Ancient History and Classical Archaeology BA/Diploma/Certificate

This is for you if... you are fascinated by ancient and classical worlds and want the flexibility of studying by distance learning. You do not need previous experience of higher education or formal qualifications to enroll on this course.

Launched in 2012, our BA in Ancient History and Classical Archaeology brings together the two disciplines into a single undergraduate distance learning programme for the first time and as such we believe it is unique. The course is based on our extensive experience in developing and teaching both archaeology and ancient history courses and our world-leading research.

Our modules cross the traditional academic boundaries of archaeology and ancient history, enabling you to gain a wider knowledge in your chosen area. There are opportunities for you to develop and enhance your practical skills, and employability skills are embedded throughout our curriculum.

Consequently, our courses are highly valued by employers who will recognise the key transferable and subject-specific skills gained. Our courses will enable you to focus on your specific interest, and enable progression in archaeology, ancient history, museums, or elsewhere.

This course will:

• Enable you to pursue your personal interest in the classical world.
• Introduce you to key issues in the study of the past through textual and material remains and to reflect on the contrasting and complementary images that these approaches generate.
• Introduce you to two ancient languages.
• Ddevelop your skills in textual analysis and the interpretation of archaeological information.

We will provide you with an intellectually challenging and stimulating curriculum which draws on the full expertise of members of the School of Archaeology and Ancient History and our proven track record of delivering archaeology by distance learning and which will enable you to develop transferable skills necessary for successful career development or further academic study.

Course structure

The BA in Ancient History and Classical Archaeology is made up of three levels, with each level taking two years for part-time students to complete, or one year for full-time students. Each level consists of six modules, lasting 12 weeks each, with short breaks inbetween. Part-time students study each module in turn, whereas full-time students study two modules at a time.

Level 1 (part-time years 1 and 2; full-time year 1)

• Aims and Methods in Archaeology
• Introduction to Classical Archaeology
• Introduction to Roman History
• Introduction to Greek History
• Greek and Latin Language for Ancient History

Plus one of the following modules:

• Later Prehistory
• Archaeology of Egypt, Nubia and the Middle Nile

Level 2 (part-time years 3 and 4; full-time year 2)

• The Age of Augustus
• Deconstructing Sparta
• Greco-Roman Slavery
• The Archaeology of the Roman World
• Archaeological Theory

Plus one of the following modules:

• Fieldschool
• The Rise of States in the Old World
• The Medieval Mediterranean

Level 3 (part-time years 5 and 6; full-time year 3)

• Archaeology of Urbanism
• Archaeology, Religion and Belief
• Households and Families
• Empires and Imperialism Ancient and Modern
• Individual dissertation in ancient history or classical archaeology

Your learning experience

Each module consists of specially prepared self-study materials, which are delivered by post to your door and supplemented with additional material made available online through Blackboard, our virtual learning environment.

We recommend that you plan to set aside 15-20 hours study time per module per week. You will be allocated an academic tutor for each module. Your tutors are available by email or phone to provide advice on academic and study matters.

Wherever you are in the world, you will have access to University services, including the University’s David Wilson Library and its extensive range of electronic journals and e-books.

Modules are assessed by written coursework, usually in the form of essays or reports. There are no examinations and no requirements for you to attend the University campus for assessments.

Fieldwork and attendance on campus

There is no formal requirement for you to visit the University of Leicester campus during your studies. The optional Fieldschool module at Level 2 gives you the opportunity to get practical, hands-on experience in a number of aspects of survey and excavation.

You can participate in the week-long fieldschool that we organise each year atBurrough Hill in Leicestershire, or opt to make your own fieldwork arrangements. The Burrough Hill Fieldschool normally takes place at the end of June or beginning of July each year.

Entry requirements

Our distance learning Archaeology and Ancient History courses do not have formal entry requirements – you just need to demonstrate an active interest in the subject and a genuine commitment to putting the time in to study. For applicants whose first language is not English, evidence of a minimum standard of English is required as a condition of entry.