Museum Studies and Archaeology with International Foundation Year

Museum studies and archaeology is a combination that connects two disciplines with an obvious and productive relationship: archaeology generates the artefacts, records, and knowledge that museums exist to curate, interpret, and present, and museum practice provides the professional context within which much archaeological material is conserved and made accessible to the public. Studying them together means you develop both the field and analytical skills of the archaeologist and the curatorial, interpretive, and institutional knowledge of the museum professional.

At the University of Reading, this four-year, full-time degree with an international foundation year is designed to welcome students who need an additional preparatory year before entering the main programme. The international foundation year acknowledges the global context of museum and archaeological study, and Reading's international student community and research connections enrich the learning environment. You will study the principles and practice of museology alongside the archaeological methods, theory, and material culture analysis that underpin professional practice in both fields.

Reading has a long tradition of excellence in both archaeology and museum studies, with strong links to the museum sector and heritage organisations. The typical entry tariff of 104 points reflects the foundation year entry requirements.

Graduates of museum studies and archaeology work in museums, galleries, heritage organisations, archaeological units, local and national government heritage services, cultural trusts, and arts organisations. Roles include curator, collections manager, interpretation officer, heritage consultant, and archaeological site director. Many graduates also go on to postgraduate study in museum studies, archaeological science, heritage management, or conservation, developing specialist expertise for senior professional or research roles in a sector that values both the depth of subject knowledge and the professional skills this combination provides.