Archaeology is a multidisciplinary field of study that focuses on the scientific and methodological study of past human societies and cultures. It is a profession that explores our shared human heritage by examining the physical remains of ancient civilisations and their artefacts.
Students pursuing an archaeology degree will gain skills and knowledge in areas such as anthropology, geology, biology, history, and cultural studies. They will learn how to excavate, analyse and interpret archaeological findings and use various scientific methods to determine artefacts' age, origin and function.
Aside from the UK's reputation as an academic powerhouse, it is recognised globally for its ancient heritage, historical sites, museums, and long history as a superpower. The UK offers everything for an aspiring archaeologist, from Avant-grande infrastructure to research sites. Depending upon which type of Archaeology degree a student chooses, a significant proportion of the course may be taught as practical classes meaning field, computer and traditional laboratory sessions are taught alongside the classroom sessions.
Career opportunities for graduates with an archaeology degree are diverse, ranging from museum work and heritage management to academic research and cultural resource management. Graduates can also find employment in government agencies, private archaeological consulting firms, or non-profit organisations.
Learn more about the best archaeology universities in the UK below (Guardian University Guide 2023) and begin your application to study in the UK by arranging a free consultation with SI-UK.
Top 10 UK Universities for Archaeology
1. University of Cambridge
The Department of Archaeology at the University of Cambridge offers a flexible course in Archaeology, Assyriology, Biological Anthropology and Egyptology, allowing students to specialise in one or two subjects from the second year. The course offers access to resources such as the Cambridge Archaeological Unit, a well-equipped IT suite, purpose-built laboratories, the Duckworth Collection of human and primate skeletal remains and fossil hominin casts, and the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology and the Fitzwilliam Museum.
In the first year, students pick three core papers from Archaeology, language and Biological Anthropology, with the option of selecting a fourth paper from Psychology, Social Anthropology, Politics and International Relations, or Sociology. In the second and third years, students can pursue one of four single-subject tracks in Archaeology, Assyriology, Egyptology, or Biological Anthropology, with the option to combine tracks. Each track has specific requirements and options for papers and fieldwork, culminating in a dissertation in Year 3.
- Course in focus: BA (Hons) Archaeology
- Entry requirements: A Level: A*AA; IB: 40-42 points, with 776 at Higher Level
- International fees: £24,507
2. University of Oxford
The MSc in Archaeology course at the University of Oxford is an 11-month taught master's that allows students to specialise in a particular area of archaeology while also providing a foundation for those wishing to pursue doctoral research. The programme comprises one core module and four modules related to the chosen stream, including a dissertation. The subject streams available include the archaeology of Asia, medieval archaeology, prehistory and pre-colonial archaeology, environmental archaeology, landscape archaeology, maritime archaeology, and social archaeology.
The Sackler Library, a world-class library for archaeology, is situated between the Institute of Archaeology and the Ashmolean Museum and is the central facility, providing for most student needs. The department has close ties with the Ashmolean Museum and the Pitt Rivers Museum, whose collections may contribute to graduate teaching.
- Course in focus: MSc in Archaeology
- Entry requirements: A first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in Archaeology or a related subject.
- International fees: £30,910
3. London School of Economics
LSE’s MSc Social Anthropology is designed to provide students with a comprehensive and intensive introduction to the discipline of social anthropology. The programme consists of one compulsory course, optional courses to the value of two units, and an essay (dissertation).
The programme is directly informed and enhanced by the strong tradition of fieldwork-based research within the Department, and attendance at seminars and non-assessed tutorials is compulsory. The MSc in Social Anthropology is suitable for those intending to proceed with other careers or as preparation for further research work in anthropology and related disciplines.
- Course in focus: MSc Social Anthropology
- Entry requirements: An upper second class honours (2:1) degree or equivalent in any discipline, including anthropology, within the context of a more general degree, is required.
- International fees: £25,920
4. University of St Andrews
The MA (Hons) in Ancient History & Archaeology is a four-year course offered by the University of St Andrews’ School of Classics. The degree examines the civilisations of the ancient Mediterranean through the evidence of their material remains, focusing on the period stretching from the early first millennium BCE to Late Antiquity. The course is integrally connected to other degree programmes in the School of Classics. The study of archaeology and material culture shapes all the topics studied in sub-honours modules.
Fieldwork is also offered, with opportunities for placement on archaeological projects. The first two years of the degree course feature modules shared with the Ancient History programme and a specialised module that introduces key archaeological concepts, methodologies, and techniques. Students also receive practical training using items from the University’s museum collections, and an emphasis is placed on learning to use archaeological and historical sources together.
- Course in focus: Ancient History and Archaeology MA (Honours)
- Entry requirements: GCE A-Levels; Standard entry grades: AAA; IB points; Standard entry grades: 36 (HL 6,6,5); Minimum entry grades: 36 (HL 6,5,5)
- International fees: £28,190
5. University College London
The MA Archaeology course at University College London is a flexible programme that provides students with a broad introduction to archaeology as a comparative and anthropologically informed discipline. The programme focuses on current archaeological theory and interpretive trends, preparing students for research in their chosen field.
The structure allows students to tailor their studies to their interests with various options available. The UCL Institute of Archaeology, where the programme is offered, is one of Britain's largest and most highly regarded centres for archaeology, archaeological science, cultural heritage, and museum studies.
The programme's compulsory modules include a dissertation, and Themes, Thought and Theory in World Archaeology: Foundations, and Themes, Thought and Theory in World Archaeology: Current Topics. Optional modules cover a broad range of topics, including Old and Middle Egyptian Texts, Spatial Statistics, Network Analysis and Human History, and Archaeological Data Science, among others.
- Course in focus: Archaeology MA
- Entry requirements: An upper second-class Bachelor's degree in a relevant subject from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard.
- International fees: £29,000
SI-UK can help you apply to the top universities to study Archaeology in the UK. Book a free consultation, either online or at our London office.
6. University of Sheffield
The University of Sheffield offers a Master's in Archaeology with two distinct pathways. The cross-discipline pathway is designed for students with general interests in archaeology, offering a customised course structure to explore specific periods, regions, or approaches while gaining a solid foundation in the discipline. Students can choose between a research dissertation or a work placement to enhance their employability.
The Classical Mediterranean pathway focuses on the archaeology of the Classical and Mediterranean world, examining it from various perspectives such as socio-cultural, landscape, materials, and bioarchaeological.
- Course in focus: MA Archaeology
- Entry requirements: Minimum 2:1 undergraduate honours degree in an arts, humanities or science subject.
- International fees: £25,600
7. University of Birmingham
The Ancient History and Archaeology BA at Birmingham combines historical and archaeological approaches to explore the ancient world. Students study civilisations like Egypt, Greece, Rome, and prehistoric societies in the Mediterranean, Europe, and Britain. The course emphasises integrating archaeological and historical methods, covering topics like field archaeology, material culture studies, and historical interpretation. You can specialise in Archaeology, Ancient History, or both.
- Course in focus: BA Ancient History and Archaeology
- Entry requirements: A-level: ABB, IB Diplom6,5,5 in Higher level subjects plus 32 points overall.
- International fees: £21,780
8. University of Reading
The MA in Archaeology at the University of Reading offers flexibility and prepares students for careers in research, the commercial sector, or heritage management. With a strong emphasis on research and ranked 1st in the UK for research quality in Archaeology, it integrates social and scientific techniques for a comprehensive understanding of the past. Students can explore a range of thematic and skills-based options, covering various periods from prehistory to the medieval era.
- Course in focus: MA Archaeology
- Entry requirements: A good undergraduate honours degree (2:1 or above) or equivalent from a university outside the UK. Your degree should be in archaeology, history, environmental studies or any related field.
- International fees: £21,350
9. University of Newcastle
Newcastle University offers a comprehensive Master's in Archaeology set in an archaeologically rich region. With access to world-class prehistoric, Roman, medieval, and post-medieval heritage sites, students benefit from regular fieldwork and study trips. The MA provides six specialised pathways, including Prehistoric Archaeology, Classical Archaeology (Greek and Roman), Roman Frontier Studies, Late Antique, Medieval and Byzantine Archaeology, Historical Archaeology, and Archaeology, Artefacts, and Technologies.
- Course in focus: Archaeology MA
- Entry requirements: A 2:1 honours degree, or an international equivalent, in archaeology.
- International fees: £21,600
10. University of Liverpool
The Archaeology MSc at the University of Liverpool offers two pathways: Artefact Studies and Landscape and Environment. Designed for graduates in archaeology or science fields, providing an excellent starting point or career advancement in these exciting fields.
In the first semester, students will choose either the Artefact Studies or Environmental Science pathway, with specific required modules and optional modules for each. The optional modules cover various topics related to the Neolithic era, Roman frontier systems, Egyptian settlement archaeology, Archaic Greek world, early technologies, and pyrotechnology.
- Course in focus: Archaeology MSc
- Entry requirements: A 2:1 or equivalent undergraduate degree in Archaeology or related field such as: Anthropology, some science subjects (Biological, Physics, Geology, Geophysical), History and Geography.
- International fees: £21,150
Archaeology Scholarships in the UK
- Charles Mackie Scholarship at the University of Edinburgh: It is offered to students progressing from an undergraduate degree in History, Classics, or Archaeology to Masters study within the School.
- York’s Department of Archaeology bursaries: The University of York offers two bursaries worth £2,000 each to the most outstanding academic applicants.
- UCL Institute of Archaeology International Masters Student Award: It supports one international fee-paying student pursuing an MA or MSc degree in Archaeology or Archaeological Sciences at UCL Institute of Archaeology. The scholarship provides up to £26,000 for the duration of their degree, which can be used for fees and/or maintenance costs as needed.
Apart from the mentioned scholarships, students interested in archaeology should explore the university websites for additional funding opportunities.
Study Archaeology in the UK
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Archaeology Degree FAQ
How much does it cost to study in the UK for international students?
On average, tuition fees for undergraduate degrees range from £10,000 to £38,000 per year, while postgraduate courses may cost between £12,000 to £45,000 per year.
Is the UK a good place to study for international students?
Yes, the UK is a popular and excellent destination for international students. It offers high-quality education, diverse cultural experiences, and access to world-renowned universities and research facilities. The UK's academic reputation, wide range of courses, and English language proficiency make it an attractive choice for international students.
Which city in the UK is best for international students?
The best city for international students in the UK depends on individual preferences and academic interests. Cities like London, Edinburgh, Manchester, Oxford, and Cambridge are popular choices due to their vibrant cultural scene, historical significance, and renowned universities. Each city offers unique experiences and opportunities for students to explore.
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