Social Anthropology and Archaeology

Social Anthropology and Archaeology seek to understand the nature of human societies, the material worlds they inhabit and the extraordinary variety of cultural life over time.

This integrated undergraduate degree programme is run jointly by the Department of Classics, Ancient History and Archaeology, and the Department of African Studies and Anthropology, who together provide an exceptionally diverse and dynamic learning environment. It is designed both for future archaeologists and anthropologists and for those seeking an exciting and dynamic non-vocational degree course.

Every aspect of human experience and expression is open to archaeological and anthropological enquiry, including ritual and religion, social organisation, art, architecture, music, mythology, dress, identity, technology, health, violence, migration, economy, and landscape. Each discipline complements and enriches the other and, in combination, guide contemporary understanding of global human culture and its diverse forms, achievements and changing character.

In this degree programme there is great emphasis on student choice, small-group teaching, individual research and thematic study. Areas of study in the course are diverse and the coverage global, ranging from Europe to Africa, Asia and the Americas, and embraces all human cultural life from the Palaeolithic to the present day.

Why study this course?

Exceptional learning resources – You will have access to a range of learning resources including environmental and material culture teaching collections at the University of Birmingham; the Classics, Ancient History and Archaeology Museum; the Eton Myers Collection and the Danford Collection of African art and artefacts.

Field work opportunities – There are many opportunities to take part in undergraduate field work and develop your practical archaeology experience. Recent digs include a middle-saxon site in nearby Shropshire and a long-term project to uncover an imperial palace in Carnuntum, Austria.

Be a part of an exciting department – You will join a lively environment with many opportunities to enhance your student experience, including the highly active Birmingham Ancient History, Classics and Archaeology Society (BACAS), which organises events such as film nights and museum trips throughout the academic year.

Get a head start in the graduate market - Alongside practical research experience, you will gain critical and transferable skills that open up a broad range of career opportunities. You can also take advantage of our work-based placements and employability focused modules available to all our students.

Learn in a supportive environment - You will receive personalised support on coursework and feedback. The relatively small size of the department means that you will get to know your academics on a personal level.

Top 15 for Anthropology and Archaeology in the Complete University Guide 2024

16th for Anthropology and Archaeology in the Guardian League Table 2024