Historical archaeology focusses on the periods with written history. You will learn the disciplines of archaeology to look at the evidence. Will your interpretation complement or challenge the written records?We will focus on material culture (artefacts), buildings and historic landscapes. These might range from ancient sites like Pompeii or Hadrian’s Wall to medieval castles and churches, to Victorian industrial buildings. You can also choose modules to develop your practical and scientific skills to further your understanding.You will complete 20 days of archaeological fieldwork. This includes taking part in an approved excavation project, or a related placement, in the UK or overseas.In the core module, 'Communicating the Past', you will consider how best to present heritage to the public, working in groups to create an interactive activity based on your studies. Recent project titles have included:Europe’s Ice Age Hunter-Gatherers – museum exhibition designHadrian’s Wall – an Archaeology Escape Room experienceHMS Royal George – a digital shipwreck tourSeeking out Nottingham’s Past – an Archaeology puzzle gameTravel the Apennine Way – Roman Board GameWe work closely with the British Geological Survey and the University Nanoscale and Microscale Research Centre, and offer artefact-handling sessions and educational projects at the on-campus University Museum.You are encouraged to follow your interests and can choose from our full range of modules in classics and archaeology, studying the language, history, art and culture of the ancient world. You can also take subsidiary modules from other departments – such as history, philosophy, or history of art – or study a language.

Department of Classics and Archaeology