Have you ever thought of revisiting a place that existed centuries back?
By visiting archaeological sites around the world, you can see how the city of Pompeii worked before a volcanic eruption destroyed it or visit Hampi to know the glory of the Vijayanagar empire. Like we retrieve deleted data from our social networking sites, we can dig and recover our past through several archaeological tools. Therefore, Archaeology is the subfield of Anthropology and has a close connection with Palaeontology. Those who have a research mind with an interest in archaeological excavations would be a great career option.
Future Scope for a Career in Archaeology
- The main recruiter of archaeologists in India is the ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) at the state and central levels.
- In India, you can work in the Defence Services, Council of Cultural Relations and Department of External Affairs.
- For the safekeeping and management of museum artefacts, archaeologists are sought out by the government as well as by private museums.
- Archaeologists can work as historic building inspectors/conservation officers in order to preserve buildings of special heritage.
- Archaeologists have several roles in the maintenance and conservation of world heritage sites.
- Tourism is recognised as one of the largest industries in the world. Archaeologists have several job roles in tourism, including tourist guides, heritage managers and resource persons for trip organisers.
Skills Required to Study Archaeology
- Enthusiasm to know about developments in archaeology
- Ability to interpret spatial data
- Well-organised approach, with effective attention to detailing
- Strong teamwork skills, particularly in fieldwork
- Self-motivation and focus
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to effectively work with other professionals
- Master in using various tools and instruments
- Patience and dedication
- Good IT skills
- Analytical mind, with a keen interest in archaeology
- Statistical and mathematical skills
Careers in Archaeology
- Archaeologist
- Historic buildings inspector/conservation officer
- Museum/gallery curator
- Heritage manager
- Lecturer
- Documentation Specialist
- Museum education officer
- Tourist guide
- Interpreters resource persons of trip organizers in tourism
Eligibility to Pursue a Degree in Archaeology
Students who passed 10+2 from recognized institutions under any stream can apply for a bachelor’s degree in Archaeology.
Entrance Examinations
There is no specific entrance examination for this course.
Top Colleges/Universities in India and Abroad to Study Archaeology
- Stanford University, USA
- University of Colorado Boulder USA
- University College London, UK
- Leiden University, Netherlands
- Durham University, UK
- University of Bristol, UK
- Gurukula Kangri Vishwavidyalaya, India
- Singhania University, Jhunjhunu, India
- Janardan Rai Nagar Rajasthan Vidyapeeth University, India
- Jagadguru Rambhadracharya Divyanga University, India
- Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University, India
Famous People Connected With Archaeology
Howard Carter
One of the most celebrated archaeologists to this day, Carter made one of the richest contributions to archaeology by discovering the tomb of King Tutankhamen.
Louis Leakey
Kenyan archaeologist and anthropologist. His work was important in demonstrating that humans evolved in Africa and were far older than had previously been believed.
Top Institutions that Employ People in this Field
- Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)
- National heritage agencies
- Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR)
- Government and private museums and cultural galleries
- Universities and colleges
- Tourist organisations
- Council of Cultural Relations
- Department of the Ministry of External Affairs
- World Heritage Sites
- Cultural Organisations
- Art Galleries
