Ancient History and Archaeology

Course Summary
This Joint Honours degree enables you to combine Ancient History modules from the Department of Classics and Ancient History with those offered by the Department of Archaeology.
The balance is broadly equal, but as you progress through your course you will have several opportunities to follow your particular interests in one or both areas.
Studying on this course will allow you to fully explore the connections between archaeological discovery and historical context.

Why Durham University?
Gain an understanding of the present by unlocking the past. Combine academic theory with lab and fieldwork and the examination of historic objects when you study in this world-leading Department at the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Archaeology at Durham is an exciting and diverse discipline that delves into the past to inform our understanding of the modern world.
Flexibility - We offer a range of single and joint honours BA and BSc degrees with flexible pathways to suit your interests and career goals, and most courses include the possibility of a work placement or year abroad.

Rankings
3rd in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025
4th in The Complete University Guide 2025
6th in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025

Career Opportunities
Archaeology
Our close links with industry specialists coupled with in-house archaeological facilities give you a taste of the industry from the beginning of the course.
This broad-based discipline can take you into many different careers. This experience helps develop a broad range of subject-specific skills from osteology, geochemistry and the conservation of archaeological objects, to survey and remote sensing techniques and applications for Geographic Information Systems.
Our graduates work for organisations all over the world, from national and international heritage organisations, museums, environmental agencies, and commercial archaeological services to law and publishing, forensic science, teaching, tourism, and local and national government.

Classics and Ancient History
Our students acquire many skills which are readily transferable to a whole range of professions.
You will learn to search for, gather, and process information, to evaluate evidence and to express yourself clearly and succinctly, both verbally and in writing.
Classics graduates have progressed to careers as diverse as computing, the Civil Service, gold dealing, teaching, journalism, law, accountancy, public relations and the theatre.