Discovering and Studying Archaeology

Archaeology is the scientific study and interpretation of past peoples and activities by analyzing the material remains that people left behind. Archaeologists, in order to form a more coherent picture of the past and provide interpretations, look at a wide range of artefacts from large buildings and colourfully painted graves down to small clay pots, paintings, stone arrowheads, bone fragments and even pollen and seeds. Archaeology, then, is one of the most varied careers as it combines physical activity out in the field with intellectual study and scientific analysis in the laboratory.

The most common way to find artefacts made and used by past people is by excavating. By their very nature, excavations destroy the site and the find spot of the artefacts, and it is therefore of greatest importance to record, draw and photograph all information accurately for future generations. Once excavations have been completed, all finds need to be washed, analysed, interpreted, preserved, possibly reconstructed and stored – often in a nearby museum. Archaeologists rarely work alone, often working with a team of specialists, such as geologists, botanists, osteologists, computer specialists, and conservators. Once the analysis has been completed, the findings are published in articles, books or magazines.

Why Study Archaeology?

In order to work in archaeology, you will normally need an undergraduate degree in the subject or a related discipline. While all degrees will provide you with a firm foundation in archaeology, each university has a slightly different period or regional focus, so check out the areas lecturers specialise in and choose a department that offers courses that hold the greatest interest for you. The work of archaeologists is very varied and, as a result, they are found in the private, public and academic sectors: you could work for a commercial archaeological unit that excavates sites and surveys buildings prior to development, or you might be working in a museum, designing exhibitions, talking to the public and looking after the collections. You might be employed by the council, providing guidance to developers about ancient remains, or you might work as a university lecturer and undertake your own private research projects. Depending on your interests, you might find yourself working anywhere; in Britain, or anywhere in the world, for example the Mediterranean, South America or Siberia. It’s a hugely rewarding career that combines painstaking discovery with stimulating interpretations about past people’s lives.

Even if you don’t see yourself pursuing archaeology as a long-term career goal, it is an excellent foundation for your future. It allows you to develop a range of transferable skills that provide you with a good tool kit for a wide variety of interesting careers. Studying archaeology gives you a broad view of people and societies, and a rigorous training in evaluating evidence and ideas. It encourages the development of creative and critical thinking, verbal and written communication, and a wealth of practical and managerial skills. As a subject it is challenging, intriguing, satisfying and hugely enjoyable.

Contributed by Dr Ina Berg, University of Manchester
References: C. Renfrew & P. Bahn 2000, Archaeology: Theories, Methods and Practice. London: Thames & Hudson Ltd.

For further information about archaeology and careers options, go to www.archaeology.about.com