BA Ancient History and Archaeology with Professional Placement

Discover the ancient Greco-Roman world, spend a year in another country, and take the opportunity to join an archaeological dig and study abroad, with our BA Ancient History and Archaeology with Professional Placement degree.

At the University of Reading, our BA Ancient History and Archaeology with Professional Placement joint degree combines the study of ancient history – and its political, military, social and cultural contexts – with invaluable archaeological training.

Through your study of ancient history, you’ll immerse yourself in the rich culture of Greece and Rome from around 2000BC to 600AD and discover how these ancient civilisations have influenced the modern world. Your archaeological studies will take you further back in time, broaden the geographical focus, and enable you to experience the excitement of genuine discovery.

A key feature of this four-year programme is the opportunity to undertake a professional placement between your second and third year of study and gain valuable experience and insight into the workplace.Placements are an excellent way to enhance your work-related skills and develop a network of contacts, as well as strengthen your employability prospects.

We provide opportunities for you to undertake placements in a variety of contexts across the archaeological, heritage, planning and museum sectors, including:

The University's museums, including the Department's own Ure Museum of Greek Archaeology, also provide a number of voluntary work placements, ranging from helping with school visits to preparing displays and exhibitions. Alternatively you can choose a placement in a non-related business or industry, exploring different career options and enhancing your employability by drawing on the many non-vocational, transferable skills you obtain from an Ancient History and Archaeology degree.

As a placement year student, you are responsible for finding your placement. We have a dedicated member of staff who will provide you with advice and support throughout the process.

For more information about securing and completing a placement for your placement year, please visit our Important Information page.