COURSE OVERVIEW
By combining the disciplines of Anthropology and Archaeology we can think about the nature of humanity from the perspectives of biology, culture and objects. This course combines an anthropological approach to questions about what it means to be human with an archaeological perspective on the understanding of human societies and cultures.
Anthropology investigates the thinking and organisation of present‐day western and non‐western groups in their own terms and takes a long‐term view of the biological aspects of humanity through the lens of evolution. This course connects the humanities with the sciences. You will study both biological and social anthropology throughout the course, in modules that draw on studies in primate and human evolution, as well as ethnographic examples from contemporary societies around the world.
Archaeology examines the physical evidence of past societies to trace the history of humanity. Ancient landscapes, buildings, objects and the physical remains of the people themselves can all reveal a small part of a bigger picture to create a jigsaw of understanding. With Archaeology we take a journey through time - from the earliest human ancestors to modern times - drawing from approaches within the humanities and the sciences to understand past cultures and their modern-day heritage.
You will get hands-on experience with archaeological fieldwork through your required modules and you will also build experience with anthropological fieldwork techniques. Optional modules include computer and laboratory-based studies as well as a wide range of modules that will deepen your knowledge of particular geographical regions or themes.
In your final year you will extend your knowledge of Archaeology or Anthropology in your dissertation, or you may undertake a placement.
Find out more about the Department for Archaeology, Anthropology and Geography.
Careers
Graduates may enter the archaeological profession and work in heritage organisations, commercial archaeology and local authorities, or may work in areas more often related to anthropology, such as museums, international development or business (especially in the area of cross-cultural communication).
The University of Winchester ranks in the top 10 in the UK for graduates in employment and further study according to the Graduate Outcomes Survey 2023, HESA.
Pre-approved for a Masters
If you study a Bachelor Honours degree with us, you will be pre-approved to start a Masters degree at Winchester. To be eligible, you will need to apply by the end of March in the final year of your degree and meet the entry requirements of your chosen Masters degree.
ABOUT THIS COURSE
Suitable for applicants from:
UK, EU, World
Work placements
You have the option to undertake a work placement in Year 3 instead of a dissertation. You can also undertake a volunteering placement in Year 2.
Fieldwork
Students are required to undertake two weeks of compulsory fieldwork which takes place over the summer after Year 1. Students do the fieldwork at one of the Department's local research/ training projects. Local projects have no direct costs for student participants.
Study abroad
Our BA (Hons) Anthropology and Archaeology course provides an opportunity for you to study abroad in the United States or Canada. For more information see our Study Abroad section.
Learning and teaching
Our aim is to shape 'confident learners' by enabling you to develop the skills needed to excel in your studies here and as well as onto further studies or the employment market.
You are taught primarily through a combination of lectures and seminars, allowing opportunities to discuss and develop your understanding of topics covered in lectures in smaller groups.
In addition to the formally scheduled contact time such as lectures and seminars etc., you are encouraged to access academic support from staff within the course team and the wide range of services available to you within the University.
Independent learning
Over the duration of your course, you will be expected to develop independent and critical learning, progressively building confidence and expertise through independent and collaborative research, problem-solving and analysis with the support of staff. You take responsibility for your own learning and are encouraged to make use of the wide range of available learning resources available.
Overall workload
Your overall workload consists of class contact hours, independent learning and assessment activity.
While your actual contact hours may depend on the optional modules you select, the following information gives an indication of how much time you will need to allocate to different activities at each level of the course
Year 1 (Level 4): Timetabled teaching and learning activity*
Teaching, learning and assessment: 252 hours
Independent learning: 948 hours
Year 2 (Level 5): Timetabled teaching and learning activity*
Teaching, learning and assessment: 288 hours
Independent learning: 912 hours
Year 3 (Level 6): Timetabled teaching and learning activity*
Teaching, learning and assessment: 168 hours
Independent learning: 1032 hours
*Please note these are indicative hours for the course.
Location
Taught elements of the course take place on campus in Winchester.
Teaching hours
All class based teaching takes places between 9am – 6pm, Monday to Friday during term time. Wednesday afternoons are kept free from timetabled teaching for personal study time and for sports clubs and societies to train, meet and play matches. There may be some occasional learning opportunities (for example, an evening guest lecturer or performance) that take places outside of these hours for which you will be given forewarning.
Assessment
Our validated courses may adopt a range of means of assessing your learning. An indicative, and not necessarily comprehensive, list of assessment types you might encounter includes essays, portfolios, supervised independent work, presentations, written exams, or practical performances.
We ensure all students have an equal opportunity to achieve module learning outcomes. As such, where appropriate and necessary, students with recognised disabilities may have alternative assignments set that continue to test how successfully they have met the module's learning outcomes. Further details on assessment types used on the course you are interested in can be found on the course page, by attending an Open Day or Open Evening, or contacting our teaching staff.
The assessment balance between examination and coursework depends to some extent on the optional modules you choose. The approximate percentage of the course assessed by different assessment modes is as follows:
Year 1 (Level 4)*:
62% coursework
38% written exams
0% practical exams
Year 2 (Level 5)*:
87% coursework
13% written exams
0% practical exams
Year 3 (Level 6)*:
62% coursework
25% written exams
13% practical exams
*Please note these are indicative percentages and modes for the programme.
Feedback
We are committed to providing timely and appropriate feedback to you on your academic progress and achievement in order to enable you to reflect on your progress and plan your academic and skills development effectively. You are also encouraged to seek additional feedback from your course tutors.
Further information
For more information about our regulations for this course, please see our Academic Regulations, Policies and Procedures
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
2024 Entry: 104-120 UCAS tariff points
Our offers are typically made using UCAS tariff points to allow you to include a range of level 3 qualifications and as a guide, the requirements for this course are equivalent to:
- A-Levels: BCC-BBB from 3 A Levels or equivalent grade combinations (e.g. BBB is comparable to ABC in terms of tariff points)
- BTEC/CTEC: DMM from BTEC or Cambridge Technical (CTEC) qualifications
- International Baccalaureate: To include a minimum of 2 Higher Level certificates at grade H4
- T Level: Merit in a T Level
In addition to the above, we accept tariff points achieved for many other qualifications, such as the Access to Higher Education Diploma, Scottish Highers, UAL Diploma/Extended Diploma and WJEC Applied Certificate/Diploma, to name a few. We also accept tariff points from smaller level 3 qualifications, up to a maximum of 32, from qualifications like the Extended Project (EP/EPQ), music or dance qualifications. To find out more about UCAS tariff points, including what your qualifications are worth, please visit UCAS.
If English is not your first language, a formal English language test will most likely be required and you will need to achieve the following:
- IELTS Academic at 5.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in all four components (for year 1 entry)
- We also accept other English language qualifications, such as IELTS Indicator, Pearson PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and TOEFL iBT.
If you will be over the age of 21 years of age at the beginning of your undergraduate study, you will be considered as a mature student. This means our offer may be different and any work or life experiences you have will be considered together with any qualifications you hold. UCAS have further information about studying as a mature student on their website which may be of interest.
Course Enquiries and Applications
Telephone: +44 (0) 1962 827234
Send us a message
International Students
If you are living outside of the UK or Europe, you can find out more about how to join this course by emailing our International Recruitment Team at International@winchester.ac.uk or calling +44 (0)1962 826247
Visit us
Explore our campus and find out more about studying at Winchester by coming to one of our Open Days.
Year 1 (Level 4)
Modules Credits
| Introduction to Social Anthropology | 15 | |
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This module forms an introduction to the principles and methods upon which the study of social, or cultural, anthropology is based. No prior knowledge of the subject is assumed or expected. The philosophical distinctiveness of the subject in relation to other disciplines is outlined, and the location within anthropology of social anthropology is examined. This leads on to an assessment of the different approaches to social anthropology (e.g. ethnography, historical anthropology, material culture studies) and how they differ. These thematic lectures are buttressed by the use of sessions looking at case studies of the different approaches, especially ethnographies. These are located within comparative and critical anthropological traditions. Parallel study skills sessions alongside this lecture series allow you to develop quickly the key skills needed in an HE environment. |
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| Introduction to Biological Anthropology | 15 | |
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This module forms an introduction to the principles and methods upon which biological anthropology is based. A background in science is not assumed or required. The module provides an overview of human adaptation to different environmental and other stresses, covering human nutritional requirements, epidemiology and the evolution of infectious diseases relevant to the study of human ecology. We will also explore primates and primate behaviour, elementary genetics, human reproduction and sexuality, demography, human growth and development, and changing perceptions of race and its validity as a concept. Students will develop skills in synthesising information from a range of sources and learn to critically evaluate various hypotheses about human behaviour and culture. |
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| Introduction to Primate and Human Evolution | 15 | |
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The module provides an introduction to the biological evidence for primate and human evolution, as well as to the ways in which this evidence has been analysed and interpreted. The anatomy of various primate and hominid species is considered from the perspective of reconstructing both primate and human evolutionary history and the evolution of primate and human behaviour. We will examine key fossil discoveries with reference to reconstructions of the environment and the archaeological record. We will thereby produce a synthesis of primate and evolution and human origins, which covers the period from the Eocene to Homo sapiens, and considers fossil evidence from the African Rift Valley to Europe and Asia and species from Adapidae to Homo, providing anatomical and evolutionary background to the emergence of a tool-using hominid species. |
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| Themes in Social Anthropology | 15 | |
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This module will introduce students to several key themes within social anthropology, which have been the subject of debate for decades. In each case the boundaries of the debate will be established and the key readings (especially ethnographies) considered, and the relationship of these debates to other disciplines. They will then be considered in a group discussion. Themes will be drawn from a broad list of possible topics. These include: kinship; gender, material culture and technology, globalisation, landscape and environment, ‘anthropology at home’, belief, magic and ritual, culture, or politics. The emphasis will be on contestation and recent ethnography. |
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| Introduction to Archaeology | 15 | |
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This module forms an introduction to the principles and methods upon which the study of archaeology is based. No prior knowledge of the subject is assumed or expected. The philosophical distinctiveness of the subject is outlined, and the various sub-divisions within archaeology (e.g. environmental archaeology, experimental archaeology) are examined. This leads on to an assessment of the methods of establishing chronological sequences in archaeology, and an overview of the methods to be examined in more detail in later modules. These thematic lectures are buttressed by the use of sessions looking at case studies of recent research projects within the Department in order to help draw together and assist understanding of the key themes. Parallel study skills sessions alongside this lecture series allow you to develop quickly the key skills needed in an HE environment. |
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| Archaeology of the Historic Period | 15 | |
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This module provides a brief conspectus of the historical period from the emergence of civilizations through to the present day. The world context is emphasised and the major developments in each period will be explored. The module is illustrated throughout by case studies through which students can appreciate how ideas about these cultures have developed from the beginnings of antiquarian archaeology to the application of modern theory. Key conceptual issues, such as exchange/trade, colonisation, political, religious and social developments, will be explained and discussed in relation to specific examples. |
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| World Prehistory | 15 | |
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This module provides an introduction to the development of humans from hominid origins to the development of written forms of communication. Therefore, although the module has a single chronological starting point (c 7.5 my BP), it has a variable end point depending upon the part of the world under discussion. The module addresses the main stages of human evolution and development, starting with the separation from the Honinidae (the human family) from the Pongidae (the apes), the transition from Australopithecines to Homo and eventually to modern humans, and covering the origins and development of crucial human processes such as technology, social systems, art, farming and urbanisation. The significance of the independent invention of key developments (such as agriculture) in different parts of the world will be stressed. By these means, the student will gain a greater awareness of the main sequences of human development on a world scale, be able to better appreciate the 'time lines' of the prehistoric periods and will understand how the prehistory of the British Isles is a connected sub-set of that of both continental Europe and the world as a whole. |
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| Introduction to Material Culture | 15 | |
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Archaeologists deal with things. These things (material culture or artefacts) are a way of understanding the lives of the humans who made them. This course presents you with a detailed background to the main categories of material culture that you might encounter on any archaeological sites; these items include: stone tools, pottery, coins, metalwork etc. You will learn about the technology behind these artefacts, and crucially how things that we make do not just have a simple function, but also encode important symbolic information as well. By the end of this course you will look afresh at the way humans make and give meaning to even the most mundane and everyday items. |
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Year 2 (Level 5)
Modules Credits
| Excavation | 15 | |
| Thinking Through Theory | 15 | |
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All humanities subjects are grounded in theory. These bodies of theory may or may not be explicitly stated, but you use them, whether you are aware of them or not. It is easiest to think of theory as the set of tools that you can use to ‘fix’ or understand a problem. This module considers contemporary theory in archaeology, social anthropology and biological anthropology, drawing on areas of social and cultural theory that have been relevant to archaeologists and anthropologists. You will be encouraged to read and discuss a range of key historical texts and case studies will be used to demonstrate how the theories have been applied in recent archaeological or anthropological research. In this way, you will be able to understand the appropriateness of theories which may be relevant to your research interests and to gain a wider appreciation of how we think through problems and issues. |
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| Biology and Society | 15 | |
| Anthropology of Art and Visual Culture | 15 | |
| Using Theory and Method in Anthropology | 15 | |
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This module encourages you to apply theoretical and methodological approaches in archaeology and anthropology to your own research design. The module will refer to key theoretical approaches, and will introduce key methods for archaeological and anthropological research. You will explore a range of sources of information, and a variety of methods for gathering data in both archaeological and anthropological research. You will also examine in depth how independent research is designed and carried out, including the process of research design, ethical considerations, methodological choices, data gathering, data analysis and writing. By the end of the module you should have a sound understanding of how archaeological and anthropological research is designed and carried out in order to apply this to your own research. |
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| Year 2 Optional Modules | ||
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Optional Credits
| Excavation | 15 | |
| Thinking Through Theory | 15 | |
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All humanities subjects are grounded in theory. These bodies of theory may or may not be explicitly stated, but you use them, whether you are aware of them or not. It is easiest to think of theory as the set of tools that you can use to ‘fix’ or understand a problem. This module considers contemporary theory in archaeology, social anthropology and biological anthropology, drawing on areas of social and cultural theory that have been relevant to archaeologists and anthropologists. You will be encouraged to read and discuss a range of key historical texts and case studies will be used to demonstrate how the theories have been applied in recent archaeological or anthropological research. In this way, you will be able to understand the appropriateness of theories which may be relevant to your research interests and to gain a wider appreciation of how we think through problems and issues. |
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| Biology and Society | 15 | |
| Anthropology of Art and Visual Culture | 15 | |
| Using Theory and Method in Anthropology | 15 | |
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This module encourages you to apply theoretical and methodological approaches in archaeology and anthropology to your own research design. The module will refer to key theoretical approaches, and will introduce key methods for archaeological and anthropological research. You will explore a range of sources of information, and a variety of methods for gathering data in both archaeological and anthropological research. You will also examine in depth how independent research is designed and carried out, including the process of research design, ethical considerations, methodological choices, data gathering, data analysis and writing. By the end of the module you should have a sound understanding of how archaeological and anthropological research is designed and carried out in order to apply this to your own research. |
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| Year 2 Optional Modules | ||
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Year 3 (Level 6)
Modules Credits
| Placement (Extended Independent Study)* | 30 | |
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*Students will choose either the Extended Independent Study in Anthropology module or the Extended Independent Study in Archaeology module or the Placement (Extended Independent Study) module. |
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| Extended Independent Study in Anthropology* | 30 | |
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*Students will choose either the Extended Independent Study in Anthropology module or the Extended Independent Study in Archaeology module or the Placement (Extended Independent Study) module. |
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| Extended Independent Study in Archaeology* | 30 | |
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*Students will choose either the Extended Independent Study in Anthropology module or the Extended Independent Study in Archaeology module or the Placement (Extended Independent Study) module. |
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| Specialism in Social Anthropology or Biological Anthropology | 15 | |
| Communicating and Applying Anthropology | 15 | |
| Year 3 Optional Modules | ||
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Optional Credits
| Placement (Extended Independent Study)* | 30 | |
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*Students will choose either the Extended Independent Study in Anthropology module or the Extended Independent Study in Archaeology module or the Placement (Extended Independent Study) module. |
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| Extended Independent Study in Anthropology* | 30 | |
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*Students will choose either the Extended Independent Study in Anthropology module or the Extended Independent Study in Archaeology module or the Placement (Extended Independent Study) module. |
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| Extended Independent Study in Archaeology* | 30 | |
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*Students will choose either the Extended Independent Study in Anthropology module or the Extended Independent Study in Archaeology module or the Placement (Extended Independent Study) module. |
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| Specialism in Social Anthropology or Biological Anthropology | 15 | |
| Communicating and Applying Anthropology | 15 | |
| Year 3 Optional Modules | ||
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Please note the modules listed are correct at the time of publishing, for full-time students entering the programme in Year 1. Optional modules are listed where applicable. Please note the University cannot guarantee the availability of all modules listed and modules may be subject to change. For further information please refer to the terms and conditions at www.winchester.ac.uk/termsandconditions.
The University will notify applicants of any changes made to the core modules listed above.
Progression from one level of the programme to the next is subject to meeting the University’s academic regulations.
2024 Course Tuition Fees
| UK / Channel Islands / Isle of Man / Republic of Ireland |
International |
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|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | £9,250 | £16,700 |
| Year 2 | £9,250 | £16,700 |
| Year 3 | £9,250 | £16,700 |
| Total | £27,750 | £50,100 |
| Optional Sandwich Year* | £1,850 | £3,340 |
| Total with Sandwich Year | £29,600 | £53,440 |
If you are a UK student starting your degree in September 2024, the first year will cost you £9,250**. Based on this fee level, the indicative fees for a three-year degree would be £27,750 for UK students.
Remember, you don't have to pay any of this upfront if you are able to get a tuition fee loan from the UK Government to cover the full cost of your fees each year. If finance is a worry for you, we are here to help. Take a look at the range of support we have on offer. This is a great investment you are making in your future, so make sure you know what is on offer to support you.
UK Part-Time fees are calculated on a pro rata basis of the full-time fee for a 120 credit course. The fee for a single credit is £77.08 and a 15 credit module is £1,156. Part-time students can take up to a maximum 90 credits per year, so the maximum fee in a given year will be the government permitted maximum fee of £6,935.
International part-time fees are calculated on a pro rata basis of the full-time fee for a 120 credit course. The fee for a single credit is £122.50 and a 15 credit module is £2,087.
* Please note that not all courses offer an optional sandwich year. To find out whether this course offers a sandwich year, please contact the programme leader for further information.
**The University of Winchester will charge the maximum approved tuition fee per year.
ADDITIONAL COSTS
As one of our students all of your teaching and assessments are included in your tuition fees, including, lectures/guest lectures and tutorials, seminars, laboratory sessions and specialist teaching facilities. You will also have access to a wide range of student support and IT services.
There might be additional costs you may encounter whilst studying.
Printing and Binding
The University is pleased to offer our students a printing allowance of £5 each academic year. This will print around 125 A4 (black and white) pages. If students wish to print more, printer credit can be topped up by the student. The University and Student Union are champions of sustainability and we ask all our students to consider the environmental impact before printing.
Optional
Anthropological field studies
In addition to the mandatory archaeological Excavation training, different options for further field studies in anthropology and archaeology exist over the course of the degree programme. These include week-long field trips as well as field research over the summer on university-led or independent field research projects. Students may have to cover project-specific costs, including travel, accommodation and subsistence for the duration of the project. At the highest end of this spectrum are the projects in Barbados (indicative cost is £1200 for two weeks); and Georgia (indicative cost is £1500 for four weeks). For the week-long field trip option costs would be between £150 and £300.
Scholarships, Bursaries and Awards
We have a variety of scholarship and bursaries available to support you financially with the cost of your course. To see if you’re eligible, please see our Scholarships and Awards page.
Key course details
- UCAS code
- L6V4
- Duration
- 3 years full-time; 6 years part-time
- Typical offer
- 104-120 points
- Location
- On campus, Winchester
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