BA Archaeology

Program Overview

Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) in the United Kingdom offers a captivating BA (Hons) Archaeology degree, designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of human history through the investigation of material culture. This engaging program delves into the study of human societies and cultures from the Stone Age to the modern era, exploring topics such as ancient civilizations, burial archaeology, the archaeology of war and conflict, and the study of human remains. Situated in Canterbury, a city rich in archaeological heritage, the program leverages its unique location to provide an exceptional learning environment for aspiring archaeologists. The degree emphasizes a hands-on approach, combining rigorous academic study with extensive practical experience in the field and laboratory, preparing students for diverse careers in heritage, conservation, and research.

Curriculum: The BA Archaeology curriculum at CCCU is structured to provide a robust foundation in archaeological theory and practice. Students are introduced to core archaeological concepts, methodologies, and key periods of human history. Typical modules include "Introduction to Archaeology," "Prehistoric Societies," "Roman and Medieval Archaeology," and "Field Archaeology Skills," where students learn essential techniques like surveying, excavation, and recording. As the program progresses, students delve into more specialized areas, which may cover topics such as archaeological science, heritage management, landscape archaeology, and advanced excavation techniques. The curriculum places a strong emphasis on practical learning, with mandatory participation in archaeological fieldwork, often including summer excavation seasons. Assessments typically involve a mix of essays, reports, presentations, and practical assignments, culminating in an independent research project or dissertation in the final year.

Research Focus: The BA Archaeology program at Canterbury Christ Church University is delivered by dedicated academics who are active researchers with diverse specialisms within the field of archaeology. Their expertise contributes to a vibrant research environment that informs the curriculum, ensuring students are exposed to contemporary archaeological debates and methodologies. While specific, detailed research interests of every faculty member are not always publicly itemized on general course overviews, the nature of the modules offered (e.g., archaeological science, burial archaeology, landscape archaeology) indicates a broad range of research areas within the department. The emphasis on practical fieldwork also means that faculty are often involved in ongoing excavation and post-excavation research projects, providing opportunities for students to engage with live research.

Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a central component of the BA Archaeology program at CCCU, designed to provide students with crucial practical experience and professional networking opportunities. The program's location in Canterbury, a city with a rich archaeological past, offers unparalleled access to local sites and organizations. Students engage in mandatory archaeological fieldwork, often participating in excavations and post-excavation work led by university staff or in collaboration with local archaeology units and heritage organizations. This hands-on experience is vital for developing the practical skills demanded by the heritage sector. The university also collaborates with local archaeology organizations and museums, providing opportunities for students to gain real-world experience, potentially through internships or volunteering, and to connect with professionals in the field. Guest lecturers from the heritage industry further enrich the learning experience, providing insights into current practices and career pathways.

Global Perspective: The BA Archaeology program at Canterbury Christ Church University inherently incorporates a global perspective by studying human societies and cultures across vast geographical and temporal scales. While the program leverages its local archaeological wealth, the curriculum is structured to examine archaeological evidence from diverse regions and periods, from prehistoric global migrations to the archaeology of the Roman Empire and medieval societies that had extensive international connections. Discussions often include comparative studies of archaeological sites and cultural developments from around the world, acknowledging the interconnectedness of human history. Through the analysis of global archaeological case studies and the exploration of overarching themes like human migration, cultural exchange, and the impact of global events, the program prepares students to understand archaeological phenomena within a broader international context, fostering a global outlook on human heritage.