University of Leicester

History and Archaeology BA

University of LeicesterLeicester, Campus-based

Course overview

The History and Archaeology BA will give you the chance to combine two disciplines that enhance our understanding of human societies and cultures in the past. This degree has particular emphasis on the medieval and modern periods, although you will also have the opportunity to study the deep past. You will examine both historical texts and material remains and consider the relationship between the two.

You will have the opportunity to take part in fieldwork and to develop a wide range of practical skills. We have specialist facilities and an outstanding range of equipment for hands-on teaching and research in science-based analytical techniques. You’ll benefit from our excellent facilities and nine specialist laboratories, including our refitted Osteology, Zooarchaeology, and Materials labs.

You will have the opportunity to gain experience with local heritage organisations, schools and our professional archaeological unit through Year 2 and 3 module placements, and our accredited internship programme. In the first two years of this degree you will split your time equally between the study of archaeology and history. In your third year your dissertation can be in either history or archaeology.

Other official national and international qualifications considered from across the world. You can review some of the qualifications we accept on our countries page and English Language equivalencies. If your qualification or country is not listed, please contact us for more information, including the name and result of the qualification you have studied.

Second year entry may be possible with suitable qualifications. If you don’t quite meet the above entry requirements, why not consider our Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities Foundation Year ? We welcome applications from motivated students whose predicted grades are slightly below our standard entry requirements.

We understand that predicted grades are not always an accurate reflection of your final results, and we’re happy

Key highlights

  • Particular emphasis on medieval and modern periods, plus the deep past
  • Examine historical texts alongside material remains and their relationship
  • Fieldwork opportunities to develop a wide range of practical skills
  • Nine specialist laboratories including Osteology, Zooarchaeology and Materials labs
  • Year 2 and 3 placements with heritage organisations, schools and archaeological unit
  • Accredited internship programme; dissertation in either history or archaeology

Entry requirements

  • A-level: ABB — A/AS-levels : ABB.
  • A-level: BBB — with EPQ; + EPQ at grade B
  • Access to HE Diploma: Pass — Pass relevant Diploma with 45 credits, 30 of which must be at Distinction
  • International Baccalaureate: 30 — International Baccalaureate : Pass Diploma with 30 points.
  • BTEC: DDM — BTEC Nationals : Pass Diploma with DDM.
  • T-level: Merit — T Levels: Merit.

Scholarships

  • Chancellor’s International Scholarship

    This scholarship, worth £3,000 per year, reflects the University’s commitment to attracting talented students from around the world.

    Up to £3,000

  • Choral Scholarships at Leicester Cathedral

    Leicester Cathedral offers three Choral Scholarships of £1,000 each year to University of Leicester students (undergraduates or postgraduates).

    Up to £1,000

  • Family Loyalty Discount

    10% discount on the tuition fee for each year of your course.

    Up to 10% of fees

  • International Citizens of Change Scholarship

    A £10,000 tuition fee discount will be awarded to 10 undergraduate international fee-paying students starting an undergraduate programme in September 2026 for each year of their course for up to three years.

    Up to £10,000

  • International Undergraduate Merit Scholarship

    This merit-based scholarship, worth £5,000 per year, is offered to international-fee-paying students applying for an undergraduate degree at the University of Leicester who achieve or exceed the academic grades outlined.

  • International Undergraduate Tuition Fee Waiver

  • Music Scholarship

    Music Scholarships of £500 are available for the academic year to cover the cost of music lessons for student musicians who are studying an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in any subject.

    Up to £500

  • Sanctuary Scholarships

    Each Sanctuary Scholarship consists of a tuition fee waiver, and a support package to be confirmed following assessment with our Welfare Service.

  • Sports Scholarships - The Talented Athlete Award

    Financial contribution on agreed items up to £500 (e.g., travel expenses, equipment, specialist coaching, nutritional advice).

Careers this course leads to

  • Field archaeologist
  • Heritage officer
  • Museum curator
  • Archivist
  • Historic environment officer
  • Secondary school history teacher

Cost of study

UK/Home: £9,790; £10,050 | International: £20,200

Admission

Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to University of Leicester, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.

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