Archaeology with Forensic Science with Study Abroad BSc

The modules we outline here provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.

At each year of study you are based at the University of Exeter (i.e. excluding your year abroad), you may take optional modules up to 30 credits outside of the programme as long as any necessary prerequisites have been satisfied, where the timetable allows and if you have not already taken the module in question or an equivalent module.

The modules are designed like building blocks, with modules at later stages building on the work of the preceding stage, helping you to progressively develop your academic skills. The ‘level’ of a module within these stages is designated by the first number in the module code; you will find that your work becomes more specialized as it becomes more advanced. The availability of all modules as options is subject to timetable and staffing constraints, and to permission from the relevant Director of Education.

Assessment marks obtained in Year 1 do not contribute to the overall mark for the summative classification of the award, although 90 credits must be awarded for progression to Year 2. The overall mark for the summative degree assessment is calculated from the marks for Years 2, 3 and 4, which are weighted in the ratio 2:1:4.

The programme is offered as a four-year Single Honours programme leading to the degree of BA with Honours. In Years 1, 2 and 4 students take a combination of core and optional modules. Students spend Year 3 abroad at an agreed partner institution; the academic structure of this year will be as organized by the institution in question and students are expected to fully participate in the activities of the host institution.

In your first year, the modules you take will give you a solid grounding in the techniques of archaeology and Forensic Science.

In the second year you will advance your grasp of archaeological and forensic science knowledge and methods through a set of compulsory modules, including fieldwork. Optional modules give you the flexibility to tailor your degree to your particular areas of interest.

Students spend this stage in a partner university on an Erasmus/Socrates exchange or other approved programme of study. The year abroad comprises 120 credits. Assessment is normally based on the credits gained at the partner institution abroad.

The centre-point of the final year is the dissertation. Many students find the dissertation the most rewarding part of their degree. It gives you the chance to carry out independent research in an area of most interest to you. You will also choose optional modules which may include a work placement.

For full module descriptions please visit the Archaeology website.