Course Summary
Have you ever wondered how archaeologists use the material remains of the past to reconstruct human behaviour?
The Level 7 Certificate in Introduction to Archaeological Interpretation is designed to provide the learner with a comprehensive introduction to the methods, frameworks, technology and theoretical paradigms utilised by archaeologists as they attempt to interpret the archaeological record and provide meaningful and accurate accounts of past human behaviour. This is the only online archaeology course of its kind offered in Ireland and will best suit students who have already gained at least a basic introduction to archaeology.
This 15-credit course comprises 3 modules, taught completely online over 1 year. These modules include How Archaeology is Done: Introduction to Archaeological Methods and Theory and Landscape Archaeology taught in Semester 1 and From Gods to Pests: The Role of Animals in Human Societies in Semester 2. Semester 1 classes start in September each year.
Other archaeology certificate courses you may be interested in: https://www.atu.ie/flexible-learning-courses-in-archaeology
This certificate course will be delivered by Mr Chris Read, Dr Fiona Beglane and Mr Sam Moore.
Key Course Information
Study hours: Whether you are studying part-time online, blended or full-time online, it is very important that you allocate enough study time to your online course to stay focused, reduce stress and achieve your goals. For part-time online or blended learning, it is recommended that you should try to allow for 5-6 hours per week per 5 credit module to your studies.
Live Lectures: Each of the two online modules on our Level 7 Certificate in Introduction to Archaeological Interpretation will entail 2 hours of lecturing per week. The live lectures will be recorded and made available on the module Moodle pages, in addition to power points and additional reading material. Students will also be encouraged to ask questions and share information via the Moodle pages. Discussion amongst students is strongly encouraged.
Examinations/Assessments: All three modules will have 2 pieces of assessment, a combination of online Moodle tests and essays. There will be no formal exams.
Application Closing Date : 15th August 2025
Entry Requirements
This course will suit anyone with a desire to deepen their understanding of archaeology and explore how archaeologists actually reconstruct the past.
Students will require an existing Level 6 qualification, or the equivalent in lived experience to secure entry. While not essential, this course will best suit students who already have a basic grounding in archaeology. Please contact the course coordinator if you have any questions.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of our Level 7 Certificate in Introduction to Archaeological Interpretation may find work as guides or volunteers in local museums and heritage centres; as guides on OPW sites; as General Operatives or volunteers on research excavations; and as General Operatives or volunteers on commercial excavations. This Level 6 Certificate in Introduction to Irish Archaeology will also cater to the interested public, not desiring credits.
The course will be of benefit to those who currently work in the national and international tourist market and wish to upskill, including tourist bus drivers/guides, those in cultural heritage tourism, those who run their own tourism companies or heritage centres, and those who working with local community groups on heritage tourism and/or heritage education.
Further Study
Graduates may progress to another Level 6 or Level 7 SPA programme.
Testimonials
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Programme Fees
Academic Year 2024/25 Fees
Total Programme Fees: €1,650
To help make the payment of fees more manageable for students who are self-funding their studies, tuition fees can be paid through payment instalment plans at ATU Sligo. For further information on instalment plans, please visit our Fees and Funding webpage.
If you apply and are approved for an online course at ATU Sligo, you will be required to pay a non-refundable deposit of €250 to secure your place. Your deposit will then be credited against the course fees once you are registered as a student. Students at ATU Sligo are also eligible to claim tax relief at the standard rate for tuition fees.
For further information and guidance about Fees and Funding for online and part-time courses at ATU Sligo, click here.
If you are seeking to take your exams online, and you meet the eligibility criteria (overseas students and those with extenuating circumstances), an additional examinations fee will apply. For further information, please visit our Examinations webpage.
Course Format
Semester 1
| Title | Credits |
|---|---|
| How Archaeology is done: Introduction to Archaeological Methods and Theory | 05 |
| From Gods to Pests: The Role of Animals in Human Societies | 05 |
Semester 2
| Title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Landscape Archaeology | 05 |