The Archaeology Graduate Diploma at UCL is fully integrated within the teaching programme of the Institute of Archaeology. The programme offers an education in all major aspects of archaeology, in a challenging yet supportive environment, under the supervision of teachers actively engaged in research at the forefront of the field. By the end of the programme, students will have developed an understanding of past societies within their cultural, socio-political, economic, historical and environmental contexts, as well as the current social and political context of archaeology, with particular reference to the management, interpretation and presentation of archaeological heritage. Depending on their choice of optional modules, students will also have gained knowledge and understanding of specific topics.

The programme provides a solid foundation for students whose first degree is in a non-archaeology subject and who wish to pursue graduate studies (MA and higher) in archaeology and develop their own interests, which they will also pursue at graduate level. The diploma is also designed to provide an academic qualification in archaeology for students wishing to explore employment opportunities in the field.