Career Pathways for Archaeologists
Embarking on a career in archaeology can be exciting and rewarding. While the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts job numbers will hold steady, many are drawn to the field of archaeology due the variety in job opportunities and the chance to explore exotic regions of the world. Careers in archaeology include the chance to work for colleges, universities, the government, museums and private companies.
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Academic Jobs in Archaeology
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Academic work in archaeology, for a college or university, usually consists of becoming a lecturer or instructor and publishing scholarly works on the subject of archaeology and its sub specialties. In order to qualify for a position like this, it is necessary to have a minimum of a Master's degree in archaeology, although a Ph.D. is preferred. Years spent in the field are crucial for giving instruction on field work and research.
Government Jobs in Archaeology
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Working for the government, whether state or federal, may include educating the public about historic preservation sites as well as working side by side with other government agencies to protect lands or preservation sites. Many archaeologists work for such agencies as the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management and the Corps of Engineers. For these positions, a Master's degree in archaeology is required.
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Museum Jobs in Archaeology
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Archaeologists employed by a museum maintain displays, work to educate the public regarding historic artifacts, and conduct and publish research. Some museums may also be connected to a university and hold lectures there as well. Archaeologists holding these positions have advanced degrees in archaeology and some might have Master's degrees in library science or archive preservation. Appointments as museum curator generally last about four years.
Private Sector Jobs in Archaeology
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For archaeologists employed in the private sector, work may consist of scientific research, working with construction companies on excavation digs, or consulting on field excavations. Private archaeologists will work for firms conducting cultural resource management investigations, which require third-party investigations by law. Educational requirements for these sorts of job vary but usually the minimum is a Bachelor's degree with some field work experience gained from a field school.
Considerations for Education and Training
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Educational requirements for careers in archaeology vary widely due to the different specialties and sub specialties in the field. Entry-level positions can be gained with an undergraduate degree and field work training at an archaeological field school (usually held in the summer). Advanced positions require a minimum of a Master's degree with time spent conducting research in the chosen specialty. Most archaeology opportunities will be found with a doctoral degree and some research and/or field work experience.
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