Archaeology

The Bachelor of Arts in Archaeology at the University of Calgary offers students a comprehensive and engaging exploration of human history through the study of ancient societies, archaeological methods, and material culture. This program is designed to equip students with a solid foundation in archaeological theory, excavation techniques, artifact analysis, and cultural heritage preservation. Throughout their studies, students will have the opportunity to learn about diverse archaeological sites around the world, gaining insights into the social, political, and economic aspects of past civilizations. The curriculum combines coursework in anthropology, history, and natural sciences, fostering an interdisciplinary approach to understanding human origins and cultural development. Students will engage in hands-on laboratory work, field excavations, and research projects, encouraging practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge. The program emphasizes critical thinking, data interpretation, and effective communication, preparing graduates for careers in archaeology, cultural resource management, museum curation, and academia. In addition, students can participate in various internships and field schools, often in collaboration with local and international archaeological organizations. The University of Calgary's commitment to experiential learning ensures that students graduate with both the academic expertise and practical skills necessary for success in archaeological and related fields. With a focus on ethical research and the preservation of cultural heritage, the program also aims to foster responsible stewardship of archaeological resources. Students pursuing this degree will benefit from the university's expert faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and vibrant academic community. The Bachelor of Arts in Archaeology at the University of Calgary is an excellent choice for individuals passionate about uncovering and understanding the mysteries of human history and making meaningful contributions to the preservation of our shared cultural heritage.

Program Overview:

The Bachelor of Arts in Archaeology at the University of Calgary offers students a comprehensive education in the study of human history through the material remains of past societies. This program provides a solid foundation in archaeological theories, methods, and practices, equipping students with the skills necessary to analyze ancient artifacts, sites, and cultural landscapes. Students will explore a wide range of topics, including prehistoric and historic archaeology, archaeological field methods, laboratory analyses, and cultural heritage management.

Throughout the program, students have opportunities to engage in hands-on learning through field schools, internships, and research projects. They will learn to develop research hypotheses, conduct excavations, document findings, and interpret archaeological data within cultural and historical contexts. Emphasis is also placed on understanding ethical considerations and sustainable practices in archaeology, ensuring students are prepared to contribute responsibly to the preservation of cultural heritage.

The curriculum is designed to foster interdisciplinary thinking, encouraging students to integrate knowledge from anthropology, history, geology, and conservation sciences. The program also emphasizes critical thinking, effective communication, and teamwork skills essential for careers in archaeology, cultural resource management, museums, academia, and government agencies.

Students can tailor their education with electives in areas such as ancient civilizations, classical archaeology, archaeological science, and digital technologies in archaeology. The program culminates in a capstone project or thesis, allowing students to demonstrate their mastery of archaeological research methods and contribute original insights to the field.

Graduates of the Archaeology program at the University of Calgary are well-prepared for further graduate study or direct entry into professional careers, with the knowledge and skills to analyze and protect cultural heritage worldwide. The program's strong connections with archaeological institutions and ongoing research initiatives provide students with valuable networking opportunities and real-world experience.

Overall, this program offers a rigorous academic environment that fosters curiosity about human history, cultural diversity, and the methods used to uncover and interpret our shared past. Enrolling in the Bachelor of Arts in Archaeology at the University of Calgary opens the door to a dynamic and rewarding career dedicated to investigating and preserving the rich tapestry of human history.

The Bachelor of Arts in Archaeology at the University of Calgary requires completion of a minimum of 120 units for graduation. Students must fulfill both core and elective course requirements to gain comprehensive knowledge in the field. The program begins with foundational courses in archaeology theory, methods, and field techniques, typically including introductory courses such as Archaeology 200-level classes that cover the history and principles of archaeology. Students are encouraged to take courses in related disciplines such as anthropology, history, and geography to develop a multidisciplinary perspective.

Upper-level courses delve into specialized areas such as archaeobotany, zooarchaeology, lithic analysis, and archaeometallurgy, allowing students to develop expertise in specific archaeological subfields. Fieldwork experience is a critical component of the program, with opportunities to participate in excavation projects, archaeological surveys, and laboratory analysis. Students are often required to complete a field school or equivalent practical training to gain hands-on experience.

Research projects and a senior thesis or capstone course are integral to the program, fostering skills in research design, data analysis, and academic writing. The program emphasizes ethical considerations in archaeology, including cultural heritage management, preservation, and working respectfully with indigenous and local communities. Language proficiency in relevant ancient or modern languages, such as Latin or indigenous languages, may be recommended or required depending on the student's focus.

Throughout the program, students are expected to participate in seminars, workshops, and guest lectures to stay engaged with current debates and developments within archaeology. To graduate, students must maintain a minimum GPA as specified by the university, complete all required courses with satisfactory grades, and fulfill any additional program-specific criteria such as internships or professional development activities. The Archaeology program prepares graduates for careers in cultural resource management, museum work, academic research, or further graduate study in archaeology or anthropology.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The University of Calgary offers a variety of financing options for students enrolled in the Archaeology undergraduate program to support their academic pursuits. Tuition fees for the Bachelor's degree in Archaeology vary depending on residency status, with domestic students typically paying lower rates compared to international students. Domestic students can expect to pay approximately CAD 7,200 to CAD 8,000 per year for undergraduate programs, while international students may pay between CAD 26,000 and CAD 30,000 annually. Additional fees such as student service fees, lab fees, and activity fees may apply and can add to the total cost of attendance.

Students are encouraged to explore numerous funding opportunities to help finance their studies. The University of Calgary provides merit-based scholarships for incoming and current students, which are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership, and other criteria. Examples include the President’s Entrance Scholarship and the University of Calgary Undergraduate Scholars Entrance Award. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are competitive, requiring application prior to admission or during the first year of study.

In addition to university-sponsored awards, students can seek external funding sources such as government grants, private scholarships, and bursaries. The Alberta government offers several student financial assistance programs, including Alberta Grants for post-secondary students, which can be accessed through the Alberta Student Aid office. Many organizations and foundations also offer scholarships for students pursuing archaeology, anthropology, or related fields, particularly those interested in heritage and cultural preservation.

Work-study programs available at the University of Calgary enable students to work part-time on campus while studying, thereby earning income to offset educational expenses. Co-op placements, although more common at the graduate level, may also be available for undergraduate archaeology students in partnership with local archaeological firms and heritage organizations, providing valuable professional experience and financial compensation.

Students are advised to apply early for financial aid and consult the university’s Financial Aid & Awards office for personalized guidance and up-to-date information. Budget planning should include tuition, fees, textbooks, supplies, housing, transportation, and personal expenses. Many students also consider taking out student loans, which are available through federal and provincial loan programs, to bridge any gaps in funding.

The university encourages students to take advantage of available financial resources, plan their budgets carefully, and seek advice to make studying archaeology an affordable experience. Overall, the combination of scholarships, grants, work opportunities, and loans aims to make the pursuit of an archaeology degree at the University of Calgary accessible to a diverse student body.

The Bachelor of Arts in Archaeology at the University of Calgary offers students a comprehensive introduction to the study of human history through material culture. This program emphasizes the understanding of ancient and contemporary societies by analyzing artifacts, architecture, and other cultural remains. Students engage in a multidisciplinary curriculum that combines archaeology, history, anthropology, and related fields, equipping them with both theoretical frameworks and practical skills necessary for archaeological research and cultural heritage management. The program includes coursework in archaeological theory, field methods, artifact analysis, and cultural resource management, preparing graduates for careers in academia, cultural heritage organizations, museums, and archaeological consulting firms. Students have opportunities to participate in field schools and excavations, gaining hands-on experience in archaeological excavation and lab processing. The program also encourages the development of critical thinking, research skills, and intercultural competence, which are essential for interpreting archaeological data across different contexts. Additionally, students can pursue specialized tracks or minors related to historic preservation, museum studies, or other related disciplines. Faculty members are active researchers in various areas of archaeology, offering mentorship and opportunities for undergraduate research projects. The university supports students through state-of-the-art facilities, such as archaeological laboratories and access to digital archaeological databases. The program strives to foster a multicultural and inclusive learning environment, preparing students to work internationally or in diverse local settings. Upon graduation, students are well-equipped with a broad cultural understanding and practical experience, enabling them to pursue advanced study or entry into fields such as cultural resource management, museum curation, heritage policy, or archaeological consulting. The University of Calgary’s Archaeology program emphasizes ethical archaeological practices, community engagement, and preserving cultural heritage for future generations.