If you are on an Major Weighting in Archaeology

What do archaeologists do with the data that they collect during excavation and survey? How do they analyse and interpret these different types of information to gain a better understanding of the human past? This module takes an applied approach to these issues, providing you with practical training in different forms of data collection and analysis (such as experimental archaeology, environmental archaeology, and the spatial analysis of data using Geographic Information Systems). You will also gain practical experience of how archaeologists present the results of their work to a wider audience.

On completion of the module you will have learnt how to collect, manage, analyse and interpret different forms of quantitative and qualitative data through a variety of different methods. You will have enhanced your digital literacy, including developing more advanced skills in computer applications such as MS Excel, and the use of Geographic Information Systems, and developed your oral and written communication skills. You will also have gained experience of undertaking archaeological work in a safe and professional manner in a range of real-world situations.

If you are on an Equal Weighting or a Minor Weighting in Archaeology

Understanding the human past means studying the complex relationships that formed between humans and the different elements of the world around them, from plants and animals to geological formations and weather systems. In this module you will explore the different ways we think about these relationships, from perspectives that see humans as directly transforming the world around them, to more recent approaches that consider the ways non-humans have shaped human lives. The module will focus on European prehistory, and you will be able to choose the particular period that you wish to focus on.

On completion of the module you will have developed a detailed understanding of the different theoretical perspectives that archaeologists take when studying the relationships between humans and the non-human world. You will have learnt how to deal with philosophical concepts and debates, how to evaluate different sources of evidence, and how to think in a critical and informed manner. You will also have developed your written and verbal communication skills, learning how to effectively communicate complex ideas in a clear and balanced manner.

If you are on an Equal Weighting or a Minor Weighting in Archaeology

Archaeology sheds direct light on both life and death in past societies, and the remains of mortuary activity, such as graves, cemeteries and tombs (among other evidence) provide rich avenues of enquiry. This module comprises a thematic exploration of the archaeology of death, burial and commemoration, focused on the key debates and approaches to mortuary archaeology for early medieval Britain. For this period, mortuary data has been pivotal to understanding the changing and varied character of societies between the fifth and eleventh centuries CE and provides a critical focus to your studies. In doing so, you will also learn about a range of theoretical and methodological themes drawing on a range of regions and periods throughout the globe, from prehistory and the ancient world through to the later medieval and modern eras.

On completion of the module you will have developed a sound understanding of the different theoretical approaches we take to the study of mortuary archaeology, and how they inform our understanding of the past. You will have learnt how to critically evaluate different forms of evidence and assess competing arguments, and how to make reasoned, informed statements on the basis of the knowledge you have developed. You will also have continued to develop your written and oral communication skills.

In this module you will continue to develop your technical skills, and gain experience of working as a professional archaeologist, as you participate in an archaeological fieldwork project. Working under the guidance of professional archaeologists, you will learn to identify evidence in the field, record it effectively and present it to a non-specialist audience in a clear and effective manner. You will also undertake practical training in key skills such as excavation techniques, sediment recording, artefact identification and handling, as well as survey, drawing and photography.

By the end of the module you will have gained direct experience of the primary archaeological record, how it is discovered and recorded, the relationship between theory and practice in the archaeological process, and the logistics of delivering a practical project and associated ethical, and health and safety, considerations. At the same time, you will gain a range of transferable skills from your participation, developing personal skills in areas such as problem-solving, decision-making, team-work and personal responsibility. By taking part in a research excavation, you will also have made new discoveries and contributed to our understanding of the past.

The Level 5, 40-credit modules require a basic foundation of knowledge of your chosen language e.g. GCSE or equivalent,  a Level 4 module in the same language or equivalent previous learning. This module includes an optional placement abroad, such as an intensive course at a partner university. You can choose:

• Advanced Language Development and Global Sustainability (choice of German, French or Spanish)
• Upper Intermediate Language Development and Global Employability (choice of Chinese, French or Spanish)
• Post Beginner Language Development and Global Cultures (choice of German, Italian or Spanish)