Rediscovering a lifelong passion for Archaeology: UCC Postgraduate Spotlight Sue Viney

28 Apr 2025

• Sue Viney, UCC Archaeology graduate, shares how she started a new professional chapter through postgraduate study.
• Aimed at graduates from diverse backgrounds, UCC's Archaeology HDip offers a pathway into the field of archaeology.

Postgraduate journeys at UCC are as varied as the students themselves, each shaped by unique backgrounds and aspirations. Sue Viney, a recent graduate of the Higher Diploma in Archaeology, chose UCC as part of a significant new chapter in her professional life.

After early retirement, Sue decided to pursue a long-standing interest in archaeology, a subject she had enjoyed during her undergraduate studies but had not previously explored further.

Sue explains: "I decided to retire early and wanted to do something really different with my life. I've always loved spending time in Ireland and have wanted to go back to school and squeeze in just one more career. Archaeology was an early love of mine in my undergrad but I hadn't pursued it. I was delighted to find the Higher Diploma program at UCC."

"Getting acceptance validated my previous B.S. and M.A. degrees, as well as my life experiences. The program itself is a complete immersion in all things Irish with regards to archaeology and history in a very intimate learning environment."

Sue points to the strength of the academic staff, noting their research impact and connection to Ireland's broader archaeological community:

"Many of the lecturers are connected to the legendary early archaeologists through UCC, other academic environments and their experiences. Ireland has a unique archaeological history worthy of its own program like this. The lecturers are talented researchers, and I frequently come across their work when doing research for assignments and projects."

She also highlights the programme's approach to teaching, with a strong focus on research, field experience, and practical engagement:

"Most of the learning leverages research, the courses are not as reliant on textbooks as many programs are. The lecturers are humble, approachable, and truly are the best of the best. Nearly every course provides some level of hands-on, whether it's examining artefacts in the classroom or being out off-campus for field trips to locations matching what's studied in class."

While Sue found the coursework challenging at times, she considers the experience worthwhile:

"While I have loved every minute of this experience, it has also been incredibly challenging. The course tests, research papers and projects along with the final exam requirements are hard, the bar is set high! Even so, I simply can't recommend this program enough if you love archaeology. If you don't know if you will love Ireland, I can pretty much guarantee it."

Sue’s story shows how postgraduate study at UCC can open up new paths for learning, career change, and personal growth.

Exploring new opportunities in Archaeology

If you are interested in exploring archaeology further, the Higher Diploma in Archaeology at UCC offers a structured pathway into the discipline for graduates from other fields. Whether you are considering a career change, looking to build on practical experience, or preparing for further postgraduate study, this course is designed for those who have an active interest in archaeology and want to undertake a full-time course of study, out of interest, or to change careers. It is also well-suited to international students who want to study archaeology in Ireland.

Learn more about the Higher Diploma in Archaeology at UCC on the programme page.