanced modules in later years delve into specialized areas, including bioarchaeology, environmental archaeology, and heritage management. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ensuring a balanced and comprehensive educational experience.
Research Focus: Research is a cornerstone of the University of Reading's approach to archaeology. Faculty members are actively involved in diverse research projects, spanning topics like archaeo-astronomy, environmental change, and ancient technologies. For instance, the university has been part of interdisciplinary projects such as "The Archaeo-Astronomy Project," which explores the integration of astronomy and archaeology in understanding ancient landscapes.
Industry Engagement: The Professional Placement year is a pivotal component of the program, offering students direct exposure to the archaeological sector. Students have the opportunity to work with museums, heritage sites, research institutions, and commercial archaeology units. This engagement allows students to apply their academic knowledge to practical scenarios, develop industry-relevant skills, and build professional networks that are invaluable for future career prospects.
Global Perspective: The University of Reading fosters a global outlook by encouraging students to engage with international archaeological projects and study abroad opportunities. Collaborations with global institutions and participation in international conferences enable students to gain diverse perspectives and understand the global context of archaeological research. This international exposure enriches their academic experience and prepares them for global career opportunities.
Location
Reading
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 29950
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 70% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 88.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 69.
- DET Academic: A minimum overall score of 125.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Reading offers a variety of scholarships for international students to support academic excellence and financial needs.
Vice-Chancellor Global Scholarship Award: Merit-based scholarship for high-achieving international students. Covers partial tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Subject-Specific Scholarships: Offered by individual departments based on academic excellence and course selection. Examples include scholarships in Business, Law, Agriculture, and Science.
Chevening Scholarships: A UK government-funded scholarship for outstanding students from eligible countries. Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Scholarships tailored for students from specific countries, including India, China, and the USA. Criteria vary based on nationality and academic performance.
Graduates of the BA Archaeology with Professional Placement program are well-equipped to pursue a wide range of careers within the archaeological and heritage sectors. The skills developed during the course—such as critical thinking, research abilities, fieldwork experience, and the practical knowledge gained from the professional placement—are highly transferable and sought after in several industries.
Archaeological Consultant or Field Archaeologist: Many graduates choose to work as archaeological consultants or field archaeologists, conducting surveys, excavations, and research for commercial or public sector projects. These roles are common in heritage management, urban development projects, and the preservation of historical sites. The professional placement year provides valuable hands-on experience in these roles, giving students an edge in the competitive archaeological job market.
Heritage Manager or Site Officer: Heritage management is another thriving career path for graduates. In this role, professionals are responsible for preserving, managing, and promoting historical sites and artifacts. Working in collaboration with museums, national parks, and archaeological sites, graduates can ensure that important historical resources are maintained and made accessible to the public. This career often involves project management and working with diverse teams.
Museum Curator or Collections Manager: The field of museum and gallery curation offers opportunities for graduates to work with historical collections, organize exhibits, and manage the day-to-day operations of cultural institutions. Graduates with an interest in collections care and preservation often find rewarding careers in museums and galleries, contributing to the education and public engagement aspects of the institution.
Conservationist: A career in conservation allows graduates to directly engage with the preservation of physical archaeological remains, such as ancient artifacts, fossils, and even monuments. Conservationists ensure that these items are cared for in a way that ensures their longevity for future generations. This role combines elements of science and history, and many conservationists work for museums, heritage organizations, or government agencies.
Academic Researcher or Lecturer: For those with a passion for research and education, pursuing further studies (such as a Master's or Ph.D.) and working in academia is a viable option. Graduates can go on to become researchers or lecturers in universities or research institutions, contributing to archaeological knowledge, publishing papers, and educating future generations of archaeologists.
Environmental Archaeologist: Environmental archaeology focuses on the relationship between humans and their environment in the past. This can lead to careers in environmental consulting, where archaeologists assess the impact of development projects on the environment and historical sites. It is also applicable to environmental organizations that focus on sustainable practices and the preservation of natural landscapes.
Public Engagement Officer: Graduates interested in outreach and education can become public engagement officers. These professionals work to increase awareness and public understanding of archaeology, often through community outreach, educational programs, or media projects. They may work for museums, educational institutions, or public heritage organizations.
Forensic Archaeologist: A career in forensic archaeology involves applying archaeological methods to solve modern-day crimes. Forensic archaeologists assist law enforcement agencies in locating and recovering human remains and other evidence. This role often requires specialized training beyond the undergraduate level but is a fascinating and important area of archaeology.
