Archaeology

FdSc Archaeology covers topics relating exploring the nature of fieldwork and artefact care, providing the opportunity for you to undertake surveys and discover just what the practical essentials are of archaeological work. The course covers a diverse range of content which encompasses a range of both archaeological and broader heritage sector skills and knowledge including, museums and archives, artefact analysis and interpretation, survey, excavation, computing, conservation, heritage management and schools of archaeological thought.

This is the only Archaeology Foundation Degree offered in the country and you will receive a good grounding in all periods of British archaeology, both prehistoric and historic by exploring the archaeological and ecological evidence from the different periods and understanding how this fits into the bigger picture of Britain. Cornwall presents a fantastic setting to study in, meaning that there are several field trips to local sites in the South West as well as guidance on how to seek opportunities for optional overseas residential trips. There is also a focus on developing requisite interests and skills for your career path with flexibility in the choice of work experiences and project work.

You will undertake research into a topic of your own choosing under the guidance of staff. In the first year, you will produce a project design; you will then research and produce a project report in the second year. This helps you apply the skills learnt in other modules and have a tangible record of your capabilities to show to future employers. This course has excellent employer links and can provide you with a range of opportunities to explore gaining some hands-on practical experience in a wide selection of both archaeological and heritage settings. You will undertake work experience which is linked to the professional project module in the second year.

Graduates can apply to progress onto the BSc (Hons) Archaeology top up degree delivered at the University Centre Truro and Penwith or to further archaeological studies at degree level at other universities. Alternatively, graduates could progress to employment in archaeological units, museums and heritage centres.

FdSc Archaeology will prepare learners for a wide range of diverse careers in archaeology, but also the wider heritage sector and beyond in fields such as education, research or publicity. Future careers include:
• Academic researcher
• Archaeologist
• Conservator
• Heritage manager
• Historic buildings inspector/conservation officer
• Museum education officer
• Museum/gallery curator
• Museum/gallery exhibitions officer

Wider employment opportunities include:
• Archivist
• Cartographer
• Higher education lecturer
• Records manager
• Social researcher
• Tourism officer
• Mine searches
• Surveyor / Survey equipment sales
• Laboratory work / Laboratory supplies