Archeology.

Degree Overview

Archeology (CIP 45.0301) is a social science and humanities field dedicated to studying past human societies through the systematic recovery, analysis, and interpretation of material remains. Archaeologists reconstruct how people lived, worked, governed, believed, and adapted to their environments by examining artifacts, architecture, landscapes, and biological evidence left behind over thousands of years. This degree connects science, history, and culture to uncover humanity’s shared story.

For a degree search site, Archeology represents discovery, analytical rigor, and long-term perspective. While often associated with ancient ruins and field excavations, modern archaeology is a highly technical and interdisciplinary profession that uses advanced scientific methods, digital tools, and cultural analysis. This degree appeals to students who want a hands-on, research-driven career focused on understanding human history and preserving cultural heritage rather than studying the past only through written records.

What Is an Archeology Degree?

An Archeology degree is an academic program that trains students to study human history through physical evidence. Unlike history, which relies primarily on texts, archaeology examines objects, structures, and environmental data to understand societies that may have left little or no written record.

This degree typically focuses on:

• Archaeological theory and interpretation
• Field and laboratory methods
• Cultural heritage and preservation
• Scientific analysis of material remains
• Ethical and legal responsibilities in archaeology

Colleges and universities offer this degree to:

• Train professional archaeologists and researchers
• Prepare students for cultural resource management (CRM)
• Support museum, heritage, and preservation careers
• Provide a foundation for graduate study in archaeology or anthropology

Archeology is both a scientific and interpretive discipline, requiring precision, curiosity, and cultural sensitivity.

What Will You Learn?

Students learn how archaeologists locate sites, conduct excavations, analyze artifacts, and interpret findings within cultural and environmental contexts. You’ll study how humans evolved, formed communities, developed technologies, and interacted with their environments across time.

The curriculum emphasizes methodological rigor. Students learn how evidence is collected systematically, documented carefully, and interpreted responsibly to avoid misrepresenting the past.

Core Skills You’ll Build

Graduates typically develop skills such as:

• Archaeological field methods—surveying, excavation, and site recording
• Artifact analysis—studying tools, ceramics, and structures
• Research design and documentation—systematic data collection
• Scientific reasoning—dating, classification, and analysis
• Cultural interpretation—understanding past societies
• Technical writing and reporting—clear research communication
• GIS and mapping skills—spatial analysis of sites
• Ethical and legal awareness—heritage protection and compliance

These skills are applicable in research, heritage management, and analytical careers.

Topics You May Explore

Coursework in an archaeology program commonly includes:

• Introduction to Archaeology: methods and theory
• Archaeological Field School: hands-on excavation training
• World Prehistory: early human societies
• Historical Archaeology: post-written-record societies
• Artifact and Material Culture Analysis: tools and technology
• Geoarchaeology and Environmental Contexts: landscapes and climate
• Dating Methods and Chronology: relative and absolute dating
• Cultural Resource Management (CRM): compliance and preservation
• Ethics and Heritage Law: responsible archaeological practice

Many programs require a field school as a core component.

What Jobs Can You Get With This Degree?

An Archeology degree prepares students for specialized research roles and applied heritage careers. Most professional archaeologist positions require graduate education, but bachelor’s-level roles are available in applied settings.

Common career paths include:

• Field Archaeologist: excavation and survey work
• Cultural Resource Management (CRM) Technician: compliance projects
• Museum or Collections Assistant: artifact curation
• Heritage or Preservation Specialist: site protection roles
• GIS or Mapping Technician: spatial analysis support
• Research Assistant: academic or contract research
• Graduate School Path: MA or PhD in archaeology or anthropology

Advanced research, teaching, and leadership roles typically require graduate degrees.

Where Can You Work?

Graduates work in organizations focused on research, preservation, and heritage management:

• Cultural resource management firms
• Government agencies and land management offices
• Museums and cultural institutions
• Universities and research centers
• Historic preservation organizations
• Environmental and infrastructure consulting firms
• International archaeological projects

Many archaeologists work on a project-based or seasonal schedule.

How Much Can You Earn?

Earnings vary by education level, specialization, and sector.

Typical ranges include:

• Entry-level CRM or field technician roles: often $35,000–$50,000
• Experienced field archaeologists or specialists: commonly $50,000–$70,000
• Senior archaeologists, managers, or academics: can reach $70,000–$100,000+

Graduate degrees and specialized skills increase earning potential.

Is This Degree Hard?

Archeology is considered academically and physically demanding. Students must balance theoretical coursework with hands-on fieldwork that can involve outdoor labor, travel, and detailed documentation. Strong writing, attention to detail, and patience are essential.

The challenge lies in combining scientific precision with interpretive reasoning.

Who Should Consider This Degree?

This degree may be a strong fit if you:

• Are fascinated by ancient and historical societies
• Enjoy hands-on, outdoor, and research-based work
• Like combining science, history, and culture
• Are detail-oriented and patient
• Are considering graduate study or heritage careers

How to Prepare in High School

To prepare for an archaeology program:

• Take history, geography, biology, and social science courses
• Develop strong writing and research skills
• Learn basic map reading and spatial reasoning
• Study world history and ancient civilizations
• Participate in museums, historical societies, or field experiences if available

Archeology (CIP 45.0301) is a compelling degree for students who want to uncover humanity’s past through evidence, analysis, and discovery. It builds rigorous research skills, cultural awareness, and technical expertise while contributing to the preservation of global heritage. For those drawn to exploration, history, and scientific inquiry, this degree offers a unique and intellectually rewarding pathway into understanding who we are and where we came from.