The Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA) and University Archaeology UK (UAUK) have announced details of the first academic programmes to be formally accredited as providing skills relevant to a career in the historic environment. The programmes being accredited are offered by
- University of Bradford
- University of Bournemouth
- University of Durham
- University of Leicester
- University of Reading
- University of Central Lancashire
- University College London
A full list of the accredited programmes can be found at www.archaeologists.net/Accredited_Degrees
Second round applications are currently being assessed and will be announced in the Spring. The next application deadline is 1 June 2020, see www.archaeologists.net/Degree_Accreditation_information_for_training_providers for details.
Choosing an accredited undergraduate or Masters degree is a well-established career entry route in many sectors including engineering, planning and architecture, and is widely recognised as the first step on a career pathway leading to professional status. Through this joint initiative, CIfA and UAUK hope to
- Foster continued strong relations between industry and academia
- Encourage graduates to seek a career in the historic environment if they so wish
- Further embed professional standards into archaeology degrees in the UK
- Encourage academics to be more involved in the work and advocacy of the CIfA
- Encourage archaeologists outside academia to be more involved with university provision
The chair of University Archaeology UK (UAUK), Chris Gerrard, commented '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’
CIfA Chief Executive Peter Hinton said ‘We are delighted to be working with UAUK on this important initiative. Ensuring that students are able to gain skills relevant to a career in the historic environment is vital if the sector is to have access to sufficient competent, accredited professionals to meet the demand for historic environment services and to deliver public benefit.’
