Archaeology  (AES2)

Studying archaeology at UCD provides a transformative educational experience that enables students to use an understanding of the past to critically contribute to the issues of the present and the future. The degree provides knowledge of the archaeology of Ireland in its global context, a broad range of the archaeological skills required to discover the past, and an appreciation of cultural diversity over space and time. It develops key transferable skills, encourages critical thinking, and creates a solid foundation for further study. The programme is aimed at students of all ages and backgrounds who are interested in the study of human culture, societies and environments over time, as well as those with a specific interest in archaeology as a profession. Archaeology is interdisciplinary, bridging the humanities and social sciences as well as the biological, earth, and physical sciences. It combines an exciting and varied range of approaches that develop knowledge about, and value for, our archaeological heritage. This includes collaborative and independent research, practical and theoretical approaches, always emphasising the importance of evidence-based research and engaging multiple forms of intelligence. Individual development and self-discovery is a key component of archaeological training, as is sharing experiences and values as part of a team.

Our teaching programme focuses on both Irish and international material, integrating the latest research carried out by staff to highlight Ireland’s important position within the global archaeological community. We use a range of learning approaches, from traditional lectures and seminars to fieldtrips, laboratory and practical elements; our students engage with key archaeological sites and landscapes within Ireland and overseas through field-based teaching across a range of modules. Assessment strategies are varied, ranging from traditional essays to project plans, poster presentations and reflexive field journals. Field teaching is an essential part of archaeology, and a number of modules have elements of fieldwork, including the School’s ongoing summer field excavation.

1 - Have an advanced understanding of the latest international archaeological practice and research
2 - Have an understanding of key changes in human society globally from prehistory to the present day, and how this influences the modern world
3 - Reflect on the roles of archaeology and the past in modern society, the value of heritage and the context of appropriate legislation
4 - Have a detailed knowledge of Ireland’s internationally-renowned archaeological record, underpinned by the global context
5 - Apply discipline-specific archaeological skills and approaches, such as archaeological fieldwork or laboratory techniques
6 - Participate effectively in archaeological projects
7 - Gather, evaluate and interpret archaeological information transforming this into knowledge by locating it within its interdisciplinary context
8 - Conduct independent and self-planned evidence-based research, reflectively using appropriate professional methodologies and equipment
9 - Communicate effectively through written, visual and oral media to specialist and non-specialist audiences
10 - Work within large or small teams and independently, leading and being part of a team as appropriate
11 - Gain experience in professional practice through work placement

Stage 3

Please ensure that you register to a minimum of 50 credits from the option list below. Please note that there are 5 and 10 credit modules available – this means that you may need to choose more than the minimum requirements in order to choose 50 credits. If you are studying abroad (Erasmus/non EU exchange) and/or undertaking an internship, please see registration guidelines here.

Stage 4

Please ensure that you register to a minimum of 50 credits overall for stage 4. You must select 25 credits of option modules. A minimum of 20 credits can be chosen from list A, the remaining 5 credits of options can be chosen from list A OR list B. Please note that there are 5 and 10 credit modules available.

In order to complete your Undergraduate degree, you must earn at least 40 credits at level 3 or above. It is your responsibility to ensure that you meet this requirement.

See the UCD Assessment website for further details

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Module Weighting Info