Our BA in Ancient History and Archaeology allows you to combine and pursue your interests in the history and archaeology of the ancient world. We will equip you to study the Greek and Roman past through both textual and archaeological evidence, from Greek pottery to Roman inscriptions, and ancient cities to classical authors. You will acquire critical and analytical skills, utilizing the full range of evidence that survives from the ancient Greek and Roman worlds. You will study a broad chronological and geographical sweep, with topics including the rise of the Greek city-states, Classical Athens, the foundations of the Roman Empire, the transformation of the Roman Empire in Late Antiquity, and the Byzantine Empire from the foundation of Constantinople to the medieval period. The study of archaeology develops the ability to understand how people lived, acted, and thought in the past. You will learn the essential analytical techniques of archaeology to develop your understanding of the relationship between theory and practice in the interpretation of material remains. Practical archaeological experience is a key element of this degree. This program is ideal if you are interested in understanding the ancient past through people's relationships with words, texts, objects, buildings, and places. We will give you access to a wide range of textual, graphical, and material evidence and develop your ability to interpret and process that data. We will also encourage you to question accepted histories, so you can construct and present convincing historical and archaeological arguments using texts, images, and material objects and remains as evidence.
Graduates can pursue careers in archaeology, conservation, education, and local and national government roles. Possible professions include:
archaeologist
heritage manager
museum/gallery curator.
This degree will provide you with a host of transferable skills, including the analysis and critique of complex archaeological and textual sources.
We offer a comprehensive Careers Service - Birkbeck Futures - your career partner during your time at Birkbeck and beyond. At every stage of your career journey, we empower you to take ownership of your future, helping you to make the connection between your experience, education, and future ambitions.