Archaeology is a challenging combination of theory, detective work and practical skills. It could be described as the ultimate multi-discipline, especially when practised underwater. All the activities that interest you underwater are involved in archaeology - survey, photography, remote sensing, wreck diving, night diving, excavation, use of tools, helmet diving, salvage, etc. All are integral parts of this enormous subject. For non-divers there are a host of logistical and management tasks, surface orientated techniques and post fieldwork analysis.

Part I Course at Fort Bovisand

If you want to learn more about archaeology, practice the techniques involved - above or below the water, and perhaps become involved in a project here or abroad... The NAS Training Programme is the answer.

The Programme consists of a one day Introductory course & Parts I - IV, a series of progressively more advanced courses, all with a strong emphasis on practical work. Most of our courses run over weekends, but longer field schools are organised during the summer.

The NAS Training Programme

Introduction to Foreshore and Underwater Archaeology.

This one day course has an emphasis on shipwreck archaeology and includes practical sessions on underwater site surveying techniques, 'dry' sessions covering the principles of nautical archaeology, past and present projects and how you can contribute to our knowledge of the past. This course will appeal to students, sports divers, non-divers, in fact anyone who has an interest in the past. Divers need CMAS 1 * or equivalent.

BSAC and SAA Divers attending this course are entitled to apply for a 'Basic Archaeological Diver' skill development certificate. PADI divers can apply for a 'Basic Archaeology Certificate' on some of our courses.
The NAS Introductory course is a prerequisite for attending the NAS Part 1 course

NAS Part I Certificate in Foreshore and Underwater Archaeology

This is a 2 day course normally run over a weekend. The course builds on the skills and principles introduced during the 'Introductory' course. The practical skills are in a more challenging open water environment. The course includes the use of 3-D survey programmes, project planning, conservation of waterlogged finds and geophysical survey techniques. (Divers need CMAS 2 * or equivalent).

BSAC and SAA Divers can apply for an 'Archaeological Diver Certificate' from their respective organisations.

NAS Part II Certificate in Foreshore and Underwater Archaeology

Consists of attendance of the equivalent of 2 days of conferences, and the producton of a short survey report.

NAS Part III Advanced Certificate in Foreshore and Underwater Archaeology

This qualification is achieved by attending either weekend courses, field schools, or working on archaeological sites. The courses include: conservation, archaeological science, finds illustration, photography, use of Remotely Operated Vehicles, advanced diving equipment, area survey using geophysical techniques such as side scan sonar, underwater survey techniques, excavation strategies and methods and IT skills. The main objective of the Part III syllabus is to help develop a competent field worker who would be an asset to any project.

NAS Part IV Certificate in Foreshore and Underwater Archaeology

This is the final element of the NAS Programme, and provides a certification level for a fieldworker capable of supervising on site in conjunction with an archaeological director.

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