New Opportunities For Part Time Study

Many hundreds, indeed probably thousands, of people have studied part-time in recent years on archaeology and history courses organized by the School of Continuing Education at the University of Kent. These courses have been held at many locations around Kent and often have been run locally in association with either the Kent Adult Education Service or the Workers' Education Association.

The School of Continuing Education, in common with all other university adult education departments, is now able to offer academic credit for those country-wide courses which can be counted towards a higher education qualification. It will still be possible for anyone to join and to follow the courses simply for interest and pleasure, but those who wish will be able to have their learning assessed and hence earn credit towards the University's Certificate in Combined Studies.

Certificate and Diploma programs focused specifically on historical and archaeological studies now figure prominently in the School's activities at its bases at Canterbury and Tonbridge. These require study over two years on a part-time basis, usually one, two-hour meeting a week supported by directed private study. Those who can demonstrate that they have the interest and aptitude to study at this level can join but this does not mean that formal examination qualifications are an entry requirement.

It is now possible to take a Certificate in Archaeological Studies which is devoted to learning about the character of the archaeological process in the context of themes drawn from British archaeology followed by a two-year Diploma in Archaeological Studies which extends perspectives to Europe and the Mediterranean.

A Certificate in the Theory and Practice of Local History introduces a range of sources and techniques available for investigating regional history based largely on material drawn from Kent. The Diploma in Kentish History extends critical understanding of important aspects of the County's history.

The Diploma in Independent Studies offers an opportunity for those who wish to progress their studies still further, even to degree level. The Diploma provides a framework within which students can acquire the skills to undertake in-depth studies on topics of particular personal interest negotiated with an academic subject specialist. Archaeological and historical themes will provide very suitable topics for this diploma.

Related programs of part-time study include a Certificate in Classical Studies and the Diploma in the History, Design, and Management of Gardens.

Programs starting in October 1995:

Certificate in Archaeological Studies, at Tonbridge

Diploma in Archaeological Studies, at Tonbridge

Certificate in the Theory and Practice of Local History, at Canterbury. For further information contact: School of Continuing Education University of Kent Canterbury CT2 7NX Tel: 01227 823507

Anthony Ward, MA Ph.D.
Deputy Director, Academic Affairs