Introduction

The Institute of Technology Sligo, located on the northwest coast of the Republic of Ireland, is one of Ireland’s premier centres of archaeological education and research. Located within the School of Science, Ireland’s only BSc. in Applied Archaeology was established in 2003. This is our second archaeological summer school after the very successful Kilteasheen Archaeological Project that ran from 2005 to 2009. 

This year’s summer school, May 15th to June 9th, 2017, will combine a practical course in archaeological excavation techniques (at a medieval castle) with a taught module (lectures and field trips) on Irish prehistoric and medieval archaeology.

Sligo – A rich archaeological location

The Sligo region is unique as it has one of Europe’s highest concentrations of prehistoric and later archaeological monuments. Well-preserved sites can be found dating from the period of hunter gatherers (c.8000-4000 BC) through to industrial developments in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. There are over 7000 recorded archaeological sites in Sligo, which is remarkable considering the county makes up only 2.5% of the total landmass of Ireland Having 15% of the total Irish megalithic monuments, Sligo is perhaps best known for the extraordinary wealth of Neolithic sites (c.4000-2400 BC), which were built by the first farmers. Many of these Neolithic sites are the earliest in the country, such as the causewayed enclosure at Magheraboy and the passage tombs at Carrowmore. From its prehistoric megaliths, medieval castles and monasteries to its mythology, landscape and strategic location, Sligo is a perfect place to encounter every aspect of Ireland’s archaeological, historical and cultural heritage.

B.Sc. in Applied Archaeology

The BSc in Applied Archaeology at IT Sligo is unique among archaeology courses. Offering 3 (Ordinary) and 4 (Honours) year degrees, students study exclusively archaeology and related scientific disciplines, including numerous field, practical and lab based courses covering soil science and geology, topographical and geophysical survey, forensic archaeology, excavation, zooarchaeology and human osteology, materials analysis, GIS and artefact conservation among others.

IT Sligo also offers a two year research MSc. and a 3 year PhD. in archaeology. Contact Academic Staff member or the Research Office for more details.

Learn more about studying archaeology at IT Sligo or drop an email to info@nullitsligo.ie