Archaeology and conservation
Gain the training, skills and knowledge with us to make your mark in the heritage sector.
Why study with us
Join us on our ever-curious quest about the human experience across millennia. Dive into all kinds of cultures, from prehistoric times to contemporary society and be taught by the very best in archaeological expertise.
Your employability matters most
86% of graduates were in employment and/or further study, due to start a new job or course, or doing other activities such as travelling, 15 months after the end of their course. (Graduate Outcomes survey 2022/23).
Internationally-recognised research
We placed 9th in the UK for research in Archaeology and 5th for in the UK for research impact (REF 2021).
Standing the test of time
Over 100 years of pioneering archaeology and conservation expertise means our team continues to make trail-blazing discoveries with the latest techniques and thinking.
Courses
Entry year
All about archaeology
Introducing Archaeology (BA)
Professor Vicki Cummings introduces our undergraduate degree in archaeology. Find out what it's all about, the kinds of experiences you can have with us, and the careers it can lead to.
What's it like to work on an archaeological dig site?
Some of our students chatted with us about their time working on an archaeological dig site in Ely's Trelai Park.
Introducing Archaeology and Heritage Science (BSc)
Dive into the world of archaeology and heritage science. Come and explore periods, places and science with us. Dr Julia Best gives you an overview of what to expect at Cardiff University.
The placements are invaluable - I was lucky to go into the field and a major commercial unit, giving me lots of skills for future employment, numerous industry connections, and lasting friendships.
Dig in
Facilities and location
Osteology laboratory
Located in John Percival BuildingProfessor Jacqui Mulville shows us around the Osteology Laboratory in the School of History, Archaeology and Religion at Cardiff University.
Biomolecular laboratory
Located in John Percival BuildingDr Richard Madgwick shows us around the Biomolecular Archaeology Laboratory in the School of History, Archaeology and Religion at Cardiff University.
Conservation laboratories
Located in John Percival BuildingPhil Parkes and Dr Ashley Lingle show us around the Conservation Laboratories in the School of History, Archaeology and Religion at Cardiff University.
Microscopy and climate simulation
Located in John Percival BuildingDr Jerrod Seifert and Johanna Thunberg show us around the Microscopy and Climate Simulation Laboratories in the School of History, Archaeology and Religion at Cardiff University.
Scanning Electron Microscope
Located in John Percival BuildingPhil Parkes tells us more about the Scanning Electron Microscope at the School of History, Archaeology and Religion at Cardiff University.
Photographic suite
Located in John Percival BuildingMark Lodwick shows us around the Photographic Studio in the School of History, Archaeology and Religion at Cardiff University.
Illustration studio
Located in John Percival BuildingIan Dennis and Kirsty Harding tell us more about illustration in the School of History, Archaeology and Religion at Cardiff University.
Join our internationally recognised centre of excellence
Most lectures, tutorials and practicals take place in our home, the John Percival Building. It includes purpose-designed conservation and archaeological laboratories.
Just next door is the Arts and Social Sciences Library, home to our prestigious Special Collections and archives in archaeology and history.
Explore Cardiff University
Next steps
View our archaeology and conservation undergraduate courses
Explore our courses.
Contact us
Ask a question via our enquiry form, and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.
How to apply
Everything you need to know about our application process.
*Based on UK-domiciled, full-time graduates who were studying for their first degree. Source: Graduate Outcomes 2022/23 survey results published by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA). Copyright Jisc 2025. Jisc cannot accept responsibility for any inferences or conclusions derived by third parties from its data.
Undergraduate
Join a community of open-minded thinkers and doers, where everyone is empowered to reach their full potential. Together, we’ll work hard to build a better future—for you and the wider world.
Undergraduate prospectus 2027
Order or download a copy of our prospectus, subject brochures and other guides.
Contact us
Get in touch if you have a question about studying with us.