University of Leicester

Archaeology BSc

University of LeicesterLeicester, Campus-based

Course overview

With our Archaeology BSc, you will gain knowledge of the professional archaeological sector, and receive exceptional training in professional archaeological skills from our in-house archaeological unit ULAS, who made the world-famous discovery of Richard III. Leicester is one of a few universities in the country to have an Archaeology BSc accredited by the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA) and University Archaeology UK (UAUK). This means you’ll graduate with a qualification widely recognised as the first step on a career pathway leading to professional status.

Practical experience is a key part of the course. You will participate in excavation and various forms of fieldwork throughout your degree to ensure that your skills are continually used and developed. You’ll benefit from our excellent facilities and nine specialist laboratories, including our refitted Osteology, Zooarchaeology, and Materials labs.

You will have the chance to study many periods, regions and techniques during your time here. Our staff have particular expertise in Roman archaeology, prehistory, historical archaeology, commercial archaeology, archaeological theory, and the archaeological sciences, as well as all aspects of Classical (Greek and Roman) history. At the end of your first year you can choose to transfer to the Archaeology BA.

In year one, our BA and BSc follow the same structure, providing you with a broad introduction to archaeology. You then specialise in the second and the third year. This means that there is flexibility to change course at the end of the first year if you change your mind about which is best for you.

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 stud

Key highlights

  • Accredited by the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists and University Archaeology UK
  • Professional skills training from ULAS, the unit that found Richard III
  • Excavation and fieldwork throughout the degree to build practical skills
  • Nine specialist laboratories, including refitted Osteology, Zooarchaeology and Materials labs
  • Staff expertise spans Roman archaeology, prehistory and archaeological sciences
  • Option to transfer to the Archaeology BA after first year

Entry requirements

  • A-level: BBB — A/AS-levels : BBB.
  • A-level: BBC — with EPQ; + EPQ at grade B
  • Access to HE Diploma: Pass — Pass Diploma with 45 credits at level 3, 24 of which must be at Distinction
  • International Baccalaureate: 28 — International Baccalaureate : Pass Diploma with 28 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
  • Archaeological scientist
  • Osteoarchaeologist
  • Heritage consultant
  • Museum curator
  • Historic environment officer

Cost of study

UK/Home: £9,790; £10,050 | International: £21,950

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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