UCAS code V4B1
Evolutionary Anthropology represents the deep time perspective of anthropology in the broadest sense. Anthropology encompasses the biological and social study of humans as complex organisms with the capacity for language, thought, and culture.
This unique multidisciplinary course, the only one of its kind in the UK, gives you the opportunity to explore what it means to be human, from the appearance of the first hominins around seven million years ago, to the establishment of the earliest settled agricultural societies.
The course brings together key areas of evolutionary anthropology, including archaeology, hominin palaeontology, primatology, evolutionary psychology, and palaeoenvironmental studies, with opportunities to specialise by taking modules outside the department in biological and/or environmental sciences (subject to approval).
Throughout the course, you will gain hands-on experience and practical knowledge through fieldwork or relevant professional experience. This normally includes our departmental field school and approved placements, with opportunities linked to staff research projects, currently including excavations in Kenya, Turkey, Mongolia, Saudi Arabia, Japan and the UK.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
Students take 45 credits of required modules and 15 credits of optional modules in semester one.
Students take 45 credits of required modules and 15 credits of optional in semester two.
BIOS modules usually require A level Biology. Registration for these modules requires prior consultation with the Evolutionary Anthropology Subject Lead, and approval from the module convenor in Biological Sciences.
Students seeking to graduate with a degree accredited by the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA) accreditation must take ALGY101, ALGY102, ALGY248, ALGY250, ALGY399, ALGY450, ACE Archaeological Field School assessed in ALGY248, and a further 10 days of fieldwork/employability experience.
Students are required to complete 20 days of archaeological fieldwork training, normally during the summer vacation period at the end of year one and year two. The first episode of fieldwork is the ACE Field School that takes place just after the semester two assessment period, but is formally assessed through ALGY248, taken in semester one of year two.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| FRAMING ANTIQUITY (CLAH100) | 30 |
| THE PERSPECTIVE OF EVOLUTIONARY ANTHROPOLOGY (ALGY135) | 30 |
| PRINCIPLES OF ARCHAEOLOGY (ALGY101) | 15 |
| INTRODUCTION TO BIOANTHROPOLOGY (ALGY119) | 15 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change. This course has been updated for 2027 entry as part of a review of all our programmes. This review has considered refining study pathways, strengthening links with employers, integrating generative AI, developing students’ research skills, and enhancing alignment with our research strengths. Please note, as at all times, the University reserves the right to make reasonable changes, including to content, entry requirements, or fees, or to discontinue programmes. Applicants will be informed of any significant change.
Students take 45 credits of required modules and 15 credits of optional modules in semester one.
Students take 45 credits of required modules and 15 credits of optional modules in semester two.
CLAH222 requires prior approval and is subject to a suitable placement being sourced. Students will not be able to register directly for this module.
BIOS modules usually require A-level Biology. Registration for these modules requires prior consultation with the Evolutionary Anthropology Subject Lead, and approval from the module convenor in Biological Sciences. BIOS207 requires completion of BIOS104.
Students may take appropriate Level 4 modules up to a total of 30 credits, with prior approval from the Subject Lead and subject to timetabling.
Students may take 15 credits of optional cognate modules outside of their degree programme, with permission from the Subject Lead.
Registration onto HLAC220 is for students planning to undertake a Work Placement Year between second and final year, or for those who are interested in developing their transferrable skills in preparation for a short placement or other work experience.
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change. This course has been updated for 2027 entry as part of a review of all our programmes. This review has considered refining study pathways, strengthening links with employers, integrating generative AI, developing students’ research skills, and enhancing alignment with our research strengths. Please note, as at all times, the University reserves the right to make reasonable changes, including to content, entry requirements, or fees, or to discontinue programmes. Applicants will be informed of any significant change.
Students take 60 credits of required modules in semester one. Students take 30 credits of required modules and 30 credits of optional modules in semester two.
ALGY450 is a ‘year-long’ module and represents 15 credits in each semester.
Students taking a programme with the following modules will have to opportunity to qualify with a Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA) accreditation. To qualify, students must have taken ALGY101, ALGY102, ALGY248, ALGY250, ALGY399, ALGY450, ACE Archaeological Field School assessed in ALGY248, and a further 10 days of fieldwork/employability experience.
With the permission of the Subject Lead, it is also possible to choose 15 credits from those offered at Level 5, so as to fit the themed pathway or to support your dissertation, and/or take 15 credits of optional cognate modules outside of your degree programme.
| Optional modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| RETHINKING STONEHENGE (BRITISH AND IRISH PREHISTORY) (ALGY357) | 15 |
| MAKING HERITAGE HAPPEN (HLAC315) | 15 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change. This course has been updated for 2027 entry as part of a review of all our programmes. This review has considered refining study pathways, strengthening links with employers, integrating generative AI, developing students’ research skills, and enhancing alignment with our research strengths. Please note, as at all times, the University reserves the right to make reasonable changes, including to content, entry requirements, or fees, or to discontinue programmes. Applicants will be informed of any significant change.
You will learn through a combination of lectures, seminars, practical classes, fieldwork and independent study. In your first year, you will build a foundation in evolutionary anthropology, archaeology and bioanthropology, developing an understanding of human biological and cultural evolution. As you progress through the degree, you will engage more closely with current research, specialist topics and practical methods used to investigate the human past.
The programme takes a multidisciplinary approach, drawing on archaeology, anthropology, environmental science, genetics, evolutionary psychology and palaeoanthropology. You will have opportunities to work with archaeological and bioanthropological collections, develop laboratory and analytical skills, undertake fieldwork, and complete an independent dissertation project in your final year.
Learning is supported through Canvas, the University’s online learning platform, alongside regular guidance from academic staff, feedback opportunities and access to specialist facilities and teaching collections.
You will be assessed through a diverse range of methods designed to develop both subject-specific knowledge and transferable skills. These include essays, practical and project reports, portfolios, presentations, data analysis exercises, policy papers, grant applications and an independent dissertation.
Assessment is designed to reflect the kinds of work undertaken by professionals in the sector, helping you develop skills in research, critical analysis, communication, problem-solving and project management. Practical and fieldwork-based activities may also form part of your assessment, alongside opportunities for reflective and independent learning.
Throughout the programme, you will receive regular feedback to support your academic development and help you build the confidence and skills valued by employers and postgraduate study providers.
At Liverpool, we take a distinctive approach to education through the Liverpool Learning Framework. This means teaching that is engaging, inclusive and designed to help you succeed during your studies and beyond.
You’ll develop specialist subject knowledge alongside the skills employers value most, including:
Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:
We also embed key priorities across our curriculum, including AI literacy, employability, and sustainability, helping you prepare for the future and make a positive impact in the world.
We’re committed to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive.
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
University of Liverpool students can choose from an exciting range of study placements at partner universities worldwide. Choose to spend a year at XJTLU in China or a year or semester at an institution of your choice.
Immerse yourself in Chinese culture on an optional additional year at Xi'an Jiaotong Liverpool University in stunning Suzhou.
Broaden your world by spending an additional year of study at a partner university abroad following your second year of study.
Take a semester of your second year of study at one of our worldwide partner institutions.
Spend a summer abroad on a study placement or research project at one of our worldwide partner institutions.
Every student at The University of Liverpool can study a language as part of, or alongside their degree. You can choose:
The Department of Archaeology, Classics and Egyptology is part of the School of Histories, Languages and Cultures. Teaching takes place across campus, including in specialist facilities in the Central Teaching Hub.
From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:
Want to find out more about student life?
Chat with our student ambassadors and ask any questions you have.
Students who graduate from Evolutionary Anthropology are equipped with skills required for employment or advanced study in archaeology or anthropology. In addition to the subject-specific career pathways, graduates have also gone on to careers in a range of public service and private industry, for example the police, science journalism or financial services. Many past students have progressed through doctoral studies.
Recent employers include:
Hear what graduates say about their career progression and life after university.
Jack graduated BSc Hons Evolutionary Anthropology in 2019 and is graduating MRes Palaeoanthropology degree from the University of Liverpool in 2020. He has received an offer to undertake a unique 19-month programme of language study, work placement and homestay in Japan with Daiwa Anglo-Japanese Foundation.
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Full-time place, per year - £10,050
Year in industry fee - £2,010
Year abroad fee - £1,508 (applies to year in China)
Full-time place, per year - £27,000
Year in industry fee - £1,955
Year abroad fee - £13,500 (applies to year in China)
The UK fees shown are for the academic year 2027/28. The international fees shown are for the academic year 2026/27 and will be subject for change for the academic year 2027/28. Please be advised that tuition fees may increase each year for both UK and international students. For UK students, this will be subject to the government’s regulated fee limits.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support. Learn more about paying for your studies.
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. You can find information on the general and subject-specific costs you could expect to incur on our study costs webpage.
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.
4 scholarships are available each year to support undergraduate applicants from socio-economically under-represented backgrounds who permanently reside in the Liverpool City Region. Successful applicants will receive a stipend of £5,000 per year for 3 years. Applications open in August 2026.
This scholarship will support undergraduate students from widening participation backgrounds in the Department of Languages, Cultures and Film with their year abroad.
This award offers £3,000 per year for a UK undergraduate student from an under-represented background who has successfully completed the Liverpool Scholars or Pathways to Medicine programme.
If you’re a UK student joining an undergraduate degree and have a household income below £35,000, you could be eligible for a Liverpool Bursary worth up to £2,000 for each year of undergraduate study.
Apply for an Asylum Seekers Scholarship and you could have your tuition fees paid in full and receive help with study costs. You’ll need to have applied for asylum in the UK, or be the dependant of an asylum seeker, and be joining an eligible undergraduate degree.
If you’ve spent 13 or more weeks in Local Authority care since age 14, you could be eligible for a bursary of £3,000 per year of study. You’ll need to be a UK student joining an eligible undergraduate degree and be aged 28 or above on 1 September in the year you start.
Are you a UK student with a Black African or Caribbean heritage and a household income of £25,000 or less? You could be eligible to apply for a Cowrie Foundation Scholarship worth up to £8,000 for each year of undergraduate study.
If you’re a UK student identified as estranged by Student Finance England (or the equivalent UK funding body), you could be eligible for a bursary of £1,000 for each year of undergraduate study.
Joining a School of Biosciences degree and have a household income of less than £25,000? If you’re a UK student, you could apply to receive £4,500 per year for three years of your undergraduate course.
Do you live in the Liverpool City Region with a household income of £25,000 or less? Did neither of your parents attend University? You could be eligible to apply for a Nolan Scholarship worth £5,000 per year for three years of undergraduate study.
Are you a UK student with a household income of £25,000 or less? If you’ve participated in an eligible outreach programme, you could be eligible to apply for a Rigby Enterprise Award worth £5,000 per year for three years of your undergraduate degree.
Are you a UK student with a household income of £26,500 or less? Did neither of your parents attend University? You could be eligible to apply for a ROLABOTIC Scholarship worth £4,500 for each year of your undergraduate degree.
Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.
Joining a degree in the School of Electrical Engineering, Electronics and Computer Science? If you’re a UK student with household income below £25,000, you could be eligible to apply for £5,000 a year for three years of study. Two awards will be available per academic year.
If you’re a young adult and a registered carer in the UK, you might be eligible for a £1,000 bursary for each year of study. You’ll need to be aged 18-25 on 1 September in the year you start your undergraduate degree.
The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| A levels |
BBB Applicants with the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) are eligible for a reduction in grade requirements. For this course, the offer is BBC from A levels, with B in the EPQ. You may automatically qualify for reduced entry requirements through our contextual offers scheme. Based on your personal circumstances, you may automatically qualify for up to a two-grade reduction in the entry requirements needed for this course. When you apply, we consider a range of factors – such as where you live – to assess if you’re eligible for a grade reduction. You don’t have to make an application for a grade reduction – we’ll do all the work. Find out more about how we make reduced grade offers. |
| T levels |
T levels considered in a relevant subject. Applicants should contact us by completing the enquiry form on our website to discuss specific requirements in the core components and the occupational specialism. |
| GCSE |
4/C in English and 4/C in Mathematics |
| BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma | BTEC applications are encouraged. We evaluate each BTEC application on its merits. |
| International Baccalaureate | 30 points overall with no score less than 4 or pass the IB Diploma plus 5,5,5 in 3 HL subjects. |
| Irish Leaving Certificate | H2, H2, H2, H3, H3, H3 |
| Scottish Higher/Advanced Higher | BBB in Advanced Highers, combinations of Advanced Highers and Scottish Highers are welcome |
| Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced | B in the Welsh Baccalaureate, plus BB at A level. |
| Access | Pass relevant Access to HE Diploma(Humanities/Social Science) with 45 Level 3 credits with 30 at Distinction and 15 at Merit. |
| International qualifications |
If you hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet our entry requirements, you could be eligible for a Pre-Master’s course. This is offered on campus at the University of Liverpool International College, in partnership with Kaplan International Pathways. It’s a specialist preparation course for postgraduate study, and when you pass the Pre-Master’s at the required level with good attendance, you’re guaranteed entry to a University of Liverpool master’s degree. |
You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.
We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.5 overall, with no component below 5.5 |
| TOEFL iBT | If you took a TOEFL test on or before 20 January 2026, you’ll need 88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 17, writing 17, reading 17 and speaking 19. If you took a TOEFL test from 21 January 2026 onwards, when a new scoring system was introduced, you’ll need 4.5 overall, with 4 or above in all components. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted. |
| Duolingo English Test | 125 overall, with speaking, reading and writing not less than 105, and listening not below 100 |
| Pearson PTE Academic | 61 overall, with no component below 59 |
| LanguageCert Academic | 70 overall, with no skill below 60 |
| Cambridge IGCSE First Language English 0500 | Grade C overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking and listening. Speaking and listening must be separately endorsed on the certificate. |
| Cambridge IGCSE First Language English 0990 | Grade 4 overall, with Merit in speaking and listening |
| Cambridge IGCSE Second Language English 0510/0511 | 0510: Grade B overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking. Speaking must be separately endorsed on the certificate. 0511: Grade B overall. |
| Cambridge IGCSE Second Language English 0993/0991 | 0993: Grade 6 overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking. Speaking must be separately endorsed on the certificate. 0991: Grade 6 overall. |
| Cambridge ESOL Level 2/3 Advanced | 176 overall, with no paper below 162 |
| International Baccalaureate English A: Literature or Language & Literature | Grade 5 at Standard Level or grade 5 at Higher Level |
| International Baccalaureate English B | Grade 7 at Standard Level or grade 6 at Higher Level |
Do you need to complete a Pre-sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-sessional English course you require.
Use the table below to check the course length you're likely to require for your current English language ability and see whether the course is available on campus or online.
| Your most recent IELTS score | Pre-sessional English course length | On campus or online |
|---|---|---|
| 6.0 overall, with no component below 5.5 | 6 weeks | On campus or online |
| 5.5 overall, with no more than one component at 5.0 | 10 weeks | On campus or online |
| 5.5 overall, with no component below 5.0 | 12 weeks | Online |
| 5.0 overall, with no component below 5.0 | 20 weeks | On campus |
| 5.0 overall, with no component below 4.5 | 30 weeks | On campus |
| 4.5 overall, with no more than one component at 4.0 | 40 weeks | On campus |
If you’ve completed an alternative English language test to IELTS, we may be able to use this to assess your English language ability and determine the Pre-sessional English course length you require.
Please see our guide to Pre-sessional English entry requirements for IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 5.5, for further details.
Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.
Last updated 31 July 2026 / / Programme terms and conditions