Careers in Archaeology

Careers in Archaeology

Practical and theoretical training for your career in ArchaeologyMany of our students wish to work as archaeologists, and our curriculum is designed to equip them with the practical and research skills that they need.

An Archaeology degree can also be the gateway to many other professions, and the training in analytical and communication skills acquired by our graduates make them employable in a wide variety of fields including industry, commerce and research. The broad-based nature of the discipline enables graduates to compete strongly in the employment market place.

Today archaeologists in the UK work in an increasingly wide range of professions. 

A significant percentage of graduates are employed in private or university-based archaeological units and consultancies. These professionals are responsible for mitigating the impact to archaeological sites in relation to different forms of development. Typically, such posts involve a good deal of fieldwork and the production of high quality scientific reports.

Others graduates go on to win research, teaching and curatorial posts in universities, museums and private institutions and work in a range of areas from interpreting ancient environments to communicating archaeology to the public.

In addition to more traditional occupations, a growing number of archaeologists are now employed by a range of governmental and non-governmental heritage organizations. Careers in this area are primarily involved in making decisions about the management and conservation of archaeological resources at local, national and international levels.

Archaeologists and individuals with archaeological training also work in a growing number of non-traditional careers where archaeological knowledge is central. These positions range widely, from jobs with engineering firms, where knowledge of archaeological principles can be crucial to project planning, to careers which engage the public's appreciation of the past.