Archaeology

Overview

You'll consider the key challenges of modern society - from climate change to new technologies, clashes of religion, violence and warfare - by examining the long-term record of our past.The study of people lies at the heart of our courses: from exploring how the Roman Empire used architecture as a political statement, to the origins of spirituality in Prehistoric Europe.

Yet we also use scientific techniques to examine ancient objects, human remains and landscapes. Our course content evolves in line with our new discoveries and emerging research, and you'll learn by combining academic study with hands-on discovery.

Career opportunities

Study with us and you'll combine academic and practical skills with a truly interdisciplinary mix of humanities and science training.

We have pioneered innovative assessments that relate to the skills employers want to see in graduates, including rigorous intellectual skills of interpretation, research and analysis, and data manipulation.

You'll have the opportunity to become a regular volunteer at the University's own Manchester Museum and multiple award-winning Whitworth Art Gallery, gaining invaluable cultural sector expertise. You'll also undertake archaeological fieldwork, ethnographic research or a museum placement with us, either here in the UK or overseas, building your experience of practical archaeology as well as key leadership, communication and creative problem-solving skills.

Recent graduates of the Archaeology programme offered at The University of Manchester have become commercial archaeologists, heritage and environment officers, editors, broadcasters, journalists, accountants, writers and researchers.