Archaeology

The MA in Archaeology prepares students for professional careers in museums and in public and private cultural resource management and heritage work as well as for further study towards the PhD in Archaeology or a related field. The intent of the program is to provide appropriate education and training in the recovery, analysis, and interpretation of archaeological materials and contexts while assuring sufficient background in one or more cognate fields, such as classics, art history, anthropology, and history. The program includes classroom and practical training in the quantitative methods and scientific techniques employed in the analysis, dating, and interpretation of archaeological finds, either within the framework of the Archaeology curriculum or within that of other departments or programs.

Applicants must have a BA or BS, preferably from a program in archaeology or one related to archaeology (such as anthropology or classical studies, with a concentration in archaeology). Students lacking sufficient preparation in archaeology will be required to take courses, as determined by the Graduate Studies Committee, to make up the deficiency. On occasion these courses may be beyond the minimum specified by the Graduate School.

Course Requirements

A minimum of eight semester courses (32 credits) is required. Current requirements include:

• GRS AR 891 Contemporary Theory in Archaeology
• GRS AR 892 Archaeological Ethics and the Law
• GRS AR 893 World Archaeology
• GRS AR 894 Scientific Methods in Archaeology
• 4 credits of field or laboratory research

Students must also complete a master’s research project report or pass the PhD qualifying examinations.

Language Requirement

All students pursuing an MA in Archaeology are required to demonstrate graduate-level reading proficiency in a foreign language by the end of the second semester of study. Language proficiency can be demonstrated either through a language examination, successful completion of a non-credit graduate-level foreign language reading course offered by Boston University, or the equivalent of two years of undergraduate study of the language at Boston University.

Master’s Project

The master’s project will consist of a substantial piece of research and writing. There is no specific format and style; both will depend on the nature of the project. The prospectus must be approved by the Advisory Committee and submitted to the Director of Graduate Studies for review by the Graduate Studies Committee by the eighth week of the student’s second semester in the program.

Requirements

• Application
• $95 Application fee
• Uploaded Transcripts.  On the application, you will have the opportunity to upload an unofficial copy of your transcript. Please note you will be required to submit official transcripts if you accept our offer of admission..
• Two official letters of recommendation. Recommendations should be submitted through the online recommendation system. Photocopies and other facsimiles, such as scanned/emailed or faxed documents will not be considered official. 
  Most departments ask for three letters; check your department’s requirements at Application Requirements and Deadlines.
• Official GRE General scores, sent by ETS to institution code 3087.
  Some departments may also require the Subject Test; contact your department for details. Applicants applying to MFA programs are not required to submit GRE scores.
• Official TOEFL scores sent by ETS to institution code 3087.
• Personal Statement
• Resume or CV (highly recommended, not required)
• Writing Sample
  A writing sample is required by some but not all departments.  Check your department’s requirements at Application Requirements and Deadlines.
• International Student Documents

The Bachelor of Arts in Archaeology at Boston University offers a variety of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. The primary sources of funding include merit-based scholarships, need-based financial aid, and external scholarship opportunities. Merit-based scholarships are awarded to students demonstrating outstanding academic achievement, research potential, or special talents relevant to archaeology and related fields. Need-based financial aid is available to students who demonstrate financial need through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) process, with awards varying according to individual financial circumstances. Boston University also participates in federal and state financial aid programs, which can provide grants, loans, and work-study opportunities to eligible students.

In addition to university-funded aid, students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities from archaeological associations, cultural heritage organizations, and private foundations. Some of these external awards are specifically aimed at students pursuing studies in archaeology, anthropology, or related disciplines, and can significantly offset educational expenses. The university's Office of Financial Assistance provides comprehensive counseling, resources, and application guidance to help students identify and apply for various funding sources.

Boston University also offers departmental scholarships and fellowships that recognize academic excellence in archaeology, often awarded through a competitive application process. These departmental awards can include research stipends, travel grants for archaeological fieldwork, and tuition waivers. Students are advised to maintain strong academic records and engage actively in research and fieldwork opportunities to increase their competitiveness for these funding options.

Furthermore, students enrolled in the archaeology program are encouraged to seek research assistantships and teaching assistantships provided by faculty members involved in archaeological projects. These positions often provide a stipend and tuition remission in exchange for research support or teaching responsibilities. Internally, Boston University’s financial aid office offers workshops and resources to help students plan and manage their financing strategies effectively.

Overall, Boston University is committed to making archaeology education accessible and affordable through a combination of institutional aid, external funding, and student employment opportunities. Prospective and current students should consult the university’s official financial aid website and contact the financial aid office directly to obtain the most current and tailored information regarding available financing options for the archaeology program.

The Bachelor of Arts in Archaeology at Boston University offers students a comprehensive understanding of human history and prehistory through the study of material culture, ancient societies, and archaeological methods. The program provides a multidisciplinary approach, integrating anthropology, history, art history, and science to explore archaeological sites, artifacts, and contexts across different periods and regions. Students have the opportunity to engage in fieldwork and laboratory research, gaining practical experience in excavations, artifact analysis, and archaeological documentation. The curriculum is designed to develop critical thinking, detailed observational skills, and scientific analysis, preparing graduates for careers in archaeology, museum curation, cultural resource management, or graduate studies. Additionally, students can specialize in areas such as Classical Archaeology, Near Eastern Archaeology, or African Archaeology, among others, by choosing relevant elective courses. Boston University's program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, with access to advanced archaeological laboratory facilities and collaboration with faculty active in archaeological research. The program also encourages internships and study abroad opportunities to enhance cultural understanding and practical skills. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to contribute to academic research, heritage preservation, and public education related to archaeological heritage. Overall, the Archaeology program at Boston University aims to cultivate a deep appreciation for human history, develop research expertise, and prepare students for diverse roles within the archaeological and broader cultural sectors.