What is an Archaeologist?

When people hear the word archaeologist they may envision the dusty skeletal remains of a dinosaur. Although archaeologists do take part in the excavation of age old fossils, their jobs entail much more.

Function

The primary function of an archaeologist is to reconstruct a picture of a culture and learn as much about that culture as possible. This is done in many ways, such as gathering data and examining remains. Archaeologists take soil samples to study soil for environmental assessments. They observe, study and determine locations for archaeological digs. They supervise and conduct such excavations.

Features

Archaeology helps us learn about the past and, in so doing, we can apply that knowledge to the present and future. Archaeology teaches us about the evolution of human beings, animals, plants, various cultures and ancient civilizations. People may believe that the life of an archaeologist is glamorous. While it can be very interesting and even fascinating to those with an interest in the field, it is hardly glamorous. The archaeologist can spend many hours outdoors in various climates doing physical work. Archaeologists doing field work have to do without the normal comforts and may have to live in harsh conditions. It is not a field for those whose constitution may be fragile. The work can be painstaking and tedious, but it can also be very rewarding.

Significance

When an archaeological excavation yields artifacts, the artifacts are washed, labeled, collected, cataloged and analyzed by the archaeologist. An archaeologist analyzes physical remains uncovered during the excavation. He also uses various methods of testing such as carbon dating to determine the age of recovered artifacts. He gathers information and records his findings. The archaeologist is also responsible for writing reports that details his findings and publishing the results of his research.

Considerations

Archaeologists use several skills such as math, writing, history, scientific method and computer skills. For those who desire to pursue a career as an archaeologist, it would be wise to have a background in anthropology. It is important to get as much experience in the social sciences as possible. Educational requirements and training may differ according to the various fields of archaeology such as research, teaching or fieldwork, but most require a minimum requirement of a B.A. or B.S. degree with a major in anthropology or archaeology. Some careers in archaeology require a Masters degree or Ph.D.

Geography

Fieldwork is an important part of archaeology. Most career positions within the field of archaeology require previous field experience. The best way to obtain field experience is to volunteer. Students can volunteer for local excavations. Archaeological expeditions are often listed on the Internet by organizations funding such expeditions. Some may join the dig as volunteers for free or for a fee. Fees vary depending on location, organization and other factors.

Potential

There are several opportunities available for archaeologists. Besides being involved in the obvious areas of research and fieldwork, archaeologists can also teach or act as consultants to various firms, industries and government agencies. Archaeology is a field in which the work is truly a learning process. There is always something new that can be learned from studying the old. If you have a keen interest in ancient history and don't mind getting your hands dirty, then archaeology just might be the career for you. Modern archaeology has much to offer too, as archaeologists are often called in to survey areas being considered for building and expansion.