Archaeology and Materials

The Archaeology and Materials program at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology offers students a comprehensive interdisciplinary education that combines the study of human history through archaeological methods with an advanced understanding of materials science and engineering. This unique program is designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for analyzing ancient artifacts, understanding material composition, and applying scientific techniques to cultural heritage preservation. Students engage in rigorous coursework that covers topics such as archaeological theory and methodology, materials characterization, digital imaging and analysis, and conservation techniques. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience through laboratory work, field excavations, and research projects, fostering a deep understanding of material properties and their relevance to archaeological interpretation.

The program encourages students to explore the intersection of science and humanities, promoting innovative approaches to reconstructing past societies and their technologies. By integrating knowledge from diverse disciplines, students develop a versatile skill set that enables them to work in archaeological research, cultural heritage management, conservation laboratories, and materials development sectors. The faculty comprises leading experts in archaeology, materials science, and engineering, providing mentorship and fostering collaborative research opportunities. Students also benefit from access to state-of-the-art laboratories equipped with advanced analytical instruments, enabling detailed study of artifacts at the molecular and microstructural levels.

Graduates of the Archaeology and Materials program are well-equipped to pursue careers in archaeological research, museum curation, conservation, or further academic study. The program aims to produce professionals who not only understand the historical significance of cultural artifacts but also possess the technical expertise to analyze and preserve them for future generations. With a focus on innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration, the program prepares students to contribute significantly to the fields of archaeology, materials science, and cultural heritage conservation, ensuring their readiness to address contemporary challenges in understanding and protecting cultural materials worldwide.

No subject can be counted both as part of the 17-subject GIRs and as part of the 180 units required beyond the GIRs. Every subject in the student's departmental program will count toward one or the other, but not both.

Requirements

• Application fee / fee waiver
• Parent Information
• Essays
• Self-reported Coursework Form
• At MIT, we require letters of recommendation from two teachers (one math/science, one humanities), plus materials from your school counselor (typically including your transcript, a school profile, and a letter of recommendation). 
• TOEFL iBT 100
• Interview

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) offers a variety of financing options to support students enrolled in its Archaeology and Materials programs. Prospective and current students can access a comprehensive range of financial aid resources, including scholarships, fellowships, grants, and work-study opportunities. MIT's commitment to affordability is reflected in its need-blind admission policy for most domestic students, ensuring that financial circumstances do not hinder the admissions process. Financial aid for undergraduate students is typically need-based, with a substantial portion of students receiving aid that covers tuition, fees, and living expenses. Graduate students pursuing master's or doctoral degrees in archaeology and materials sciences may be eligible for research assistantships, teaching assistantships, or fellowships. These positions not only provide a stipend and tuition remission but also offer valuable academic and professional experience. The university's Office of Financial Aid provides detailed information and personalized advisement to help students understand their funding options, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and explore external scholarship opportunities. Additionally, MIT encourages students to seek external funding sources such as government grants, private foundations, and industry-sponsored fellowships relevant to archaeology and materials research. The institution's strong partnerships with industry and government agencies often facilitate internship and co-op programs that can supplement students' income while providing practical experience. Overall, MIT strives to make its Archaeology and Materials programs accessible through generous financial aid packages, innovative funding opportunities, and dedicated support services designed to help students achieve their academic and research goals without undue financial burden.

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) offers programs related to Archaeology and Materials that provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the material culture, ancient artifacts, and technological processes involved in the study of past civilizations. The Department of Architecture, the Division of History, Theory and Criticism, and other related departments collaborate to deliver interdisciplinary courses that explore archaeological methods, material analysis, and the cultural significance of artifacts. Students engaged in these programs typically gain hands-on experience through excavations, lab work, and field studies, employing state-of-the-art technologies such as imaging techniques, chemical analysis, and digital reconstruction. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and an integrated approach combining science and humanities, enabling graduates to pursue careers in archaeology, conservation, museum curation, and academic research. Facilities include specialized laboratories equipped with advanced tools for material characterization, dating techniques, and artifact preservation. The program also encourages collaboration with international institutions, fostering a global perspective on archaeological research. Graduates of the program are well-prepared to contribute to the understanding of ancient societies, develop innovative solutions for artifact preservation, and advance archaeological science through research and dissemination of knowledge. The program's faculty comprises leading experts in archaeological science, materials analysis, and cultural heritage studies, ensuring students receive mentorship from experienced professionals. Overall, MIT's Archaeology and Materials program integrates scientific investigation with historical inquiry, equipping students with the skills necessary to interpret the material remnants of the past and contribute meaningfully to the preservation of cultural heritage for future generations.