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Archaeology (Top-Up)

BSc (Hons) · 1 Years · Full-time · 21/09/2026 · UndergraduateTruro Campus
Awarded by:
University of Plymouth

Course summary

BSc Archaeology builds on existing archaeological knowledge but explores themes in more depth, covering environmental and experimental archaeology, world cultures, ethnographies and exploring philosophical interpretations and archaeological theories. The BSc also includes the opportunity to undertake self directed dissertation research on a topic or site of your choosing. The course investigates current understanding and trends in world archaeology, as well as hominid evolution, ethnographic studies and experimental archaeology. The programme delves into the more philosophical theories associated with site, artefacts and cultural interpretations, and explores the wider implication of heritage conservation techniques and advances in environmental archaeology.

BSc (Hons) Archaeology is a one year top-up course, which can be studied after completing a foundation degree. You will be given guidance on opportunities for a strong practical uptake in fieldwork including the use of digital techniques, museum work, laboratory analysis and artefact care. You will also explore features such as the diversity and key developments of world archaeology, environmental archaeology and the practical experience of pollen analysis, as well as organising a public exhibition.

The course is based in Cornwall with access to coastline, beaches and moorlands which is particularly beneficial for field trips to local sites in the South West. Students will receive a good grounding in world archaeology, scientific archaeology and environmental archaeology as well as archaeology and modern popular media. This programme also has excellent employer links and a good record for progression to employment and postgraduate research.

BSc 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

Modules

World Archaeology
Experimental Archaeology and Event Management
Current Debates In Archaeology
Heritage Conservation & Environmental Archaeology
Dissertation

Modules may be subject to change

Assessment method

Coursework – 68%
Exam/Test – 40%
Practical – 12%

How to apply

Apply by
14 January

This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.

Application codes

Course code:
V401
Institution code:
T85
Campus name:
Truro Campus
Campus Code:
T

Points of entry

The following entry points are available for this course:

  • Year 1

International applicants

Unfortunately, we are unable to consider international applicants.

Entry requirements

Qualification requirements

UCAS Tariff

For entry to our top-up degrees, candidates must be holders of a relevant foundation degree, HND or equivalent Level 5 qualification.

GCSE/National 4/National 5

GCSE English and Maths are also required at grade 4/C or above. Contact us for more information if you do not have these, or if you have a level 2 equivalent qualification.

Additional entry requirements

Criminal records declaration (DBS/Disclosure Scotland)
Interview
Applicants will be interviewed to assess the experience/capabilities for successful entry and completion of the course.

Historical entry grades data BETA

This section shows the range of grades students (with UK A-Levels or Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diplomas) who received offers were previously accepted with (learn more). It is designed to support your research but does not guarantee whether you will or won't get a place. Admissions teams consider various factors, including interviews, subject requirements, and entrance tests. Check all course entry requirements for eligibility.

Not enough data available

We are unable to show previous accepted grades for this course. This could be because the course is new, it's a postgraduate course, there isn't enough historical data, or the provider has opted out of sharing their entry grades data for this course - learn more.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

LocationFeeYear
England£9535*Year 1
Northern Ireland£9535*Year 1
Scotland£9535*Year 1
Wales£9535*Year 1
Channel Islands£9535*Year 1
Republic of Ireland£9535*Year 1
EU£10499*Year 1
International£10499*Year 1

* This is a provisional fee and subject to change.

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website.

Additional fee information

For more information and guidance about fees and funding, please visit the website: https://www.truro-penwith.ac.uk/study-with-us/university-centre/student-finance/

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