Fieldwork

Archaeological dig

Fieldwork is essential within any natural science; key to developing subject knowledge and practical skills. The ability to observe, record and analyse data underpins scientific method developing capacity and skill in problem-solving something which can be applied to any profession.

At Bournemouth University we are committed to fieldwork as part of your professional training. We believe that undertaking practical training in our local environment equips you with the skills which allow you to pursue research focused fieldwork either in the UK or overseas as part of research projects and placements.

We engage students in our own research projects, giving them first-hand experience of, and allowing them to contribute to, real research projects often with international dimensions.

All fieldwork that is part of a credit rated unit, with the exception of research projects, is included in your course fee. Overseas fieldwork is provided through placements, student research projects and the opportunity to participate in international research projects.

Every undergraduate archaeologist receives training in survey and excavation skills prior to taking part in a local field school where they excavate part of Dorset's historic landscape. Those studying Wildlife Conservation, Applied Geography or Environmental Science also undertake a range of fieldwork training in their first year before developing their skills further in the second year during a more prolonged period of fieldwork. Forensic scientists develop their crime scene skills in Rose Cottage, our purpose built crime house on our crime plot in rural Dorset where we have a range of outdoor crime scenes and experiments established. Crime scenes are also re-created for investigation purposes at Dorset County Council's Streetwise facilities, only a couple of miles away.

Many students undertake overseas fieldwork as part of placements and we have a range of research-led fieldwork and expeditions in which students can participate. In the past, we have had students take part in research expeditions to Ecuador, Iceland, Kenya and Kazakhstan. Why not check out our Applied Sciences around the world page to find out more about fieldwork in the School of Applied Sciences?

Student highlights of their time studying within the School of Applied Sciences:

• "The fieldwork & placement aspect of the course and gaining practical experience." BSc Archaeology
• "Knowlton field school - getting to know everyone and gaining practical experience." BSc Archaeological & Forensic Sciences
• "Field trips - the 'real life' situation learning, knowledge of staff and willingness to share information." BSc Ecology & Wildlife Conservation
• "Opportunity to undertake two six-week placements and field trip to Portugal." BSc Applied Geography
• "Using Rose Cottage and the crime scene labs." BSc Forensic & Crime Scene Science
• "Anthropology lab, use of real physical remains. Rose Cottage in year 1." BSc Forensic & Crime Scene Science
• "Working in the lab, Rose cottage and Streetwise. Anthropology lab especially." BSc Forensic & Crime Scene Science