Archaeology and Conservation

Dedicated to training the next generation of archaeologists and conservators, our century-strong connections open doors to museums, trusts, private collections and archaeological units.

We teach from prehistory to the medieval and beyond, covering Britain, Europe and Egypt.

Hands-on experience

Immerse yourself in practical learning experiences, from exciting fieldwork opportunities to cutting-edge laboratory research.

Bespoke facilities

Our laboratories, photography and illustration studios, library and IT resources, analytical equipment, and reference collections offer what you need to excel in your studies. Our specialist facilities have benefitted from £3M+ of collaborative funding in recent years, supporting award-winning research, teaching and engagement.

Sharing expertise with real passion

Our respected specialists share their expertise with enthusiasm. You’ll benefit too from our collective links with museums, archaeological units, trusts, private collections, and the wider heritage sector.

Archaeology

We have been at the forefront of transforming knowledge and understanding of human history for over a century.

Our CiFA accredited archaeology degrees provide comprehensive training in archaeological theory, methods, and practice, covering prehistory to later medieval periods in the UK, Europe and Mediterranean.

Real-world placements

Gain a competitive edge with funded summer professional placements in the UK and Europe, providing more practical experience than most UK archaeology degrees.

You’ll gain skills sought after in graduate level roles, from communicating complex ideas to interpreting data, as well as the skills of an archaeologist in the field.

Honouring our trail-blazing history, our exclusive Cyril Fox Memorial Fund is open to student applications for travel and research grants.

We’re a welcoming and friendly community with thriving student societies, offering personalised attention and a truly supportive learning environment.

Full-time courses

Exploring the Past

This is one of a series of flexible, affordable progression pathways onto degrees in History, Archaeology and Religion for those returning to education. See more about Pathways to a degree at Cardiff University.

Conservation

We’re a super-friendly international community, with your progress at heart.

Taught by internationally respected practitioners and academics, you’ll learn to co-ordinate the scientific investigation of artefacts.

Our teaching labs are your classroom. You’ll study the structure, decay and conservation of cultural materials, progressing into practical work on a wide variety of archaeological and historical objects.

By treating pieces from museums, excavations and historic houses across the UK in our purpose-built laboratories, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of their composition, technology and the methods used to conserve them.

With up to 8 weeks of real-world placement experience open to you, you can notch up valuable experience in museums and cultural heritage projects too. Destinations vary by opportunity, enhanced by our international standing and global links.

Full-time courses