The aim of this certificate is to introduce the prehistoric archaeology of Ireland and Europe, spanning 40,000 years. The course will explore the major archaeological periods in European prehistory—Palaeolithic, Mesolithic, Neolithic, Bronze Age and Iron Age—in terms of settlement, economy, burial and ritual. Archaeological sites, monuments and artefacts will be examined together with the latest insights provided by scientific techniques, such as ancient DNA. Ranging from the Palaeolithic hunter-gatherers who ventured into deep caves to create spectacular paintings, to Neolithic farmers who constructed megalithic houses of the dead, through to the so-called Celtic elites of mainland Europe.

Programme Structure
This 15-credit will comprise three modules, each worth 5 credits, taught completely online over the course of one academic year (Sept-May). The modules include:

1. On the Move: Hunter-Gatherer Societies (Palaeolithic and Mesolithic) – Marion Dowd.

2. Megalithic Monuments of Ireland, Europe and Beyond (Neolithic and Early Bronze Age) – Sam Moore.

3. Hoards and Hillforts: Later Prehistoric Settlement and Society (Bronze Age and Iron Age) – Chris Read.

Other archaeology certificate courses you may be interested in: https://www.atu.ie/flexible-learning-courses-in-archaeology

This certificate course will be delivered by Dr Marion Dowd, Mr Sam Moore and Mr Chris Read.