You are here:
Archaeology Outcomes & Career Options
Archaeologists examine, recover, and preserve evidence and artifacts from past human cultures. They connect artifacts with information about historic environments to learn about the experiences, customs, and living habits of people in earlier civilizations. Archaeologists also manage and protect archaeological sites. Some work in national parks or historical sites, where they protect known historical or archaeological sites and educate the public. Others assess building sites to ensure that construction plans comply with federal regulations regarding preservation of these sites. Archaeologists often specialize in a particular geographic area, time period, or subject matter, such as animal remains or underwater sites. Many people with a Ph.D. in archaeology become professors or museum curators.
Educational Qualifications
Those with a bachelor’s degree in archaeology and work experience in an internship or field school can work as a field archaeologist or do basic laboratory work. To advance beyond entry-level positions, a master’s degree is usually desired. Most master’s degree programs are 2 years in duration and include field research. Jobs that require leadership roles and more technical experience may require a Ph.D.
Job Outlook
Employment of anthropologists and archeologists is projected to grow 4 percent from 2014 to 2024, slower than the average for all occupations. Outside of research, employment of archaeologists will be largely influenced by the level of construction activity. As construction projects increase, more archaeologists will be needed to ensure that builders comply with federal regulations regarding the preservation of archaeological and historical artifacts.
Entering Salary
Sources:
Academic program information adapted from:
La Sierra University. (2016-2017). Undergraduate Academic Bulletin. Retrieved from http://www.lasierra.edu/bulletin
Career information adapted from:
California Career Resource Network. (2014). California CareerZone. Retrieved from https://www.cacareerzone.org
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2016-17 Edition, Anthropologists and Archeologists, on the Internet at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/anthropologists-and-archeologists.htm (visited October 13, 2016).