Field Anthropology: Uncovering the Archaeology of Irelands Monastic Midlands
Your Archaeology Field School this Summer
We are excited to continue our two-field anthropology course, based from Birr, in County Offaly. This program gives students a hands-on orientation of archaeological techniques and field anthropology, including archaeological survey (total station and/or GPS survey, graveyard recording and architectural survey) photogrammetry and excavation skills.
The program takes a truly landscape-scale approach to archaeological research, beginning with a study of the geological and glacial processes that shaped the landscape and influenced future possibilities for human settlement.
It will then apply a range of archaeological survey techniques to interpret several sites, with a focus on medieval sites in (and around) the town of Birr, where students will learn to record some of the town’s most important earthworks, structures and architectural fragments.
The course is suited to students seeking an introduction to medieval or ecclesiastical archaeology or those hoping to pursue a career in Cultural Resource Management (CRM), teaching as it does several core CRM survey and analytical skills.
The field school is based in the heritage town of Birr, a handsome and charming town, which was the location at which St Brendan founded his c. sixth century monastery. Our campus in Birr serves as a base for all our course teaching and lab-work, but also acts as a launching pad to investigate several regional monastic and later medieval sites.
Staying with local families in homestay accommodation, this program also offers a deeply enriching cultural immersion, guaranteeing students a truly memorable experience.
Field Anthropology Course Details
Course Dates: June 8th – 21st, 2025
Tuition: €2,250
Accreditation: 7.5 ECTS (3 or 4 US Credit Hours)
Location: Birr, Co. Offaly, Ireland
Instructors: Dr Denis Shine, Dr Stephen Mandal and Associated IAFS Staff.
Includes: All meals, accommodation, tuition, instruction, equipment and field trips
Application/Payment Deadline: *April 25th, 2025
*A late payment fee of €200 will apply after this date.
Apply Now!
Registration does not guarantee acceptance to the program, which is contingent on a reference check.
Once we have contacted your referee, and are happy with their reference, we will contact you with an official acceptance and payment link for a minimum payment of a €500 deposit.
Only payment of this deposit secures your place on the course, full payment is due by the payment deadline on April 25th.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us and please also consult our Terms and Conditions.
