Archaeology (Bachelor of Arts)

Archaeologists ask questions such as: Why did the Mayan civilization collapse? Who built the Great Sphinx of Giza? What do Pompeii’s ruins tell us about life in 79 AD?

Archaeologists examine material remains to understand past human life and cultural activities. This program will give you a solid understanding of how to research, excavate and scientifically analyze cultural remains gleaned from sites such as buried and/or abandoned human settlements. During the course of your studies, you'll develop research capabilities, written and verbal communication skills, scientific knowledge, and technical expertise.

Our BA Archaeology emphasizes a social sciences approach and includes instruction in archaeological field methods, including survey techniques, excavation strategies, site recording, mapping, and documentation, as well as cultural resource management.

Experiential learning through various fieldwork opportunities and research labs is an essential component of the BA in Archaeology. You'll explore the archaeology of diverse regions including North America, Mesoamerica, Africa, and the Arctic, and you'll learn how to conduct archaeological research, including designing research questions, formulating hypotheses, and gathering and analyzing data from archaeological sites and artifacts. Our students have also participated in excavations in partnership with First Nations. 

Career opportunities

As an Archaeology graduate, you'll have the practical skills needed to pursue careers in archaeological research, cultural heritage and cultural resource management, and managing museum collections. Graduates work for consulting firms, government agencies, or non-profit organizations involved conducting archaeological surveys, assessments, and compliance reviews for development projects. A degree in Archaeology can also be used as a stepping-stone to graduate studies or another professional degree such as law, medicine, veterinary medicine, or education.

Program highlights

• Co-operative work placement - Gain valuable full-time paid work experience that alternates with your academic studies.
• Honours Degree - In-depth study of a specific topic completed under the supervision of a faculty member.
• Field school - Discipline-specific classes taken in real-world settings, and involving hands-on course work.

Courses in this program

Examples include African Stone Age, Archaeology and the media, and Archaeological Techniques Field Course. 

Internationalize your degree

Take your learning off campus by exploring one of our 200+ international opportunities. For example, in Archaeology you can participate in the Maya Archeology and Ecology Group Field Program in Mexico. We encourage you to check out UCalgary’s selection of programs.  

Enhance your experience

Find your People! Chacmool, the University of Calgary's Archaeology Association offers events for socialization as well as workshops and volunteer opportunities.

Detailed course information

• First year Degree Guide - Arts
• Program description and courses (Course Calendar)