BA in Archaeology and Ancient Civilisations, Durham University

36 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

This course explores the archaeology, art, and culture of ancient civilisations spanning from Europe to Asia, including the Mediterranean, Near East, and Asia. It provides students with a comprehensive overview of how the archaeological record was formed and how it can be interpreted today. Emphasising material culture evidence such as artefacts, monuments, landscapes, and biological remains, the course encourages understanding destinations like Greece, Rome, Egypt, India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. It offers a flexible curriculum, with options to take modules from related departments like Classics and Ancient History, and features opportunities for study abroad and placement years. The course is designed to blend scholarship with practical skills, preparing students for careers in archaeology, heritage, or further academic study.

Why this course is highly recommended

This programme offers a dynamic mix of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, including hands-on fieldwork, archaeological analysis, and research skills. Its flexibility to incorporate modules from other disciplines and its optional study abroad and placement opportunities make it ideal for students seeking a broad yet in-depth understanding of ancient civilisations. Additionally, students benefit from teaching by world specialists in a department ranked highly globally and nationally, with excellent facilities and links to professional accreditation.

Specialisation

Students can focus on the archaeology and cultures of the ancient Mediterranean, East Asia, and North Africa, including major civilisations such as Greece, Rome, Egypt, India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. Modules allow for developing expertise in these regions, with opportunities to study specific aspects like urbanism, monumentality, and economy using material culture evidence.

Course fees

Application fees

29.56L

1st year tuition fees

29.56L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Entry requires A level offers of AAB, a BTEC Extended Diploma DDD, or an IB score of 36 with specific subject levels. Alternative qualifications such as T-levels and other UK or international qualifications are also considered. Science A level applicants must pass the practical component. An English language proficiency test may be required for international students. Further details are available through the university's admission policies.

English language test

PTE

TOEFL

IELTS

6.5

DUOLINGO

Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the Durham University admission page for complete details.

Career prospects

Graduates develop a wide range of transferable skills valued across many sectors, including research, analysis, communication, and practical project planning. They often find employment in archaeology, heritage management, academia, law, civil service, publishing, and education. The programme's focus on practical skills like excavation, survey, GIS, and scientific techniques prepares students well for professional roles or further postgraduate study.

FAQs

What opportunities are there for international study?

The course offers an optional third year studying abroad at an overseas university, which can extend the degree to four years.

Can I combine this course with other disciplines?

Yes, students can take modules from Classics and Ancient History and other departments to tailor their learning.