In Global Perspectives you will explore key issues in the study of the human past, and the different ways archaeologists have approached them. You will learn about the different theoretical frameworks that we use to interpret archaeological material, and how these have developed over time. You will also learn how archaeology addresses some of the important issues that we face in the world today.

On completion of this module, you will have developed a sound understanding of the principal themes in global archaeology, how we study them, and their relevance to today’s world. You will also have learnt how to evaluate different sources of evidence, assess the validity of different perspectives and debates surrounding contested issues, and construct your own arguments based on a critical reading of the available evidence. In addition, you will develop your oral and written communication skills.

In this module you will explore the material remains of the social, cultural, economic, and technological aspects of life in Britain since the last Ice Age. You will learn about the different archaeological periods, the characteristic features that define them, and key sites and finds. The module will also situate Britain within its wider European context, broadening your knowledge of the human past to the neighbouring regions of the continent, and allowing you to study the complex relationships between them.

On completion of the module you will have developed a sound understanding of the chronology of the human past within a British and European context, and the different archaeological periods that it is divided into. You will understand how the nature of human society has changed over time, and how this is reflected in the archaeological record. You will also have enhanced the skills you began to develop in term 1, including your ability to evaluate different types of information, assess the validity of competing arguments, and to think and write in an informed and critical manner.

This module will provide you with practical experience of archaeological fieldwork and post-excavation analysis. Working in the field, you will learn the methods that we use in field archaeology, how to carry out different forms of archaeological survey, and the techniques we use to analyse the data we collect. You will also be introduced to laboratory methods that are used when analysing archaeological material, and how to quantify and interpret archaeological data. The module will also introduce you to the potential career paths open to you in archaeology, and how the skills you are developing are also relevant to careers in other disciplines.

On completion of the module you will have learnt the fundamental principles of archaeological fieldwork, know how to work safely in both the field and the laboratory, and gained practical experience in the use of industry standard equipment. You will also have learnt how to quantify and analyse data, and present the results using computer applications, and you will have gained experience of working as part of team and developed skills in leadership and communication. You will also have learnt what careers are available to graduates with an archaeology degree, and the relevance of the skills you have learnt throughout your first year at university.

This module explores the archaeological heritage all around us. You will learn to identify the remains of the past which survive today and the major sources, theories and practices that preserve it, including their benefits, conflicts and tensions. You will examine the debates surrounding the definition of heritage and its development as a concept, analyse the impact of heritage on archaeology, and understand the tools we use to preserve and display the remains of the past. Issues such as political agendas, the impacts of legislation, conservation, interpretation and digitalisation are analysed through practical applications and real-world case studies.

On completion of the module you will have developed a solid foundation in the theory and practice of archaeological heritage, understand the key debates and issues relating to this subject, and be aware of the career paths that are available within this area. You will also have built upon and further developed the skills in critical thinking and writing you have learnt in the previous two terms.

You now have the opportunity to pick an optional module to learn a new language or build on your existing language skills as part of your degree. You can choose:

• Subsidiary Language for Beginners (choice of German, Italian or Spanish)
• French: Intermediate Language Development
• Spanish: Intermediate Language Development
• Chinese: Intermediate Language Development
• German: Communication in Practice
• French: Communication in Practice
• Spanish: Communication in Practice