Welcome to the UCL Institute of Archaeology (IoA).
We are one of the UK's leading specialist institutions, we actively pursue research at archaeological sites and collections, as well as with living communities, both globally and locally.
You are now members of the IoA with its long tradition of excellence and inquiry. We aim to provide you with stimulating, research-led courses within flexible and wide-ranging degrees.
Currently ranked highly in league tables for our discipline, the Institute of Archaeology - which is situated within the UCL Faculty of Social and Historical Sciences - provides a world-class environment for students at all levels of study.
Opportunities are also available to members of the public to take courses at the Institute, to overseas and affiliate students wishing to spend some time at the Institute during their own degree programmes, and to those students requiring preparation for one of the Institute’s Masters Programmes. Use the links below to find out more about our different study pathways.
London has been named the best city to study in as ranked by QS Best Student Cities (2025).
Our programmes of study
Undergraduate
Our professionally-accredited BA and BSc degrees are designed to provide extensive training in archaeology: you can expect to learn about a full range of theoretical, analytical and field methods
Graduate Taught
We offer a diverse range of MA and MSc degrees that, unless otherwise indicated, are all available either full-time over one year (twelve months) or part-time over two years
Graduate Research
We offer a stimulating environment for advanced research and learning with supervision available in almost all areas of archaeology
Fieldwork
Fieldwork
Fieldwork is an important component of our degree programmes and contributes to the experience of our students.
Find out more
Affiliate Study
A Semester or Junior Year Abroad with us as an affiliate student is a unique opportunity to experience a world class programme in Archaeology.
Intensive Short Courses
We offer a number of intensive short courses providing participants with the opportunity to gain specialist skills.
Engagement with partner organisations
UCL - British Museum
Our students engage with London museums and heritage organisations and have contributed to the British Museum Young People's Programme highlighting their must-see objects for first-time visitors.
University Archaeology Day
Our students and staff will take part in the University Archaeology Day 2025 at the British Academy in London on 27 October.
Life at the Institute of Archaeology
Take a look around our world-class Institute. See for yourself what it’s like to study with us.
Careers
Studying at the Institute provides students with transferable skills valuable across a number of careers, not least becoming an Archaeologist.
Teaching Excellence
Currently ranked 3rd for subject area in the QS World Rankings, our degree programmes offer an unrivalled variety of course options.
New to UCL
Useful information for students settling in to UCL, including details on welfare and study.
International Students
Find information on Programmes of study, the application process, language requirements and fees as well as student support.
Got questions? Get in touch.
Contact us if you have any questions about studying Archaeology at UCL.
Undergraduate and Postgraduate (Taught) Admissions Enquiries
Click to email. admissions.ioa@ucl.ac.uk Click to call. +44 (0) 20 7679 1494
Postgraduate (Research) Admissions
Click to email. shs.pgr.admissions@ucl.ac.uk Click to call. +44 (0) 20 7679 7499