University of Leicester

Archaeology BA, DipHE, CertHE, by distance learning

University of Leicester

Course overview

This course will introduce you to key themes in the study of archaeology and enable you to further your knowledge of the wide chronological and geographical range of the discipline. You will develop your ability to draw upon appropriate archaeological theories, methods, techniques and concepts in order to develop your understanding of the past. We have been successfully teaching distance learning courses to students around the world since 1996.

This course is based on our extensive experience in developing and teaching archaeology and our world-leading research. Our modules are designed to inspire you and enable you to gain a wider knowledge of your chosen topic. We will provide you with an intellectually challenging and stimulating curriculum that draws on the expertise of staff from the School of Archaeology and Ancient History.

We have a proven track record of successfully delivering distance learning courses that will help you gain the transferable skills necessary for successful career development or further academic study. As a result, our courses are highly valued by employers, who recognise the key transferable and subject-specific skills gained. Throughout your degree there are several opportunities for you to develop and enhance your practical skills through fieldwork and laboratory work.

This course is the only distance learning Archaeology degree in the UK to receive joint accreditation from the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA) and the University Archaeology UK group (UAUK), providing a recognised path to professional archaeological careers. If you know from the outset that you can’t, or don’t want to, commit to a full BA, you can apply for the Certificate or Diploma only. Similarly, if for any reason, after you have applied, you are unable to complete the full BA course, you can opt to leave at the end of Level 1 with a Certificate or at the end of Level 2 with a Diploma.

If you have studied Archaeology at undergraduate level before, it may

Key highlights

  • Only UK distance learning archaeology degree with joint CIfA and UAUK accreditation
  • Recognised path into professional archaeological careers
  • Fieldwork and laboratory work opportunities to build practical skills
  • Exit with a Certificate after Level 1 or Diploma after Level 2
  • Distance learning taught to students worldwide since 1996
  • Covers a wide chronological and geographical range of archaeology

Entry requirements

  • IELTS: 6.5 — 6.5 IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.

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
  • Historic environment record officer
  • Archaeological consultant
  • Conservation officer

Cost of study

UK/Home: £21,945; £14,715; £7,465; £1,285 | International: £21,945; £14,715; £7,465; £1,285

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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