Archaeology
HDip Archaeology
Graduate Taught (level 8 nfq, credits 60)
The Higher Diploma (HDip) in Archaeology is a one year (full time) or two year (part time) 60-ECTS credit degree programme. It is designed for people who do not have a previous qualification in archaeology but who wish to consider a postgraduate degree in the subject.
The programme comprises the final two years of our undergraduate programme compressed into a single academic year. This includes:
• Core modules on archaeological theory, methods, approaches to landscape and material culture as well as key issues in heritage management and Irish archaeology
• Optional modules in areas including prehistoric and medieval archaeology, scientific archaeology and other thematic areas.
• Production of a 10-credit independent research project.
Who should apply?
Full Time option suitable for:
Domestic(EEA) applicants: Yes
International (Non EEA) applicants currently residing outside of the EEA Region. Yes
Part Time option suitable for:
Domestic(EEA) applicants: Yes
International (Non EEA) applicants currently residing outside of the EEA Region. No
The HDip is designed for students with little or no prior archaeological training, and will fast track you through the advanced stages (Levels 2 and 3) of our undergraduate programme.
Vision & Values Statement
The HDip Archaeology is an intensive programme aimed at students who have little previous archaeological experience but who wish to obtain a postgraduate qualification in archaeology. It serves as apoint of entry into the GDip and MA programmes in archaeology and is particularly suitable for students who may have a primary degree in an entirely unrelated subject or significant professional experience without a primary degree. The HDip programme provides a detailed knowledge of the archaeology of Ireland in its global context, a broad range of the archaeological skills required to discover the past, and an appreciation of cultural diversity over space and time, while developing key transferable skills in research, time management and academic writing. The programme encourages students to think critically, and creates a solid foundation for further study.
We value and encourage students of all ages or backgrounds who are self-motivated, work well in a teamwork environment and demonstrate a capacity for critical and analytical thinking. Excellent communication skills are also especially valued. The programme is aimed at students who are interested in the study of human culture, societies and environments over time, as well as those with a specific interest in archaeology as a profession.
We are committed to providing a learning environment that encourages students to develop their own ideas in collaboration with fellow students and School staff. Archaeology is interdisciplinary, bridging the Arts and Sciences, and combines an exciting and varied range of approaches to developing knowledge and value of our archaeological heritage. Individual development and self-discovery is a key component of an archaeological training, as is sharing experiences and values as part of a team. Regular research seminars by visiting academics allow our students to engage with cutting-edge research in European and World Archaeology and strong links are maintained between School teaching and research in both the field and classroom.
Our teaching programme focuses on both Irish and international material, integrating the latest research carried out by staff to highlight Ireland's important position within the global archaeological community. We use a range of learning approaches, from traditional lectures and seminars to fieldtrips, laboratory and practical elements; our students engage with key archaeological sites and landscapes within Ireland through field-based teaching across a range of modules. Assessment strategies are varied, ranging from traditional essays to project plans, poster presentations and reflexive field journals. Field teaching is an essential part of archaeology, and a number of modules have elements of fieldwork. Please note that owing to the nature of the programme, participation in the School's ongoing summer field excavation is only possible for part-time students.
Programme Outcomes
- Apply discipline-specific archaeological skills and approaches, such as archaeological fieldwork or laboratory techniques
- Communicate through written, visual and oral media to specialist and non-specialist
- Conduct independent and self-planned evidence-based research projects, reflectively using appropriate professional methodologies and equipment
- Develop a detailed knowledge of Ireland's internationally-renowned archaeological record, underpinned by the global context
- Develop a detailed understanding of key changes in human society globally from prehistory to the present day, and how this influences the modern world
- Develop an advanced understanding of the latest international archaeological practice and research
- Gather, evaluate and interpret archaeological data, transforming it into knowledge in interdisciplinary context and communicating your results effectively
- Participate in field and laboratory-based archaeological projects
- Reflect upon the roles of archaeology and the past in modern society, the value of heritage and the context of appropriate legislation
- Work within large or small teams and independently, leading and being led as appropriate
Who should apply?
Full Time option suitable for:
Domestic(EEA) applicants: Yes
International (Non EEA) applicants currently residing outside of the EEA Region. Yes
Part Time option suitable for:
Domestic(EEA) applicants: Yes
International (Non EEA) applicants currently residing outside of the EEA Region. No
The HDip is designed for students with little or no prior archaeological training, and will fast track you through the advanced stages (Levels 2 and 3) of our undergraduate programme.
Subjects taught
Stage 1 - Core
How Archaeologists Think: an introduction to archaeological theoryARCH20520
Cultural Heritage
Stage 1 - Option
Archaeology of ThingsARCH20500
Archaeology of LandscapesARCH20510
Archaeological ScienceARCH20600
Historical ArchaeologyARCH20610
People in Prehistory: key themes and problemsARCH20620
Archaeological Field SkillsARCH20630
Combat ArchaeologyARCH30170
Experiment Archaeology & Ancient TechnologiesARCH30500
Archaeology of Collapse: Understanding crises and resilience in ancient societiesARCH30640
Research Project PreparationARCH30700
Southeast and East Asian ArchaeologyARCH30810
Medieval Buildings: An ArchARCH30830
Minoan ArchaeologyARCH30840
Research ProjectARCH30880
Roman Imperial Art, Architecture and Political Propaganda; how to spot fake news in the Roman worldARCH30910
Entry requirements
The HDip is designed for students with little or no prior archaeological training, and will fast track you through the advanced stages (Levels 2 and 3) of our undergraduate programme.
Application dates
The following entry routes are available:
HDip Archaeology FT (Z212)
Duration 1 Years Attend Full Time
Deadline Rolling*
HDip Archaeology PT (Z213) Duration 2 Years
Attend Part Time
Deadline Rolling*
* Courses will remain open until such time as all places have been filled, therefore early application is advised
Credits
60
Duration
Z212: 1 year full-time
Z213: 2 years part-time
Fees
HDip Archaeology (Z212) Full Time
EU: fee per year - €6105
nonEU: fee per year - €13270
HDip Archaeology (Z213) Part Time
EU: fee per year - €3650
nonEU: fee per year - €6635
***Fees are subject to change.
Tuition fee information is available on the UCD Fees website.
Enrolment dates
Next Intake: 2020/2021 September
Post Course Info
Careers & Employability
Following the HDip students are eligible to apply for the GDip/MA programmes in Archaeology. Alternatively, the HDip provides a strong basis for careers in archaeology, cultural heritage, tourism, government organisations, museums, as well as media, education, journalism, publishing, arts and cultural companies, environmental consultancy etc.