Cultural Heritage Institute (Swindon) course modules

7C001 Dissertation
Led by Cassie Newland, this 60-credit module enables students to design and execute an original research project in archaeology or heritage. Outputs may include academic writing, professional reports, exhibitions, or media. Assessment is a 15,000-word dissertation or equivalent (100%). The module includes workshops, tutorials, and self-directed study, supporting career-focused or academic pathways.
7C002 Landscape Archaeology
Led by Annalisa Christie, this 30-credit module provides a professional grounding in landscape archaeology. Students explore historic landscapes through desk-based and field methods including GIS, lidar, aerial imagery, and geophysics. Assessment is a 6000-word professional practice report (100%), allowing learners to conduct landscape characterisation or analysis. Teaching includes workshops, field visits, and blended learning formats.
7C004 Excavation and Post-excavation
Led by Annalisa Christie, this 30-credit module focuses on excavation techniques and artefact analysis. Students learn to record contexts, interpret stratigraphy, and specialise in artefact classes. Assessment includes a 2000-word Written Scheme of Investigation (30%) and a 4000-word artefact or site summary report (70%). Learning is hands-on, with fieldwork, lab sessions, and blended delivery.
7C006 Understanding Buildings and Landscapes
Led by Cassie Newland, this 30-credit module provides a professional grounding in historic buildings and landscapes. Students explore architectural styles, materials, interiors, and exteriors, and learn recording techniques including photogrammetry and laser scanning. Assessment is a 6000-word professional practice report (70%). Teaching includes workshops, field trips, and blended learning, supporting career development in the built heritage sector.
7C007 Heritage Interpretation
Led by Cassie Newland, this 30-credit module explores how heritage is communicated and understood. Students analyse audience engagement, interpretive narratives, and media strategies. Assessment includes two professional practice reports: an audience analysis (1500–3000 words, 25%) and an interpretation or digital strategy plan (3000–4500 words, 75%). Teaching combines workshops, field trips, and practical exercises to develop sector-ready skills.
7C008 The Past in Principles and Practice
Led by Annalisa Christie, this 30-credit module focuses on conservation planning and heritage management. Students examine legal frameworks, threats to heritage, and concepts of significance and context. Assessment is a 6000-word professional practice report (100%). Learning includes case studies, field trips, and workshops, preparing students for roles in cultural heritage protection and sustainable development.
7C009 Practical Conservation, Retrofitting and Sustainability
Led by Cassie Newland, this 30-credit module provides hands-on training in conservation materials, building pathology, and sustainable retrofitting. Students engage with heritage craftspeople and diagnostic tools to assess and manage historic buildings. Assessment is a 6000-word professional practice report (100%). Teaching includes field visits and workshops, preparing learners for practical roles in conservation and sustainability.
7C010 Regeneration and Placemaking in the Historic Environment
Led by Cassie Newland, this 30-credit module explores heritage-led regeneration and placemaking in urban and rural contexts. Students examine funding, governance, design, and community engagement. Assessment is a 6000-word regeneration plan (100%). Learning includes field trips, case studies, and workshops, equipping students to influence policy and lead sustainable heritage development.
7C011 Specialist Project by Practice or Research
Led by Cassie Newland, this flexible 30-credit module allows students to undertake a self-directed research or practice-based project aligned with their career goals. Outputs may include reports, exhibitions, media, or academic writing. Assessment is a 6000–10,000 word (or equivalent) project (100%). The module supports independent study with workshops, tutorials, and peer feedback.