University archaeology course gains new accreditation.

A University of Chester course has received new accreditation from top professional UK bodies, placing it among just 11 UK Higher Education Institutions to have achieved the accolade.

The Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA) and University Archaeology UK (UAUK) have awarded the University the accreditation for its undergraduate Archaeology degree programme, recognising how it provides skills relevant to a career in the historic environment.

The accreditation was developed to provide a career route in archaeology and heritage, as well as fostering strong relations between industry and academia. Choosing an accredited degree is a well-established career entry route in many sectors and is widely recognised as the first step on a career pathway leading to professional status.

Professor Meggen Gondek, Head of the Department of History and Archaeology at the University of Chester said: “The entire team is delighted to have the Single Honours Archaeology degree accredited by CIfA.

“This recognition underlines the strong practical and range of applied training in Archaeology we provide, how we prepare our students for future success and our commitment to developing the professional and transferable skills of all of our students.”

Chris Gerrard, Chair of University Archaeology UK (UAUK) said: “Accreditation is an exciting new initiative for students taking archaeology courses at universities and for the profession more widely. It recognises the value of real knowledge of working practices across the sector by students across the UK.”

Student membership of CIfA is offered to all students enrolled on an accredited programme, which includes access to its e-learning modules and specialist professional networks, receiving The Archaeologist magazine and jobs bulletins. On graduating from an accredited degree, a graduate should meet the criteria for PCIfA (Practitioner) grade. 

Peter Hinton, CIfA Chief Executive said: “We are delighted to be able to accredit the University of Chester’s BA Archaeology programme.”

He continued to say how it supports archaeology departments to deliver the skills that the profession needs and that are in high demand.

“It also enables students to identify those courses which will provide them with the skills they need to progress their archaeological careers,” he added.

For further information on the accreditation, please visit the CIfA website at: https://www.archaeologists.net/Accredited_Degrees.

More details on UAUK are available at:

https://www.universityarchaeology.co.uk.

Pictured - Student archaeologists at excavations.