UNIVERSITY OF YORK · UNITED KINGDOM
BSc (Hons) Bioarchaeology
Bachelor's · Taught in en · UCAS V403
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€31k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- 11th in the UKArchaeology ranking (Complete University Guide, 2027)
- 5th in the UK, 16th in the worldQS World University Rankings by Subject, 2026
- =2nd in the Russell GroupLearning resources and Academic support (National Student Survey, 2025)
- 3 years full-timeCourse duration
- V403UCAS Code
- September 2026Start date
BSc Bioarchaeology at the University of York investigates ancient human populations by analyzing bones, DNA, and environmental evidence. This program uniquely combines scientific disciplines with a strong interest in history. You will learn to perform isotopic analysis on remains, analyze proteins from ancient objects, and examine ancient DNA to understand human history. The university's Department of Archaeology is internationally renowned, with strong collaborative links to the BioArCh centre, which brings together expertise from Archaeology, Biology, and Chemistry. This interdisciplinary approach offers a comprehensive understanding of past human life and environments. The department is known for its welcoming atmosphere, allowing for close interaction with lecturers and offering numerous opportunities for practical involvement in research and fieldwork.
Curriculum
The first year of the Bioarchaeology BSc program shares core modules with other archaeology courses, allowing for flexibility to change disciplines. Practical lab experience begins in the second year. Students have considerable freedom in module selection. An excavation is part of the first year's curriculum, providing hands-on experience in data collection and analysis within a research project context. The university also assists students in finding voluntary or paid excavation opportunities during vacations, potentially abroad.
- Year 1
- Prehistory to the PresentARC00001C
- Artefacts and MaterialsARC00002C
- Archaeological TheoryARC00005C
- Introduction to Archaeological ScienceARC00006C
- Discovering ArchaeologyARC00004C
- Exploring ArchaeologyARC00011C
- Academic Integrity module
- Year 2
- Post-ExcavationARC00068I
- Interpreting Prehistory OR Interpreting Historical ArchaeologyARC00070I / ARC00073I
- Practical Skills modules (choose two)
- Option modules (choose two)
- Elective modules (optional)
- Year 3
- DissertationARC00038H
- Specialist option modules (choose four)
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for international students for the BSc Bioarchaeology program?
- For the 2026/27 academic year, the tuition fee for international students is £26,900 per year.
- How long does the BSc Bioarchaeology program typically take to complete?
- The BSc Bioarchaeology program is a full-time course that typically takes 3 years to complete.
- What are the academic entry requirements for the BSc Bioarchaeology program?
- The academic entry requirement is ABB at A Level. The university accepts a wide range of international qualifications.
- How do I apply for the BSc Bioarchaeology program as an international student?
- Applications are made through UCAS using institution code Y50 and course code V403. You will need to check entry requirements, apply via UCAS, and submit supporting documents like transcripts and a personal statement.
- What kind of career paths can graduates pursue after completing this program?
- Graduates are prepared for careers in archaeological research, heritage management, and scientific analysis due to their blend of scientific and historical knowledge.
- Does the University of York offer any support for international students who don't meet the direct entry requirements?
- Yes, the University of York offers international pathway courses designed to help students prepare for degree-level study if they do not meet the direct entry requirements.
Entry requirements
A LevelABB
The University of York accepts a wide range of international qualifications. If you are a non-native English speaker, evidence of English language ability will be required. International pathway courses are available for students who do not meet the direct entry requirements.
Fees
Tuition (international)£26,900 per year
Tuition (home)£9,790 per year
Living—
Fees are for the 2026/27 academic year. Information on living costs can be found via the university's undergraduate living costs guides.
How to apply
1. Check Entry RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic and English language requirements for the BSc Bioarchaeology program. International qualifications are accepted, and advice is available for non-native English speakers.
2. Apply via UCASSubmit your application through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) using the institution code Y50 and course code V403.
3. Consider Pathway CoursesIf you do not meet the direct entry requirements, the University of York offers international pathway courses to help you prepare for degree-level study.
4. Submit Supporting DocumentsPrepare and submit any required documents, which may include transcripts, certificates, and a personal statement. International students should consult the university's international admissions team for specific documentation.
5. Await DecisionAdmissions tutors will review your application, considering your personal statement, academic record, and any other relevant circumstances. The university may also consider contextual offers for applicants who have faced barriers to education.
Accreditation
This course is accredited by the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA), the leading professional body for archaeologists in the UK and overseas.
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students for the BSc Bioarchaeology program?
+
For the 2026/27 academic year, the tuition fee for international students is £26,900 per year.
How long does the BSc Bioarchaeology program typically take to complete?
+
The BSc Bioarchaeology program is a full-time course that typically takes 3 years to complete.
What are the academic entry requirements for the BSc Bioarchaeology program?
+
The academic entry requirement is ABB at A Level. The university accepts a wide range of international qualifications.
How do I apply for the BSc Bioarchaeology program as an international student?
+
Applications are made through UCAS using institution code Y50 and course code V403. You will need to check entry requirements, apply via UCAS, and submit supporting documents like transcripts and a personal statement.
What kind of career paths can graduates pursue after completing this program?
+
Graduates are prepared for careers in archaeological research, heritage management, and scientific analysis due to their blend of scientific and historical knowledge.
Does the University of York offer any support for international students who don't meet the direct entry requirements?
+
Yes, the University of York offers international pathway courses designed to help students prepare for degree-level study if they do not meet the direct entry requirements.