Undergraduate Advanced Diploma in Archaeology

Course structure

Students will progress through two taught modules: a core module, Researching the past in Term 1, and a specialist option module in Term 2. In Term 3, students will carry out independent research on a topic agreed with the Course Director and write this up as a 10,000-word dissertation, while developing the critical, analytical and writing skills needed for further study or research-focused careers.

Term 1: Researching the past 

This core module explores the history and development of archaeology as a research discipline, examining changing trends in research and the ways in which archaeological knowledge is constructed. You will consider archaeological research in the 21st century, including current priorities and future directions, and develop an understanding of the principles and practice of archaeological research which you will later apply in your own dissertation research.

Term 2: Option module

You will select one specialist option module to study, led by a subject-area expert. Building on the learning from Term 1, you will explore how archaeological research has developed knowledge and understanding within a particular area of archaeology. You will examine the history and development of research in that area and explore, through case studies, how the principles and practices of archaeological research have been applied. Throughout the module, you will engage critically with evidence and interpretations, from foundational studies to cutting-edge research.

Term 3: Independent research and dissertation

You will undertake an independent archaeological research project, bringing together and applying the knowledge and skills developed during Terms 1 and 2. The term will be dedicated to researching and writing your dissertation and you will be supported throughout the process by on-to-one tutorials with a dedicated supervisor. There will also be opportunities for skills development and peer learning.

This course is well suited to those with prior study in archaeology or a related discipline who are ready to progress to more advanced, independent work. Taught at third-year undergraduate level, it offers the opportunity to develop research skills, critical thinking and intellectual confidence.

Delivered primarily online, the programme enables you to study flexibly from anywhere in the world while remaining part of a supportive and engaged academic community.

As a part-time course, it has been designed with adult learners in mind, making it possible to pursue serious academic study alongside professional, personal and family commitments.

What will you gain?

• Develop a critical understanding of archaeological research: explore how archaeological knowledge is constructed, evaluate different approaches to evidence and interpretation, and engage with the uncertainties, assumptions and limitations that shape our understanding of the past.
• Gain in-in depth knowledge of a specialist area of archaeology, engaging with key questions, debates and evidence, from foundational studies to cutting edge research.
• Develop the skills and confidence to undertake your own archaeological research and strengthen your critical, analytical, academic writing and digital skills, while learning to manage a substantial research project and communicate complex ideas effectively.
• Exchange ideas and develop questions with a group of like-minded peers sharing experience and knowledge from a range of archaeological contexts.

Online learning

This course is delivered primarily online through a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). The online, self-paced format will include reading materials, videos, audio, forum activities and online exercises. Students will work through five online units in the first two terms (one every two weeks), with units supporting dissertation research and writing in Term 3. Additional online units will help students develop their study skills, such as academic writing and interpreting feedback.

Throughout the year, you will also attend five live online group tutorials, providing opportunities for discussion, collaboration and peer learning with fellow students.

In-person learning

During the programme, you will attend a three-day intensive study school in Oxford, which includes field trips, practical classes and collaborative learning activities.

Dissertation supervision

As you develop your dissertation project, you will receive individual supervision to support the planning, research and writing process. These one-to-one supervision sessions can be arranged either online or in person.

Award and credit transfer

An Undergraduate Advanced Diploma will be awarded on completion of the course. You will be invited to celebrate at the annual Awards Ceremony, held at Oxford’s Sheldonian Theatre.

The syllabus and teaching of the course are aimed at third-year undergraduate level (FHEQ Level 6). Students who successfully complete this one-year course will be awarded an Oxford University Undergraduate Advanced Diploma in Archaeology, equivalent to 60 CATS points at third-year undergraduate level (FHEQ Level 6) in the Department’s Qualifications and Credit Framework. Outstanding performance will qualify for a Distinction.

Opportunities vary for the transfer of credit, so students who are considering taking this course in order to transfer credit are advised to discuss the possibilities with the Course Administrator on undergraduate@conted.ox.ac.uk.

Learn more about the Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme (CATS points).

The Course Director is Dr Jade Whitlam.

Alongside Dr Whitlam, the teaching team includes a number of experienced tutors with expertise both in their subject areas and in teaching adult learners. They understand the needs of students returning to education and can provide guidance on subject-specific study skills throughout the programme.

In addition, academic literacy and academic English courses are available to help you develop and strengthen the academic skills needed for successful study at this level.

Most assessments take the form of written work and are designed to reflect professional practice in archaeology. Formative assessment is embedded throughout the course, providing regular opportunities to receive feedback and develop your skills before completing summative work.

Annual Schedule of Assessment (Provisional)

Term 1

• Formative assignment (1,500 words)
• Summative assignment (3,000 words)

Term 2

• Formative logbook (1,500 words)
• Summative assignment (3,000 words)

Term 3

• Formative dissertation presentation (10-15 minutes, or academic poster)
• Dissertation research project (10,000 words)

There are no formal entry requirements for this course, but we would expect students to have some level of prior experience studying archaeology (or a related discipline) in an academic context or relevant practical experience.

IT requirements

Students are expected to have some IT skills, and access to a computer and the internet. IT skills related to archaeology are built into the programme using exercises to build and test your skills. The computer you use should meet our recommended minimum computer specification.

English language requirements 

Please check the information on the specific English language requirements for this course. Applicants are required to have higher-level scores. 

Fees for 2027-28 will be £3,945 (Home, Islands, and Republic of Ireland students) or £7,445 (Overseas students).

Please be aware that fees will usually increase annually.

Information for Applicants from the EU, EEA and Switzerland

On 11 May 2021, the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) published new regulations and guidance for assessing student fee status for courses commencing from August 2021 onwards. The University will use this guidance when assessing fee status for students starting courses in 2027–28 and later, including applicants from the EU, EEA and Switzerland.

If you are an EU national and do not live in the UK, you are likely to be charged Overseas fees. Students with settled or pre-settled status in the UK, and certain other categories of students working in the UK, may qualify for Home fee status provided they meet the relevant residence requirements.

Students from Outside the UK and Republic of Ireland

If you are from outside the UK or Republic of Ireland, you will normally be classified as either an Overseas or Islands student for fee purposes.

Information about financial support and funding opportunities can be found on our funding page.

Financial Declaration

All undergraduate offer holders are required to complete a Financial Declaration Form (FDF) to demonstrate how they will meet the financial conditions of admission.

If you are offered a place on this course, you will be asked to submit a completed Financial Declaration Form. The form demonstrates that you can, or are likely to be able to, meet the costs associated with your studies. The Financial Declaration Form must be approved before you can be considered to have met the conditions of your offer.

Click the ‘Apply’ button to automatically receive details on how to submit your application, including further guidance.

You should allow plenty of time to complete the application form and upload any supporting documents required. You should also allow sufficient time for your referee(s) to submit their reference by the application deadline.

You will need to upload the following documents as part of your application:

• A statement of approximately 300 words outlining any previous experience of archaeology or a related subject, together with your reasons for wishing to enrol on the course.
• Contact details for one referee; who must not be a family member.
• Proof of English language ability, if English is your second language. Further information on English language requirements can be found here. Please note that candidates are required to have the higher-level score.

Application deadlines

• Thursday 11 February 2027, 12:00 GMT
• Thursday 03 June 2027, 12:00 BST

Referees

If possible, your referee should be someone who can comment on your academic ability and background. Where this is not appropriate, please choose a referee who can vouch for your motivation, commitment and potential. References from friends or family members cannot be accepted.

Admissions decisions are based on an assessment of your knowledge, relevant experience, academic ability, potential and suitability for study. We welcome applications from candidates who may not hold traditional qualifications but can demonstrate relevant professional experience or transferable skills.

Selection Criteria

Even where a course has no formal academic entry requirements:

• each applicant’s academic ability and suitability for the course will be assessed; and
• where applications exceed the number of places available, all applications will be considered competitively against the wider applicant pool for that year.

The University is committed to promoting diversity, equality, inclusion and widening participation. We fully endorse the Equality Policy, and admissions procedures are reviewed regularly to ensure compliance with these principles.

• Shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend an online interview.
• The final decision on admission to the course rests with the Department.

Contact us

If you have unanswered questions or would like an informal discussion on academic matters before applying, you may contact: 

• Course Director, Dr Jade Whitlam:  jade.whitlam@conted.ox.ac.uk 

• For general guidance, application and admissions advice, course specific information, or credit transfer: undergraduate@conted.ox.ac.uk, +44 (0)1865 280882. 

• For information about disability support or sources of funding: student.support@conted.ox.ac.uk, +44 (0)1865 280355.