What can you do with a degree in archaeology?

Archaeology is the study of human history and culture by examining the material remains of past societies. A degree in archaeology can open up a range of career opportunities, such as teaching, museum curation, fieldwork, cultural resources management, historic preservation, archaeological illustration, data analysis, legal work and academic research.

Each of these career paths requires its own set of skills and knowledge. This article aims to provide an overview of the potential career paths available to those with a degree in archaeology. It will discuss the skills required and the tasks that each line of work entails.

With this knowledge, individuals can make an informed decision when considering a career in archaeology.

Teaching Archaeology

The teaching of archaeology as a discipline requires a comprehensive understanding of the past and its implications in the present. An archaeology degree allows individuals to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to understand the past, while also being able to convey this information to others.

Through archaeological outreach and public engagement, individuals with a degree in archaeology can share their knowledge with the public and help increase awareness of archaeological sites and artifacts. They can also use their degree to teach archaeology in a classroom setting, as well as in the field, which provides a unique and hands-on experience for students.

By teaching archaeology, individuals with a degree in this field can inspire the next generation to take an interest in the past and use it to create a better future.

Museum Curator

Curatorship of a museum offers a unique opportunity to apply archaeological knowledge to the preservation and interpretation of material culture. An archaeologist working as a curator is responsible for ensuring the authenticity of artifacts, researching and cataloguing items, and displaying them in a manner that will engage and inform visitors.

Additionally, curators may be responsible for site surveying, exhibition planning, and providing education to the public on the importance of preserving and honouring the archaeological history of a region or country.

Working as a museum curator is a great way to utilise the knowledge and skills gained from a degree in archaeology. The responsibility of a curator is to provide a public service that honours and preserves the archaeological heritage of a region.

In order to do this, curators must be knowledgeable about artifact authentication, site surveying, and exhibition planning. By utilising these skills, a curator is able to provide visitors with an engaging and informative experience.

Archaeological Fieldwork

Archaeological fieldwork offers an exciting opportunity to explore and discover the archaeological remains of past cultures. It is an interdisciplinary field of study, combining research from the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities. Through fieldwork, archaeologists are able to piece together a narrative of the past, reconstructing a culture’s values, beliefs, and lifestyle.

Fieldwork is essential to the field of archaeology. Without it, much of the world’s cultural heritage would be lost. Archaeologists are tasked with the responsibility of excavating and documenting sites, as well as researching artefacts and analyzing data. They must also adhere to ethical standards when conducting fieldwork, such as avoiding destruction of the environment and respecting the cultural values of the local communities.

Advantages	Disadvantages
Allows for exploration of archaeological remains	Can be physically demanding
Interdisciplinary research combining sciences and humanities	Possibility of damaging the environment
Reconstructs culture’s values, beliefs, and lifestyle	Must adhere to ethical standards
Preserves cultural heritage	Can be dangerous in some areas

Cultural Resources Management

Cultural Resources Management is a field of study dedicated to the protection, preservation, and management of cultural heritage. It is a multi-faceted discipline that combines archaeological research, community outreach, GIS mapping, and public policy.

The aim of Cultural Resources Management is to ensure that cultural sites and artifacts are protected for future generations.

Cultural Resources Managers work in both the public and private sector, and their roles vary depending on the organization they work for.

In the public sector, Cultural Resources Managers work to protect archaeological sites from development, advise on land use decisions, and ensure the preservation of cultural resources.

In the private sector, Cultural Resources Managers work to ensure that archaeological sites are managed in a sustainable manner, and that cultural resources are not damaged or destroyed. They also play an important role in educating the public about the importance of preserving cultural resources.

Historic Preservation

Historic Preservation is a field of study focused on protecting, conserving, and maintaining historic sites and artifacts, and incorporating them into contemporary society. This field of study can be used in a variety of ways, such as:

1. Urban exploration to explore and document the history of a city or town.

2. Identifying Indigenous heritage sites and evaluating their significance.

3. Researching and understanding the history of a particular area or region.

4. Assisting in the development of policies and regulations to protect historic sites and artifacts.

Historic Preservation is an important field of study that can help to preserve the past for future generations, as well as ensure that historic sites and artifacts are incorporated into contemporary society in meaningful ways. It is a field that requires a great deal of knowledge and dedication to ensure that the past is respected and honoured.

Conservation

Conservation is a field of study which aims to protect and sustain the environment, with particular emphasis on the preservation of natural resources and habitats. Archaeologists with a degree in this field can specialize in a range of areas, such as archaeological ethics, public outreach, and the application of conservation strategies. Those who pursue this field may also take part in the development of conservation plans, the implementation of environmental laws, and the assessment of cultural resources.

Archaeologists with a degree in conservation can be involved in a number of activities, such as conducting environmental impact studies, monitoring endangered species, and creating educational materials about the preservation of archaeological sites. They may also be involved in preparing reports on archaeological surveys and excavations, as well as planning and developing public interpretation programs. Additionally, they can be employed by museums and other organizations to conduct research on the conservation of cultural heritage.

Archaeologists with a degree in Conservation
Specialize in a range of areas
Develop conservation plans
Implement environmental laws
Assess cultural resources
Conduct environmental impact studies
Monitor endangered species
Create educational materials
Prepare reports on surveys and excavations
Plan and develop public interpretation programs
Conduct research on the conservation of cultural heritage

Archaeological Illustration

Archaeological Illustration is the art of creating visual representations of archaeological sites and objects for research and educational purposes. It is a field of study that combines art and archaeology, and is used to help communicate archaeological information to the public.

Archaeological Illustration is used for a variety of purposes, including public outreach, laboratory work, and educational materials. It is a valuable tool for archaeologists, as it allows them to accurately and effectively communicate their research to a wide audience. Illustrations can be used to create maps, diagrams, and other visual aids that help to explain archaeological concepts and findings.

Illustrations can also be used to create educational materials, such as posters, brochures, and books. By creating visual representations of archaeological sites and objects, archaeologists can help to bring their research to life and make it more accessible to the public.

Archaeological Data Analysis

Data analysis is an essential part of archaeological practice, allowing for the organisation and interpretation of evidence in order to gain insights into past societies and cultures.

Digital archiving is a key part of this process, enabling archaeologists to store and manage large amounts of data efficiently and securely.

This data can then be used to inform heritage tourism, which is becoming increasingly popular in many countries.

By analysing archaeological data, archaeologists can better understand the history of a particular place, and in turn, identify potential sites of interest for tourists.

Furthermore, data analysis can be used to identify patterns in archaeological finds, which can provide further insight into past cultures and even help to reconstruct certain aspects of the past.

By having a degree in archaeology, one can gain the skills necessary to become an expert in archaeological data analysis and use it to further our understanding of the past.

Archaeological Law

The application of legal principles to the protection of archaeological sites and artifacts is an important part of preserving our cultural heritage.

Archaeological law is a field of study that focuses on the legal aspects of archaeology, such as the protection of archaeological sites, the management of archaeological resources, and the legal rights of archaeologists.

It also includes the ethical considerations of archaeological research, public outreach, and the legal rights of indigenous peoples.

Archaeological law is a complex field that requires a deep understanding of the legal system and the principles of legal ethics.

It is important for archaeologists to be aware of the legal implications of their work and to ensure that they are following the laws and regulations that govern archaeological research.

Archaeological law is an important part of the archaeological profession and is essential for the protection of archaeological sites and artifacts.

It is important for archaeologists to be aware of the legal implications of their work and to ensure that they are following the laws and regulations that govern archaeological research.

Archaeologists must also be aware of the ethical considerations of their work, such as public outreach and the legal rights of indigenous peoples.

By understanding the legal aspects of archaeology, archaeologists can ensure that their work is conducted in a responsible and ethical manner.

Academic Research

Academic research in archaeology is an essential component of the discipline, providing evidence-based insights into our shared past and helping to inform our understanding of the present. Archaeological research is multifaceted, ranging from fieldwork to laboratory analysis to public outreach.

A degree in archaeology prepares individuals for a wide variety of research activities, including:

1. Fieldwork – uncovering and studying archaeological sites
2. Laboratory analysis – using analytical tools to examine artifacts and other archaeological materials
3. Data analysis – using statistical and computational methods to interpret archaeological findings
4. Public outreach – engaging with local communities and other stakeholders to share archaeological knowledge.

Archaeological research is a critical component of the discipline and a degree in archaeology provides individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to conduct meaningful research. It is important to remember that archaeological research involves a great deal of ethical considerations, and requires public outreach in order to share archaeological knowledge with a wider audience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much money can I make with a degree in archaeology?

With a degree in archaeology, there are a variety of career paths and archaeological internships available.

It is important to note that the amount of money one can make varies depending on the career and experience.

Generally, those with a degree in archaeology may expect to earn a mid-level salary, although this can increase with increased experience and specialisation.

Depending on the field of archaeology, salaries may range from entry-level to mid-level or even higher.

What skills do I need to become an archaeologist?

Archaeology is a field of study that involves exploring ancient artifacts in order to gain insight into the history and cultures of past civilizations.

To become an archaeologist, one must possess a range of skills, such as knowledge of research methods, the ability to work in a variety of environments, and a passion for uncovering the past.

Additionally, a degree in archaeology is beneficial for those seeking a career in the field, as it provides specialized training in archaeological methods, techniques, and research.

Further, a degree can open up a variety of career paths in the field, including museum curation, field archaeology, and academic research.

What other jobs are related to archaeology?

Archaeology is an interdisciplinary field that involves the study of the past through material remains.

In addition to archaeological fieldwork techniques, those in the field also gain experience in cultural preservation.

Related jobs to archaeology include: museum curatorial positions, artifact conservation, cultural resource management, historical research, and educational outreach.

It is important to note that many related jobs require additional qualifications such as a master’s degree.

Is it possible to do archaeology as a hobby?

Archaeology is an activity that can be enjoyed as a hobby as well as a profession. As a hobby, it is possible to participate in activities such as Archaeology Tours and Citizen Science.

Archaeology Tours can be organized to explore sites of historical and archaeological significance. Citizen Science allows individuals to contribute to archaeological research and data gathering. It is an excellent way to gain insight into the field without the need for a degree.

Furthermore, the tools and resources available to amateur archaeologists are growing rapidly, offering exciting opportunities to explore and learn in new ways.

Is there a demand for archaeologists?

Archaeology is an ever-growing field, with demand for archaeologists increasing year-on-year.

Archaeologists are responsible for excavations, fieldwork, and the conservation of cultural heritage.

Fieldwork techniques are developed over time and used to uncover, document, and analyse archaeological sites, while cultural heritage is preserved and protected.

There is a strong demand for archaeologists, with many opportunities available in the UK and abroad.

Conclusion

Archaeology is a diverse and rewarding field of study for those seeking to explore the past. A degree in archaeology provides a range of career options, from fieldwork and data analysis to museum curation and cultural resources management. Those with an academic background in archaeology can also pursue research and teaching opportunities. Additionally, archaeological illustration, historic preservation, and archaeological law are all possible career paths.

With the right training and dedication, those with a degree in archaeology can find a career that fits their passions and interests. By pursuing a degree in archaeology, individuals open up a wide range of possibilities for their future. Whether it is in the field or in the classroom, those with a degree in archaeology can explore the past and shape the future.

With the right tools, training, and dedication, those with a degree in archaeology can find the career that best fits their interests and passions.