Shetland’s Archaeological Monuments and Landscapes College Certificate

What is special about this course?

The field visits will look at groups of sites in different parts of the archipelago, mainly on Mainland Shetland but with one trip to the North Isles. No qualifications or previous experience of archaeology is required, but students will need a reasonable level of written English ability to successfully complete the module’s assignments. The course would suit those with a general interest in Shetland’s past or those wishing to pursue a career in tour guiding or in museums / heritage centres.

Suitable for general interest or as CPD for Shetland Tour Guides.

Entry requirements

No interview required but contact Simon Clarke to discuss course suitability for potential applicants.

There are no formal qualifications required.

  1. Lerwick; Clickimin Broch, Commercial Street / the Lodberries, Fort Charlotte, Bod of Gremista.
  2. Sumburgh Area; Scatness, Jarlshoff, Ness of Bergi, Eastshore, West Voe.
  3. Scalloway and Tingwall; Scalloway Castle, WWII Shetland Bus sites, Broch site, Law Thing and St Magnus Church. 
  4. Mavis Grind: Islesburgh tomb and Neolithic enclosure, Mangaster tomb and Neolithic House
  5. West Side: Staneydale, Gruting School, Pinhouland and Scord of Brewster.
  6. North Roe: Fetherland Fishing Station and Kame of Isbister Fortress.
  7. Levenwick Broch and St Ninians
  8. Unst: Muness Castle, Belmont house, Viking Unst Excavations, RAF Skaw Chain Home Radar Station.

Each module is 40 hours of learning. Fieldtrips will normally be about 3 hours in the field, 10am to 1pm, not counting travel to the start point. Additional self-directed time will be required to research and write the module assessment.

Equipment

Students would be required to get themselves to the field trip rendezvous by their own means and be equipped to walk to the monuments.

How will I study my course?

  • Online

8 trips out to see the landscapes and monuments of Shetland, as tutor led guided walks.

How long will my course last?

8 Weeks

The course comprises 8 trips out to see the landscapes and monuments of Shetland. The field trips will be on Saturday 22nd April 2023 to 10th June inclusive, from 10:00 to 13:00.

How will I be assessed?

    On completion of this course, the student should have:

    1. The ability to recognise archaeological features in the landscape.
    2. An understanding of how the Shetland has been changed dramatically by successive layers of human intervention to create a palimpsest anthropogenic landscape.
    3. An insight into the problems of preserving and presenting the archaeological heritage of Shetland.

    Assessment by a 500 word report supported by maps / plans and photographs.

Where can I study my course?

    Start date

    22nd April 2023 

    Fees

    • £63

    Additional costs

    Field trips will require students to make there own way to the rendezvous by car, They should be suitably equipped with warm clothing, boots and waterproofs.

    What can I do on completion of my course?

    The course would support careers in the tourism sector.

    Is there more information available online?

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    "The module is a chance to explore Shetland’s fabulous history, out in the glorious Shetland landscape."

    Simon Clarke, Course Leader

    Apply for Shetland’s Archaeological Monuments and Landscapes College Certificate

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    We are delighted that you are thinking about studying at UHI Shetland. UHI Shetland operates a fair and open admissions system committed to equality of opportunity and non-discrimination. We consider all applications on merit and on the basis of ability to achieve, without discrimination on grounds of age, disability, gender identity, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity status, race, religion and/or belief, sex, sexual orientation or socio-economic background. We welcome applications from all prospective students and aim to provide appropriate and efficient services to students with disabilities.