The Archaeology Coursebook

Home About the Book Electronic Companion Studying Archaeology Forum Ordering Information Buy this book

Studying Archaeology

AS and A Level

Archaeology AS and A Level are offered by AQA from their Manchester Office. The specifications can be seen at http://www.aqa.org.uk/qual/gceasa/arc.html

As with other similar qualifications, the AS is made up of 3 modules and the A Level of 6 (The 3 AS modules and 3 A2 modules). The 3 AS modules are all assessed by examination in January or June each year and the A2 is made up of 2 examination modules and a personal study.

AS level provides an introduction to archaeological methods and the study of one archaeological theme: The Archaeology of Religion and Ritual. This is studied in relation to one period from a choice of four: Later British Prehistory, Romans, Egyptians, Maya. The A2 develops the study of archaeological themes and provides the opportunity for any period(s) or place(s) to be studied. The personal study offers the chance to undertake practical research and to apply the understanding of methods gained on the A2. The AS/A is a good preparation for studying archaeology at University and covers many elements of 1st year undergraduate programmes. However, as a rigorous A Level on a par with History it provides an opportunity to study a subject which combines elements of science and the humanities. Relatively few schools currently offer archaeology although numbers are growing. It is an increasingly popular subject in Sixth Form and FE Colleges. Unlike most AS/A Levels it is popular with adult students, many of whom study part time. Centres offering this course can be found by contacting the CBA or AQA. A distance learning course is offered at

The structure of The Archaeology Coursebook follows that of Archaeology A Level and it provides support for all elements of the course.

Unit details	Content etc	Relevant sections of The Archaeology Coursebook
Unit 1	Finding and excavating archaeological sites	Chapters 1 and 2 cover this
Unit 2	Analysis, dating and interpretation of archaeological remains	Chapters 3 to 7 cover this
Unit 3	Religion and ritual: The Maya, Ancient Egypt, Rome, Later British Prehistory.	Concepts explained and explored in chapter 8. Many useful case studies plus advice on skills.
A2 (2nd half of A Level)
Unit 4	Material culture and economics	Concepts covered in chapter 10. Advice on skills and exams in chapter 13 important
Unit 5	Settlement and social archaeology	Concepts covered in chapters 9 and 11. Advice on skills and exams in chapter 13 important
Unit 6	Personal study	Chapter 12 provides a guide to this.

Other A Levels

There are some elements of Archaeology in A Levels in Classical Civilisation and Ancient History, both offered by OCR.