Archaeology and Ancient History

Transcription

1 School of Archaeology and Ancient History DISTANCE LEARNING COURSES IN Archaeology and Ancient History W I N N E R S

2 2 UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTER SCHOOL OF ARCHAEOLOGY AND ANCIENT HISTORY Welcome to the School of Archaeology and Ancient History We believe that our world-changing research produces high quality teaching and will inspire you to go further. The School of Archaeology and Ancient History is one of the leading research and teaching departments in the UK. We aim to push boundaries and consider knowledge and education to be a power for good. For example, in 2011 our discovery of structures built by the Garamantes in Libya s south-western desert challenged prevailing views of this ancient civilisation. We know our work is better in a shared academic community that includes you. You will have your own personal perspectives and ideas; your experience, energy and willingness to ask the difficult questions benefits you and us. At Leicester, staff and students work together to create a stimulating environment for learning and furthering our understanding of the past. Recent external national assessments have confirmed our position at the forefront of archaeology and ancient history. Our proportion of internationallyranked research places us second equal among UK archaeology departments and first equal among departments teaching both disciplines. This success is founded on our continuing commitment to students and to innovative, high-quality teaching. We have more than 20 specialist academic staff, a range of part-time and honorary lecturers and numerous research students, as well as technicians and administrators. The School also houses the University of Leicester Archaeological Services unit, ULAS, and our staff are involved in field projects in many parts of the world, as well as in the UK. The University of Leicester was founded in 1921 and we received our Royal Charter in Discover more:

3 DISTANCE LEARNING COURSES IN ARCHAEOLOGY AND ANCIENT HISTORY 3 Contents Why study archaeology and ancient history by distance learning at Leicester?...4 Which course should you choose?...6 Your Learning Experience...7 Undergraduate Courses...9 BA (Hons) Ancient History and Classical Archaeology...9 BA (Hons) Archaeology...15 Postgraduate Courses...19 MA in Archaeology and Heritage...19 MA in Historical Archaeology...20 MA in The Classical Mediterranean...21 PG Certificate...23 PG Diploma...23 Research...24 PhD...24 Entry requirements, fees and how to apply...25 Richard III found under a car park in Leicester Three years of amazingly satisfying study and a great deal of unexpected pleasure...one of the most rewarding experiences of my life so far. Jane Hatton (UK) Yes it is difficult when you are working but well worth the effort. The staff could not be more helpful totally geared up to help you in every way. Kath Stone (UK) I really enjoyed the course and found it enormously helpful. The staff are fantastic. Congratulations to you all for creating such a good course. Heidi Paffrath (Eire) How to apply Our application processes are designed to be user-friendly. Our staff are happy to advise if you have any queries about your application. Applying online is fast and straightforward. For undergraduate and postgraduate online applications, please visit: www2.le.ac.uk/study/ ways/distance/courses

4 4 UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTER SCHOOL OF ARCHAEOLOGY AND ANCIENT HISTORY Why study archaeology and ancient history by distance learning at Leicester? Research-led courses The recent discovery of the remains of Richard III under a car park in Leicester city centre has of course made world news. The varied contributions of different members of staff in the School show how different specialisms are drawn together in archaeology and ancient history to present a history-changing understanding of the finds. Experts in the study of human remains, ancient DNA, late medieval religious practices and buildings, and texts have all worked on the exciting story which has led to the identification of Richard III, the last Plantagenet King of England. All of our courses are based on our extensive experience in developing and teaching both archaeology and ancient history and our world-leading research. The outcome of the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) confirmed our place as one of the leading Archaeology and Ancient History departments in the UK. No less than 65% of our research was rated in the top two brackets of international excellence (4*, 3*). This proportion puts us second equal among UK Archaeology departments, and first equal among departments teaching both ancient history and archaeology. Our research strategy exploits the disciplinary mix within the School. Staff work all over the world on research projects in Britain, Ireland, France, Italy, Greece, central Europe, Egypt, Libya, North America, Iran, Syria, Pakistan, Southeast Asia, Venezuela and elsewhere. We cover all periods from the earliest humans to the recent past. This means you will be taught by staff at the leading edge of developments in your specific research area, allowing you to benefit from these developments as they occur. Excellent teaching We have an excellent track record for student satisfaction. Leicester s levels of student satisfaction have been consistently in the top 10 since the annual National Student Survey commenced in In 2011, the Department of Archaeology and Ancient History was rated 1st in the UK for student satisfaction. The University has won consecutive Times Higher Awards between 2007 and 2013, including recognition for its Outstanding Library Team, Outstanding Student Support, as well winning the prestigious University of the Year title. Leicester is the only university to win six consecutive awards.

5 DISTANCE LEARNING COURSES IN ARCHAEOLOGY AND ANCIENT HISTORY 5 Pioneering approach to distance learning The University of Leicester has more than 20 year s experience of offering high quality distance learning courses and we fully understand the specific needs of distance learning students, wherever they are based. The School of Archaeology and Ancient History pioneered archaeology distance learning with the introduction of our MA Archaeology and Heritage in 1997 and we have been going from strength to strength ever since. Structured, supportive framework for study Our courses are designed to be studied at a distance, giving you the flexibility to study from any location within a structured and supportive framework. Each of our modules is developed and written with the specific needs of distance learning students in mind and students from more than 25 countries have chosen to study archaeology and ancient history by distance learning with us. We provide excellent learning support, delivered by the same expert academics and professionals as our on-campus courses. Because we understand that many of our students are combining study with demanding careers and family lives, we provide a range of entry and exit points onto our courses, along with the opportunity to move between full-time and part-time study if circumstances change. Career Progression Our courses have been designed to enable you to develop your skills and knowledge, whether you wish to study to enhance your career prospects, proceed to further study, or for general interest. Our modules cross the traditional academic boundaries of archaeology and ancient history, enabling you to gain a wider knowledge in your chosen area. There are opportunities for you to develop and enhance your practical skills, and employability skills are embedded throughout our curriculum. Consequently, our courses are highly valued by employers who will recognise the key transferable and subject-specific skills gained. Our courses will enable you to focus on your specific interest, and enable progression in archaeology, ancient history, or elsewhere. The University s Career Development Service offers a comprehensive range of support to all students. See

6 6 UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTER SCHOOL OF ARCHAEOLOGY AND ANCIENT HISTORY Which course should you choose? Whatever your educational background, we are confident that we have a course to suit you. Our suite of courses is designed to enable progression through the full range of levels of UK higher education qualifications or to choose the level which is most appropriate for your educational background and aspirations. You don t need to have studied archaeology before to do one of our undergraduate courses; you just need to have an active interest in archaeology and ancient history and a genuine commitment to studying by distance learning. BA Our BA (Bachelor of Arts) courses are undergraduate level courses. They will be suitable for you if you would like to study for a recognised University qualification but do not have previous experience of higher education or formal qualifications. You should consider taking one of our BA courses if you want an introduction to archaeology, or archaeology and ancient history, and to develop and enhance your study skills. MA Our MA (Master of Arts) courses are postgraduate level courses. They will be suitable for you if you already have an undergraduate degree or are already an archaeology professional with relevant skills and experience. You should consider taking one of our MA courses if you want to enhance your existing knowledge of archaeology or study for an advanced qualification. PhD Our PhD programme is the most advanced level of study that we offer. You should consider taking our PhD by distance learning if you want to become a professional researcher in archaeology or ancient history, or if you want to demonstrate that you have the full range of theoretical and practical skills at the highest levels. For more information about the specific entry requirements for each course, see page 26. Short Courses Perhaps you don t want a formal qualification, but would just like to study archaeology or ancient history for interest. It is possible to study up to two undergraduate level 1 modules without registering for a formal qualification; or up to two level 2 modules if you already have 120 credits in archaeology or a cognate subject at level 1. Successful completion of an associate module will entitle you to a transcript formally recording your achievement and you may be able to count the credits achieved on that module towards further undergraduate study at Leicester or elsewhere at a later date. For details of the associate modules available for study please see pages and

7 DISTANCE LEARNING COURSES IN ARCHAEOLOGY AND ANCIENT HISTORY 7 Your Learning Experience Course Structure Each course is made up of a series of modules, lasting 12 weeks (undergraduate courses) or 15 weeks (postgraduate courses) with short breaks in between. Part-time students study one module at a time. There are three start dates per year, in February, June and October. Accelerated Study It may be possible to study at a faster pace than detailed here for our part-time undergraduate courses. If you are interested in hearing more about this and what the possibilities are, please contact us at Arts.HumsDL@le.ac.uk or telephone +44 (0) / 5365 to discuss this further. Undergraduate Courses 6 years part-time BA Ancient History and Classical Archaeology BA Archaeology Postgraduate Courses 2 years part-time / 1 year full-time MA Archaeology and Heritage MA Historical Archaeology MA The Classical Mediterranean Doctoral research 5 years part-time PhD in Archaeology PhD in Ancient History Study Materials Each module consists of specially prepared self-study materials, which are delivered at the start of each module to your door and include: a workbook written specifically for the course by experts within the School of Archaeology and Ancient History s academic staff a selection of published textbooks extracts from books and journals. The workbooks consist of one section for each week of the module. These sections introduce topics and direct you towards relevant chapters in the textbooks supplied with the module as well as useful websites. These printed materials are also supplemented with additional material made available electronically through Blackboard, our virtual learning environment, and the library, to which you will have access for the duration of your course. Study Support You will be allocated an academic tutor for each module. Your tutors are available by or phone to provide advice on academic and study matters. You will have access to the University s award-winning David- Wilson Library. We invest over 6m a year in library resources. The Library s comprehensive online catalogue comprises thousands of electronic journals and 350,000 books. This includes the Leicester Research Archive, a digital collection of research papers and theses from members of the University. As a Leicester student, you will be able to access the online catalogue and download these resources free of charge wherever you are in the world. In 2012 the Library won the prestigious Times Higher Education Outstanding Library Team award. You are, of course, welcome to come onto campus and use our Library facilities at any time.

8 8 UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTER SCHOOL OF ARCHAEOLOGY AND ANCIENT HISTORY Study Time If you are studying on one of our undergraduate programmes you should plan to set aside 150 hours per 12-week module (about 12 hours per week). The dissertation is a double module. If you are studying on one of our postgraduate programmes you should plan to set aside 300 hours per 15-week module (about 20 hours per week). The dissertation is a double or triple module depending on which course structure you are following. In practice, however, most students find that the amount of time spent studying can vary slightly from module to module, and of course also depends on your own academic background and personal study habits. Assessments Modules are assessed by written coursework, usually in the form of essays or reports. There are no examinations. You will be provided with detailed written feedback on each piece of work that you submit for assessment. This allows you to see your progress, understand your strengths and identify areas for improvement. Throughout your studies academics will be on hand to provide tutorial support via or telephone and to give help and support when required. We also provide written study skills guidance on how to produce assignments. The final piece of assessment for BA and MA students is the dissertation. This is an original piece of research on a topic of your choosing relating to some aspect of one or more of the modules which has particularly caught your interest. You will be assigned a supervisor who will help you to identify the title and content of your dissertation and you will receive direct, one-to-one supervision throughout the period of your research. Visiting Leicester As a University of Leicester student you are entitled to visit the campus at any time and to make use of the facilities, although if you wish to see particular members of staff you would be encouraged to make arrangements for this in advance. In addition, we run various field schools and laboratory weeks which take place on campus and in the surrounding Leicestershire area. Visiting Leicester in this way is optional for some courses and compulsory for others. For more details see the individual course pages. Finally, students who successfully complete their BAs or MAs will be invited to attend a formal graduation ceremony in Leicester many of our students take this opportunity and bring their families along too so that they can see at firsthand the University that they belong to. Computer Access In order to get the most from your learning experience, you will need easy and regular access to a computer and the internet, so that you can access Blackboard and library facilities, view the websites referred to in your study materials, and write and submit your coursework.

9 DISTANCE LEARNING COURSES IN ARCHAEOLOGY AND ANCIENT HISTORY 9 Undergraduate Courses BA Our BA (Bachelor of Arts) courses are undergraduate level courses. They will be suitable for you if you would like to study for a recognised University qualification but do not have previous experience of higher education or formal qualifications. You should consider taking one of our BA courses if you want an introduction to archaeology, or archaeology and ancient history, and to develop and enhance your study skills. If you know from the outset that you can t or don t want to commit to a full BA, you can apply for level 1 (Certificate) or levels 1 and 2 (Diploma) only. Similarly, if for any reason you are unable to complete the full BA programme, you can opt to leave at the end of each level. Successful completion of level 1 entitles you to a Certificate or successful completion of levels 1 and 2 entitles you to a Diploma. If you don t want to register for a qualification at all, that s fine the modules are available as stand-alone modules for interest only. BA (Hons) Ancient History and Classical Archaeology Duration: 6 years part-time Start dates: February, June, October Course aims and objectives The aims of this course are to: introduce you to key issues in the study of the past through textual and material remains and to reflect on the contrasting and complementary images that these approaches generate develop your skills in textual analysis and the interpretation of archaeological information introduce you to two ancient languages enable you to pursue your personal interest in the classical world. We will provide you with an intellectually challenging and stimulating curriculum which draws on the full expertise of members of the School of Archaeology and Ancient History and our proven track record of delivering archaeology by distance learning and which will enable you to develop transferable skills necessary for successful career development or further academic study. Course Structure Level 1 (part-time years 1 and 2) * Aims and Methods in Archaeology CORE MODULE * Introduction to Classical Archaeology CORE MODULE * Introduction to Roman History CORE MODULE * Introduction to Greek History CORE MODULE * Greek and Latin Language for Ancient History CORE MODULE AND one of the following modules: Later Prehistory Archaeology of Egypt, Nubia and the Middle Nile Level 2 (part-time years 3 and 4) * Archaeological Theory CORE MODULE * Archaeology of the Roman World CORE MODULE * The Age of Augustus CORE MODULE * Deconstructing Sparta CORE MODULE * Greco-Roman Slavery CORE MODULE AND one of the following modules: The Medieval Mediterranean The Rise of States in the Old World Fieldschool Level 3 (part-time years 5 and 6) Archaeology of Urbanism CORE MODULE Archaeology, Religion and Belief CORE MODULE Households and Families in the Past CORE MODULE The Later Roman Empire CORE MODULE Individual Dissertation in Ancient History or Classical Archaeology CORE MODULE * Modules are taken in the above order with the exception of the Fieldwork option module which can be taken at any point of your level 2 studies upon agreement. Special features The course features an innovative and unusual opportunity to study beginners Greek and Latin languages through self-directed study and self-assessed tests through Blackboard The optional Fieldschool module gives you the opportunity to get practical, hands-on experience in a number of aspects of survey and excavation. You can participate in the fieldschool that we organise each summer at Bradgate Park in Leicestershire, or opt to make your own fieldwork arrangements (as long as we have given prior approval)

10 10 UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTER SCHOOL OF ARCHAEOLOGY AND ANCIENT HISTORY BA (Hons) Ancient History and Classical Archaeology Level One Aims and Methods in Archaeology core module This module provides an introduction to key ideas and issues, including a discussion of what archaeology actually is, and what archaeologists actually do. How do archaeologists find sites, and how do they get information from sites? How do archaeologists work out the date of a site? What are the common artefacts found on archaeological sites, and how are they analysed? These are the sorts of things we cover in this module, which provides a good foundation for moving on to the other modules at level 1 and beyond. Introduction to Classical Archaeology core module The archaeology of Ancient Greece begins by looking at what is often called the Dark Age or Archaic period, from BC, and continues into Classical Greece (the fifth and fourth centuries BC or approximately BC) up to Alexander the Great. This allows us to understand how such things as democracy, classical Greek Architecture and sculpture developed things that have had a huge impact on the western world as a whole. This module then looks at the rise of the Roman world, from its beginnings as a Republic, right through to the end of the Empire in the 4th century AD. Economy, trade, buildings, settlement, architecture and towns are all explored in order to understand what made the Roman world so successful. Introduction to Roman History core module There is a wealth of historical material relating to the Roman Republic and Empire, and this module guides us through the key texts showing how they allow us to build up a detailed picture not only of the narrative history of Rome itself, but also of the lives of the people of Rome and the Roman world. The main political events and their implications and repercussions are considered, and then the module looks at what the texts can tell us about such things as household structures and relationships and the differences between living in towns and cities and the countryside. Introduction to Greek History core module The foundations of Greek history are rooted in earlier developments in prehistory, which is where this module begins. Such major events as the Persian wars, the Peleponnesian wars and rise of Macedon are all covered here, and placed in the wider context of political and social changes within Greece, as well as linked to the wider contemporary Mediterranean world. Alexander the Great is one of the most notable figures in Greek History, and his legacy to Greece and other states he conquered is still apparent today. This module draws on wide ranging historical material to understand the development of classical Greece.

11 DISTANCE LEARNING COURSES IN ARCHAEOLOGY AND ANCIENT HISTORY 11 Greek and Latin Language for Ancient History core module This module covers the development of writing and alphabets, and gives an overview of the ways in which literacy changed the Greek and Roman worlds. The role of writing in religion, and the power that writing conferred both on individuals and certain groups in society are all investigated. Equally fascinating are explorations of the ways in which early societies calculated time and the effect this had on culture and politics. This module looks at the significance of language, writing and numeracy within both ancient Greece and Rome. Then choose ONE of Later Prehistory OR Archaeology of Egypt, Nubia and the Middle Nile. Later Prehistory This second module dealing with the prehistoric world explores the rise of metallurgy the production of copper, bronze and iron objects and how this changed the way people carried out trade and their connections across wide areas. This is the time when the first complex state societies emerged, and the first urbanised societies are evident in the archaeological record. Early states in Mesopotamia (now Iraq), the Indus (modern Pakistan and north-western India), China, and Egypt are reviewed, along with later prehistory in the Americas and south-east Asia. The Archaeology of Egypt, Nubia and the Middle Nile Egypt has always had very strong connections to areas to the south, such as Nubia (modern Sudan) and beyond, with the river Nile playing a key role in the movement of people, goods and ideas. In this module the main cultural and political developments in both Egypt and Nubia are explored, and the ways in which archaeology reflects the relationships between the two states is considered. As well as looking at the growth of the pyramids in Egypt and other evidence for complex social relations, the powerful Kingdom of Kush in southern Egypt and Sudan is much less well known, but equally fascinating, and is introduced in this module. Level Two Archaeological Theory core module How we think about people, societies, material culture and of course archaeology itself is all shaped by our theoretical approach, whether we think we have one or not. In this module we work through a whole range of different theories such as postmodernism, dualisms, and postprocessualism, as well as looking at the ways in which archaeology draws on different issues such as identity, globalisation, and representation in order to analyse and understand more about people in the past.

12 12 UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTER SCHOOL OF ARCHAEOLOGY AND ANCIENT HISTORY The Archaeology of the Roman World core module Beginning with a discussion about why the archaeological study of the Roman world is important, and worth carrying out, this module explores the city of Rome in some detail. This is followed by explorations of the archaeological evidence for a number of issues such as Roman religion, the expansion of the Roman Empire, and what Roman death and burial can tell us about life as a Roman. The concept of Romanisation is debated in some depth, along with other recent ways of understanding the power and domination that came with the Roman Empire in many parts of the known world. I sincerely enjoyed the University of Leicester DL program. You have a wonderful staff and an excellent program which allowed me to retain my employment with the National Park Service while furthering my education. The archaeological resources which I manage will directly benefit from my mini-dissertation research. In the future, I will certainly consider applying for the full MA program. Keith Lyons (USA) The Age of Augustus core module Augustus was the founder and first Emperor of the Roman Empire and he ruled from 27 BC until AD 14. Not only does this module consider some of the great achievements of his reign, it also looks at how he was able to create what is arguably one of the most significant political entities of the historical period. The impact of Rome and the Roman Empire is still felt today and the themes and topics covered here reflect this, ranging from the literature of this Golden Age through the ways in which Augustus obtained and maintained power, how the Empire was established and expanded, and the sorts of processes put in place for maintaining political form and power after his death. Studying by distance learning with Leicester is brilliant and much easier to fit in around work and everything else than attending a college. Sara O Connor (UK) Deconstructing Sparta core module All aspects of the concept of the ancient city-state of Sparta are investigated here, including the creation of Sparta as a political entity and how people came to think of themselves as belonging to it. How Sparta was understood from other places in both Greece and beyond is explored, as are ideas of women in Sparta and the decline of this highly important military power, particularly in the middle of the 1st millennium BC. Greco-Roman Slavery core module There were different types of slaves in the Greek and Roman worlds, and different ways for people to become and obtain slaves. In turn, this meant that there were different experiences of being a slave, and exploring historical accounts and materials can help us learn more about these. In some circumstances slaves could become free or be freed, and examples from inscriptions in the Roman world present freed slaves who have gone on to achieve business success but find attaining social acceptance much harder. This module looks at slavery as a bigger institution, and also at particular examples from antiquity. Choose ONE of the Mediterranean in the Medieval World OR Rise of States in the Old World OR Fieldschool

13 DISTANCE LEARNING COURSES IN ARCHAEOLOGY AND ANCIENT HISTORY 13 The Mediterranean in the Medieval World The expansion of the Christian church, the rise and spread of Islam, and the powerful Byzantine Empire all make the study of the medieval period around the Mediterranean from an archaeological perspective fascinating and unusual. Such things as the role of castles, warfare and weapons in contests for power and domination are explored, with a section on the archaeology of the Crusades. Trade around (and beyond) the Mediterranean world is traced through archaeological studies, along with changes to settlement patterns and changing urban forms. Rise of States in the Old World How do we define and understand the incredibly complex social structures that are states in archaeology? Drawing on ideas from anthropology, history and sociology as well as archaeology, this module explores the origins of four old world states (Egypt, Mesopotamia, the Indus, Shang China) and what might have led to their development at certain times and places. The archaeological evidence for such things as settlement, craft production, trade, warfare and burials are all explored in some depth for each state. Fieldschool This module consists of at least one week s practical work on a current research project, plus linked readings and assessment. The School currently runs two research fieldprojects (one local to Leicestershire, see our website for current details, and Mohegan Fieldschool, Connecticut, USA), but we are also happy to accept fieldwork experience from elsewhere for credits, as long as we have given prior approval. The fieldwork week usually includes not only supervised experience in a number of aspects of survey and/or excavations, but also seminars and introductions to the particular project s research aims. We also set formal assessment for this module, whether students attend our fieldschools or approved fieldschools elsewhere. Level Three Archaeology of Urbanism core module Archaeology is well placed to provide a lot of information about towns and cities. The study of buildings and material culture can address not only the urban physical form in the past, and the ways in which this changed and developed, but also evidence for elites and the poor in towns and cities, trade and traders, religion in urban areas, and in particular dedicated sacred cities. The archaeology of urban areas is explored not only to understand the physical evidence for towns and cities themselves, but also to learn about how people would have lived and interacted within them. Archaeology, Religion and Belief core module Religion, belief and ritual have been important to humans for many millennia, yet such things are very difficult to understand from the archaeological record. What we mean by religion and ideology is discussed, and this is followed by a consideration of the different ways in which they have been identified and studied in archaeology. Examples of interpretations of rock art as a religious expression are analysed, along with a whole range of other case studies, such as the importance of places and spaces in religious practice.

14 14 UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTER SCHOOL OF ARCHAEOLOGY AND ANCIENT HISTORY Households and Families in the Past core module For a lot of prehistory and history people have lived within something that could be described as a family group or a household, and the purpose of this module is to look at the archaeological and historical evidence which relates directly to understanding more about these social structures in the past. Case studies include Roman Pompeii, Pharaonic Egypt, Medieval Europe, and the different sorts of households in each are analysed and compared. The Later Roman Empire core module This module covers the period from the late third century to the early fifth century AD. It examines the Roman Empire in a period of transformation, and a time when Christianity became the religion of the state. It looks at the ways Emperors tried to manage the administration of a vast empire; at their responses to the new threats from borders east, west, north and south; the power of the military and the influences of court politics. The triumph of Christianity is examined in the light of internal divisions within the Christian communities and the reactions of different Emperors to their perceived position in the Church hierarchy. The rise of Christianity did not prevent a flowering of paganism in the period, seen particularly in the reign (and writings) of the enigmatic emperor Julian in the mid-fourth century. The primary evidence for the period is rich in both content and variety. There is a huge corpus of literary and documentary evidence and surviving archaeology and material culture point to vibrant and creative societies across the empire. The period is often defined as one of decline but this module will present a very different picture of the later Roman world. Individual Dissertation in Ancient History or Classical Archaeology core module The dissertation is your opportunity to carry out original research into an archaeological or ancient history topic which interests you. You will be sent a dissertation preparation guide at the start of level 3, although the dissertation itself will be the last (double) module of your degree programme. The dissertation preparation comprises a series of exercises to help you think about what might make a good dissertation topic, along with guidance on how to approach all aspects of your dissertation. In addition to an individual supervisor who will be assigned according to topic, there is a dissertation module tutor who will also be available to answer questions and discuss possible topics.

15 DISTANCE LEARNING COURSES IN ARCHAEOLOGY AND ANCIENT HISTORY 15 BA (Hons) Archaeology Duration: 6 years part-time Start dates: February, June, October Course aims and objectives The aims of this course are to: enable you to pursue your personal or professional interest in archaeology introduce you to key themes in the study of archaeology and enable you to develop your knowledge and understanding of the wide chronological and geographical range of the discipline of archaeology provide you with practical, hands-on experience of fieldwork and laboratory work develop your ability to draw upon appropriate archaeological theories, methods, techniques and concepts towards understanding the past through material culture and other residues We will provide you with an intellectually challenging and stimulating curriculum which draws on the full expertise of members of the School of Archaeology and Ancient History and our proven track record of delivering archaeology by distance learning and which will enable you to develop transferable skills necessary for successful career development or further academic study. Course Structure Level 1 (part-time years 1 and 2) * Aims and Methods in Archaeology CORE MODULE AND five modules from the following: Early Prehistory Later Prehistory Introduction to Classical Archaeology Medieval Archaeology Historical (Post-medieval and Industrial) Archaeology The Archaeology of Egypt, Nubia and the Middle Nile Level 2 (part-time years 3 and 4) * Archaeological Theory CORE MODULE * Fieldschool CORE MODULE * Interpreting Archaeological Evidence CORE MODULE AND three modules from the following: Being Human: Evolution and Prehistory The Rise of States in the Old World The Archaeology of the Roman World The Mediterranean in the Medieval World Level 3 (part-time years 5 and 6) The Archaeology of Urbanism CORE MODULE Archaeology, Religion and Belief CORE MODULE Archaeological Practice CORE MODULE Households and Families in the Past CORE MODULE Individual Dissertation in Archaeology CORE MODULE * Modules are taken in the above order with the exception of the Fieldwork module which can be taken at any point of your level 2 studies upon agreement. Special features The compulsory level 2 Fieldschool module gives you the opportunity to get practical, hands-on experience in a number of aspects of survey and excavation. You can participate in the fieldschool that we organise each year at Bradgate Park in Leicestershire, or opt to make your own fieldwork arrangements (as long as we have given prior approval). The compulsory level 3 Archaeological Practice module requires attendance at a week-long practical laboratorybased session in the School of Archaeology and Ancient History at the University of Leicester. This session is held in May or September of year 5 or 6. In addition to the compulsory Fieldschool module, all BA Archaeology students are required to have carried out another four weeks of non-assessed fieldwork before they can graduate. This field experience can be gained at any approved field project, anywhere in the world.

16 16 UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTER SCHOOL OF ARCHAEOLOGY AND ANCIENT HISTORY BA (Hons) Archaeology Level One Aims and Methods in Archaeology core module This module provides an introduction to key ideas and issues, including a discussion of what archaeology actually is, and what archaeologists actually do. How do archaeologists find sites, and how do they get information from sites? How do archaeologists work out the date of a site? What are the common artefacts found on archaeological sites, and how are they analysed? These are the sorts of things we cover in this module, which provides a good foundation for moving on to the other modules at level 1 and beyond. Then choose FIVE out of the following SIX modules. Early Prehistory Prehistory the study of humans before the widespread use of the written word is generally broken down into early prehistory and later prehistory. Early prehistory covers the development of modern humans by looking at the latest finds and methods in human evolution. This includes the application of DNA analysis and the study of the bones of human ancestors. The ways in which hunter-gatherer groups lived are explored, bearing in mind that hunting and gathering were the ways in which people obtained food for many thousands of years far longer than being settled farmers. This then leads on to the emergence and spread of farming, which is possibly one of the most important developments in prehistory. Later Prehistory This second module dealing with the prehistoric world explores the rise of metallurgy the production of copper, bronze and iron objects and how this changed the way people carried out trade and their connections across wide areas. This is the time when the first complex state societies emerged, and the first urbanised societies are evident in the archaeological record. Early states in Mesopotamia (now Iraq), the Indus (modern Pakistan and north-western India), China, and Egypt are reviewed, along with later prehistory in the Americas and south-east Asia. Introduction to Classical Archaeology The archaeology of Ancient Greece begins by looking at what is often called the Dark Age or Archaic period, from BC, and continues into Classical Greece (the fifth and fourth centuries BC or approximately BC) up to Alexander the Great. This allows us to understand how such things as democracy, classical Greek Architecture and sculpture developed things that have had a huge impact on the western world as a whole. This module then looks at the rise of the Roman world, from its beginnings as a Republic, right through to the end of the Empire in the 4th century AD. Economy, trade, buildings, settlement, architecture and towns are all explored in order to understand what made the Roman world so successful. Medieval Archaeology Following the end of the Roman Empire, Europe was subject to many significant changes in terms of the ways in which society was organised. The rise and spread of Christianity had a major impact, and the archaeology of this period explores the ways in which these changes can be seen in buildings, towns, artefacts and so forth. This module also considers the rise of the other recent major world religion Islam and the ways in which archaeologists have studied the Arab world and the spread of Islam, as well as medieval kingdoms in Africa, and developments at the same time in South America and Mesoamerica, and pre- Columbian North America. Historical (Post- Medieval and Industrial) Archaeology The archaeology of the modern world is an exciting and (relatively) new subject to study. Exploring the ways in which the world has changed in the last 500 years, this module looks at the ways in which European countryside and towns changed after the medieval period, and the major impact of the industrial revolution. Conquest and colonialism are also important themes in historical archaeology, and examples from South America, the Caribbean, North America and Africa are all presented and discussed. The Archaeology of Egypt, Nubia and the Middle Nile Egypt has always had very strong connections to areas to the south, such as Nubia (modern Sudan) and beyond, with the river Nile playing a key role in the movement of people, goods and ideas. In this module the main cultural and political developments in both Egypt and Nubia are explored, and the ways in which archaeology reflects the relationships between the two states is considered. As well as looking at the growth of the pyramids in Egypt and other evidence for complex social relations, the powerful Kingdom of Kush in southern Egypt and Sudan is much less well known, but equally fascinating, and is introduced in this module.

17 DISTANCE LEARNING COURSES IN ARCHAEOLOGY AND ANCIENT HISTORY 17 Level 2 Archaeological Theory core module How we think about people, societies, material culture and of course archaeology itself is all shaped by our theoretical approach, whether we think we have one or not. In this module we work through a whole range of different theories such as postmodernism, dualisms, and postprocessualism, as well as looking at the ways in which archaeology draws on different issues such as identity, globalisation, and representation in order to analyse and understand more about people in the past. Fieldschool core module This module consists of at least one week s practical work on a current research project, plus linked readings and assessment. The School currently runs two research fieldprojects (one local to Leicestershire, see our website for current details, and Mohegan Fieldschool, Connecticut, USA), but we are also happy to accept fieldwork experience from elsewhere for credits, as long as we have given prior approval. The fieldwork week usually includes not only supervised experience in a number of aspects of survey and/or excavations, but also seminars and introductions to the particular project s research aims. We also set formal assessment for this module, whether students attend our fieldschools or approved fieldschools elsewhere. * While Fieldschool is a core module for the BA in Archaeology, we recognise that timing needs to be flexible so you can decide which year to do it in (if part-time) and at which point in the year if you are attending a non-leicester Fieldschool. Interpreting Archaeological Evidence core module Archaeological fieldwork generally gives archaeologists a lot of things that are the result of past human activity. These things might include pottery, stone tools, human bones, animal bones, and metals, and it is important to remember that things alone do not tell us anything it is how we analyse and interpret them once discovered that is important. This module looks at the most commonly recovered archaeological materials, and ways in which we can understand more about the people who produced and used these things. Then choose THREE out of the following FOUR modules. Being Human: Evolution and Prehistory What is the evolutionary journey to being human over the last 50,000 years or so? This module introduces the key lithic (stone tool) phases that archaeologists have identified for early humans and then goes on to evaluate our archaeological knowledge of Neanderthals. This is followed by settlement and subsistence right through the last Ice Age up to the beginnings of agriculture. It builds on some of the themes from Early Prehistory (level 1) and expands them. Rise of States in the Old World How do we define and understand the incredibly complex social structures that are states in archaeology? Drawing on ideas from anthropology, history and sociology as well as archaeology, this module explores the origins of four old world states (Egypt, Mesopotamia, the Indus, Shang China) and what might have led to their development at certain times and places. The archaeological evidence for such things as settlement, craft production, trade, warfare and burials are all explored in some depth for each state. The Archaeology of the Roman World Beginning with a discussion about why the archaeological study of the Roman world is important, and worth carrying out, this module explores the city of Rome in some detail. This is followed by explorations of the archaeological evidence for a number of issues such as Roman religion, the expansion of the Roman Empire, and what Roman death and burial can tell us about life as a Roman. The concept of Romanisation is debated in some depth, along with other recent ways of understanding the power and domination that came with the Roman Empire in many parts of the known world. The Mediterranean in the Medieval World The expansion of the Christian church, the rise and spread of Islam, and the powerful Byzantine Empire all make the study of the medieval period around the Mediterranean from an archaeological perspective fascinating and unusual. Such things as the role of castles, warfare and weapons in contests for power and domination are explored, with a section on the archaeology of the Crusades. Trade around (and beyond) the Mediterranean world is traced through archaeological studies, along with changes to settlement patterns and changing urban forms.

18 18 UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTER SCHOOL OF ARCHAEOLOGY AND ANCIENT HISTORY Level 3 Archaeology of Urbanism core module Archaeology is well placed to provide a lot of information about towns and cities. The study of buildings and material culture can address not only the urban physical form in the past, and the ways in which this changed and developed, but also evidence for elites and the poor in towns and cities, trade and traders, religion in urban areas, and in particular dedicated sacred cities. The archaeology of urban areas is explored not only to understand the physical evidence for towns and cities themselves, but also to learn about how people would have lived and interacted within them. Archaeology, Religion and Belief core module Religion, belief and ritual have been important to humans for many millennia, yet such things are very difficult to understand from the archaeological record. What we mean by religion and ideology is discussed, and this is followed by a consideration of the different ways in which they have been identified and studied in archaeology. Examples of interpretations of rock art as a religious expression are analysed, along with a whole range of other case studies, such as the importance of places and spaces in religious practice. Archaeological Practice core module This module requires compulsory attendance at a week long practical laboratory based session in the School of Archaeology and Ancient History at the University of Leicester. This module is run only twice a year: firstly, with the laboratory session held in May, which means that there is no gap between completing the previous module (which should have started in February) and starting this one; and secondly with the laboratory session held in September, which means there is no gap between completing the previous module (which should have started in June) and starting this one. However, you will have a longer period than usual in your module timetable after the laboratory based week before starting your next module. The module usually covers four different archaeological materials or data gathering methods, and these may include: animal bones, human bones, geophysical survey, adna, lithics, and pottery not all of these will be offered in each week in every year, and you will need to talk to us to find out which materials and approaches will be running. It is not possible to substitute this module with work at another institution. Households and Families in the Past core module For a lot of prehistory and history people have lived within something that could be described as a family group or a household, and the purpose of this module is to look at the archaeological and historical evidence which relates directly to understanding more about these social structures in the past. Case studies include Roman Pompeii, Pharaonic Egypt, Medieval Europe, and the different sorts of households in each are analysed and compared. Individual Dissertation in Archaeology core module The dissertation is your opportunity to carry out original research into an archaeological or ancient history topic which interests you. You will be sent a dissertation preparation guide at the start of level 3, although the dissertation itself will be the last (double) module of your degree programme. The dissertation preparation comprises a series of exercises to help you think about what might make a good dissertation topic, along with guidance on how to approach all aspects of your dissertation. In addition to an individual supervisor who will be assigned according to topic, there is a dissertation module tutor who will also be available to answer questions and discuss possible topics.

19 DISTANCE LEARNING COURSES IN ARCHAEOLOGY AND ANCIENT HISTORY 19 Postgraduate Courses MA Our MA (Master of Arts) courses are postgraduate level courses. They will be suitable for you if you already have an undergraduate degree or are already an archaeology professional with relevant skills and experience. You should consider taking one of our MA courses if you want to enhance your existing knowledge of archaeology or study for an advanced qualification. MA in Archaeology and Heritage Duration: 2 years part-time, 1 year full-time Start dates: February, June, October Course aims and objectives The aims of this course are to: train you for work within professional archaeology and related fields or contribute to your professional development and skills enhancement introduce you to the range of techniques used to study archaeological landscapes and buildings equip you with skills of site evaluation and project management instruct you in a range of skills needed in the analysis and presentation of archaeological data offer the opportunity of interpreting and presenting the archaeological heritage Successful graduates include those working for English Heritage and other government agencies in the UK; the National Park Service, Parks Canada, the US military and State offices in north America; and numerous private CRM firms in many parts of the world. Some students have gone on to doctoral research. Course Structure Critical Approaches to the Archaeological Heritage Archaeology of Standing Buildings Landscape Archaeology Managing Archaeological Practices Dissertation Special features The MA is the equivalent of a regionally-accredited US Master s degree, and is accepted by the Register of Professional Archaeologists as a qualifying degree for those wishing to become Licensed Practitioners. Modules Critical Approaches to the Archaeological Heritage This module examines the ways in which archaeological sites and landscapes are presented to the public and the ethical and political issues surrounding preservation, conservation or restoration. Case studies are taken from around the world and you will be asked to take a critical look at archaeological, museum or heritage sites of your choice. Archaeology of Standing Buildings This module provides you with an archaeological understanding of building construction and evolution and the ability to recognise different building materials and to determine the different functions of buildings. Students are introduced to analytical and survey skills and to more sophisticated methods of investigation. You will be encouraged to investigate buildings in your own locality and to produce a detailed survey and report on one such building as part of your coursework.

20 20 UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTER SCHOOL OF ARCHAEOLOGY AND ANCIENT HISTORY Landscape Archaeology This module introduces the theoretical issues underpinning landscape archaeology, and the range of techniques in the human and natural sciences that can be combined in the broad field of landscape studies. Students learn to assess the different strengths and weaknesses of these techniques and their appropriate application within problem solving research and professional practice. Managing Archaeological Practices This module aims to familiarise you with the principles of site evaluation and archaeological assessment within the constraints of statutory legislation and local planning constraints, using case studies drawn from across the world. Attention is also paid to the financial issues of project management, including the impact of developer funding and competitive tendering for archaeological assessments. Dissertation You will be required to submit a dissertation of 15,000 words on an approved topic relating to some aspect of one or more of the modules. The title and content of the dissertation will be discussed and agreed with a supervisor and you will receive direct and one-to-one supervision throughout the period of your research. MA in Historical Archaeology Duration: 2 years part-time, 1 year full-time Start dates: February, June, October Course aims and objectives The aims of this course are to: introduce you to the variety of approaches within different archaeological traditions and periods equip you with knowledge of the potential and limitations of different forms of archaeological, historical and other types of evidence help you to develop a critical understanding of the meaning and nature of capitalism and colonialism in the early modern and modern world enable you to develop an awareness of processes of social and cultural change in the early modern and modern worlds from a global perspective explore the history and potential of later historical archaeology in Britain and elsewhere provide you with practical skills in the analysis and interpretation of appropriate landscapes, buildings and material culture The course is designed to appeal to archaeology graduates; professionals interested in career development; and those interested in learning about and developing innovative approaches to later historical archaeology, already an important sub-discipline in north America, and a growing field in Europe and elsewhere. Some students have gone on to doctoral research. Course Structure The Archaeology of the Modern World Doing Historical Archaeology AND two modules from the following: Archaeology of Standing Buildings Critical Approaches to the Archaeological Heritage The Historical Archaeology of England (study tour) PLUS Dissertation (15,000 words) Alternatively, the following course structure may be followed: Both compulsory core modules One option module Dissertation (20,000 words) Special features This course draws on the strength of our staff working in later historical periods within both Europe and North America the largest concentration of later historical archaeologists in any UK university The optional Historical Archaeology of England module comprises a study tour in and around Leicestershire and the Midlands region of England during the spring Students may opt to do an extended dissertation of 20,000 words (90 credits) and three taught modules, instead of four taught modules and a standard dissertation. Progress to all dissertations is subject to successful completion of taught modules. Students interested in taking a 90 credit dissertation are encouraged to discuss this with the MA Directors.