Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions on the topic:
• Why study Archaeology?
• Archaeology and History, what's the difference?
• What is involved in the study of Archaeology at U.C.C?
• Is Archaeology a subject within the Arts Degree?
• What other subjects can be taken with Archaeology at U.C.C?
• Is Archaeology an interesting subject to study?
• What are the job opportunities for me with an Archaeology Degree?
Why study Archaeology?
Archaeology is the study of past human societies through the material remains they have left behind. It is an exciting subject that investigates important developments in the human story over a long period of time. The greater part of the human story is beyond the range of traditional historical methods and can only be studied through the archaeological record. Today, archaeologists regularly collaborate with scientists working in such disciplines as botany and physics in, for example, the analysis of environmental remains and the dating of ancient objects. The excitement of discovery in archaeological excavation is well known through the media, however this is only one aspect of a discipline that combines humanistic interest with scientific method.
Archaeology and History, what's the difference?
Archaeologists study materials from all periods whereas Historians study only those times and places where written record survive. Archaeologists used material evidence and documentary sources, while Historians focus entirely on written records. Archaeologists are able to study prehistory, which is the period of time before the appearance of writing representing the greater part of the human story.
What is involved in the study of Archaeology in U.C.C?
In the First Year of the BA programme students are introduced to the discipline of Archaeology and to selected topics of World Archaeology. Much of the First Year course is concerned with a general introduction to the archaeology of Ireland from earliest times to the early modern era. Students who progress to Second and Third Year have an opportunity to select from a broad range of archaeology courses, covering archaeological theory, culture history, material culture, fieldwork and scientific areas. The single/major/joint honours options in the UCC BA degree allow students to determine how much archaeology they wish to take to their final degree in respect to another suibject.
Is Archaeology a subject within an Arts Degree?
Yes, it may be taken as one of your four chosen subject choices in First Year. In Second and Third Years you chose two subjects. You may study these in equal proportions (‘Joint Honours’) or as major and minor subjects. Archaeology is available as a major subject in U.C.C. (‘Single Honours’).
What other subjects can be taken with Archaeology at U.C.C ?
In general, it is possible to take the following: Computer Science, History, Applied Mathematics, Gaeilge/Irish, History of Art, Greek and Roman Civilisation, Studies in Psychology, French, Sociology, Studies in Music, Economics, English, Greek, An Leann Dúchais, Geography, Italian, Celtic Civilisation, Philosophy and Spanish.
Is Archaeology an interesting subject to study?
Yes! In the Archaeology Department in U.C.C. when you get to Second and Third Years you have the option to pick the modules which are of most interest to you, making the subject as interesting as you want it to be, particularly if you are doing Single Honours Archaeology. There are no subject prerequisites required in order to study Archaeology. You are not required to have subjects like history or science in your leaving certificate though you must meet the normal subject requirements for entry to the Arts degree. Ideally, students considering Archaeology should have a broad interest in subjects like history and geography.
What are the job opportunities for me with an Archaeology Degree?
One of the attractions of Archaeology as an Arts subject is the possibility of combining an intellectually stimulating subject with a professional career qualification. There will always be employment opportunities in this area in Ireland. Archaeologists work in the State heritage sector, for central government bodies such as the National Monuments Service and the National Museum of Ireland, as well as for local authorities in county museums and planning offices. There is a commercial archaeology sector in Ireland that services the requirements of various development agencies. Archaeologists work in survey and excavation, in environmental impact assessment, in heritage conservation projects and tourism initiatives. A degree in Archaeology is very flexible in regard to employment, whether in the archaeological profession or some applied area such as heritage tourism.
To get a further insight into the range of work areas in Archaeology you might look at the following web-site:
