Environmental Archaeology and its methods
Summary
The course provides advanced knowledge in environmental archaeology, with a focus on laboratory methods for analysing environmental samples from archaeological contexts. You will learn documentation, sampling, and analysis of soil and plant remains, including physical and chemical analyses as well as microscopy of microfossils. The course combines theoretical perspectives, practical laboratory work, and an independent project.
About
The course provides advanced knowledge in environmental archaeology and introduces key laboratory methods used to study environmental evidence from archaeological contexts. During the course, you will develop a critical understanding of methodological choices and learn how laboratory analyses can be used to address archaeological research questions.
You will learn methods for documentation, sampling, and analysis of environmental archaeological materials. Practical components include analyses of soil and plant remains, as well as studies of soil physical and chemical properties. The course also includes microscopic analysis of microfossils.
The course consists of two modules:
1. Principles and practices, 5 credits
This module introduces fundamental principles of environmental archaeology and provides an overview of key approaches used in both fieldwork and laboratory settings.
2. Environmental archaeological laboratory methods, 10 credits
In this module, you will gain more advanced training in laboratory methods for analysing soil and plant remains. You will develop practical skills in sorting and recording environmental samples, conducting physical and chemical analyses, and using microscopy to study microfossil remains.
As part of the course, you will complete an individual project in which you analyse material and write a report. You will choose a project topic and material from a list provided by the course coordinator.
Prerequisites and selection
Entry requirements
Admission to the course requires a Bachelor of Arts in Archaeology or the equivalent of 180 higher education credits of which 90 credits within the disciplines of Archaeology or Classical Studies and Ancient History.
Admission to the course is also granted with a Bachelor's degree in Cultural Heritage, including basic and advanced courses in the main field of Archaeology (60 credits).
Selection
Selection is based upon the number of credits from previous university studies, maximum 165 credits.
