Studying archaeology abroad

What is archaeology?

Archaeology is the study of past human life through the materials, structures, and artefacts people left behind. It aims to understand how societies developed, how cultures interacted, and how humans adapted to their environments over thousands of years. This includes examining ancient settlements, tools, artworks, and burial sites, as well as interpreting historical records in the context of physical evidence.

As an archaeology student, you will investigate the lives of people from prehistory to more recent times. The subject draws on anthropology, history, geology, and even chemistry to build a picture of the past. Your studies might involve examining ancient pottery under a microscope, mapping historical sites, or carefully excavating remains in the field.

Why study archaeology abroad?

Learning archaeology in another country allows you to work directly with historical sites and artefacts you might never encounter at home. You could help uncover a Roman villa in Italy, explore Mayan ruins in Central America, or analyse ancient manuscripts in the Middle East.

Studying abroad also gives you insight into different archaeological methods and cultural perspectives. You will work alongside experts from various backgrounds, develop a global network of professional contacts, and gain first-hand experience of heritage preservation in diverse settings.

What you will study

An archaeology degree combines academic study with practical fieldwork. Common areas of focus include:

• Prehistoric Archaeology – exploring human life before written records.
• Classical Archaeology – studying ancient civilisations such as Greece and Rome.
• Archaeological Science – using techniques like carbon dating and DNA analysis.
• Field Methods – excavation, surveying, and recording archaeological sites.
• Material Culture Studies – analysing artefacts and their cultural significance.
• Heritage Management – conserving and protecting archaeological sites.
• Historical Archaeology – examining more recent societies through their remains.

Many programmes include extended field schools, museum internships, or collaborations with cultural heritage organisations.

Related subjects you might also like:

• Anthropology
• History
• Art History
• Geology
• Cultural Heritage Studies

Accreditation

At undergraduate level, you might graduate with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Archaeology, or in a related field such as Anthropology or Heritage Studies.

Postgraduate options include Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Science (MSc) degrees in Archaeology, Archaeological Science, or Cultural Heritage Management. Specialisations might focus on bioarchaeology, maritime archaeology, or specific geographic regions.

Some countries offer professional accreditation for archaeologists through recognised heritage and research organisations, which can be valuable for securing roles in excavation, conservation, or museum work.

Careers

A background in archaeology can lead to a wide range of careers in heritage, research, and education. Many graduates become field archaeologists, working on excavations and surveys for universities, museums, or cultural heritage agencies.

Others work in conservation, preserving historical sites and artefacts for future generations. Opportunities also exist in museum curation, archival research, and heritage tourism.

Skills gained from archaeology, such as analytical thinking, attention to detail, and project management, are also valued in sectors like education, publishing, and even forensic science. For those who pursue further study, academic and research careers are available at universities and specialised institutes around the world.