Program

The Archaeology program prepares you for positions as either a field or laboratory archaeological technician in both the public and private sector of archaeology. It also provides background for growth and advancement within the profession.

Archaeologists reconstruct the human past through tangible evidence, written documentation and even oral histories when investigating the recent past. Tangible evidence includes artifacts (various kinds of stone tools, ceramics, bone, figurines, pipes, etc.), features (fire pits, post molds, trash pits and other soil stains as well as structures such as earthworks, mounds, temples, pyramids and building foundations) and ecofacts (nuts, seeds, pollen, charcoal and other natural objects that help archaeologists recreate past environments.) Written documentation includes maps, geological reports, archival documents and information recorded by previous archaeologists. The ability to analyze and interpret these sources of information or cultural resources is a central component in archaeology.

We educate and train you through immersion in archaeology and related fields. Once you complete the introductory courses (Cultural Resource Laws Methods and Theory and Anthropology), you will begin to take classes with hands-on components. Many of these classes are unique to undergraduate education. They include:

•    Two comprehensive laboratory analysis classes covering material analysis and environmental analysis and foodways;
•    Geoarchaeology class focusing on soil genesis, stratigraphy, geomorphology and how these geologic processes affect archaeology sites;
•    Two mapping classes will train you to navigate in the field with a compass and topographical map using transit and total stations;
•    Classes in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Global Positioning Systems (GPS) introduce you to the cutting edge world of cartography;
•    Lab Management and Curation provides introductory skills on conservation, facilities management and long-term preservation of cultural materials;
•    Historic Archaeology introduces the methods and practices toward understanding and documenting Historic and Industrial Cultural Resources.

One of the highlights of the Archaeology program curriculum is our Archaeological Field Methods class. We will spend time covering all of the phases of archaeological fieldwork, not just excavation. This course delivers an extended, focused experience based on curriculum that prepares students for a career in applied archaeology. Multiple sites and site types are explored. Service learning is achieved via public archaeology events arranged throughout a collaborative network of local, state and federal agencies. Career opportunities and networks with prospective employers are also explored.

Program Outcomes

The following outcomes are skills, behaviors, and attitudes cultivated in students seeking the Associate of Applied Science in Archaeology:

• Observe professional behavior and ethics including cultural sensitivity, preservation of regulations, and ability to work well with others;
• Interpret and document the environment focusing on geomorphology, stratigraphy, and site formation processes;
• Assist in reviewing and compiling background research;
• Employ survey and excavation methods and techniques including reading and creating maps, using a transit and compass, site identification, and documenting research results;
• Identify and collect archaeological data;
• Process and catalog recovered materials;
• Perform laboratory techniques such as cleaning artifacts and preparing specimens for analysis;
• Build and manipulate computer databases; and,
• Assist in final report preparation, including state inventory form compilation and creating maps and figures.

Curriculum

Career Opportunities

Many Cultural Resource Management (CRM) firms and government agencies who have employed our graduates continue to hire our students every year. Some even hire our top graduates before any other candidate. This is attributed to our specialized and unique curriculum.

Our students are employed with archaeological CRM firms nationwide. The average pay has been $12.50 - $17.00 an hour. Furthermore, these positions have been primarily field oriented, which means they travel extensively. When the field crews are on the road, all living expenses (food, lodging and travel) are paid by day ranging from $150 - $250 per week. Combined this creates a very attractive entry-level salary of $26,000 - $35,000 per year.

Our graduates are well prepared to complete a Baccalaureate in Anthropology or other related disciplines at major universities. A Bachelor’s Degree increases the potential for full-time, permanent employment and qualifies you for the position of field supervisor. Our students have also been successful in achieving Graduate Degrees. Faculty is actively involved in job placement.