Indiana University of Pennsylvania

What you'll study

The programme balances core theoretical and methodological training with hands-on practical modules. Typical areas of study include archaeological field methods and survey, excavation techniques, archaeological theory, lab analysis (including lithic and ceramic analysis), zooarchaeology, archaeobotany, dating methods, and geographic information systems (GIS) for archaeology. Students also study cultural resource management (CRM) practice and legislation relevant to the United States, and have opportunities to take specialised seminars in regional prehistory, historic archaeology and public archaeology.

Learning is delivered through a mixture of lectures, small-group seminars, laboratory sessions and fieldwork. Field training is a central component: students take part in supervised excavations and survey projects, and carry out laboratory processing and analysis of recovered materials. The programme offers research supervision for a thesis or comparable capstone research project, and many students complete applied projects in partnership with local heritage organisations.

Entry requirements

• A recognised bachelor's degree in archaeology, anthropology or a closely related discipline. Candidates with degrees in other fields who can demonstrate relevant archaeological experience or coursework may also be considered.
• A competitive undergraduate grade point average. Applicants should check the department for minimum GPA guidance; meeting a minimum does not guarantee admission.
• Submission of academic transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining research interests and career goals, and two or three letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
• A curriculum vitae or résumé documenting relevant field, laboratory or professional experience.
• Some applicants are asked to provide a short writing sample and may be invited to interview with faculty to discuss research fit and training needs.
• Previous fieldwork or laboratory experience is desirable, particularly for students aiming for immediate employment in CRM or museum contexts. Where applicants lack direct experience, the programme’s field training components provide practical upskilling.

Career prospects

Graduates from the programme go on to a range of careers across the heritage sector. Common destinations include cultural resource management (CRM) firms, state and federal historic preservation agencies, museums and collections management, and local heritage or parks services. Graduates also work in public archaeology, community archaeology programmes, and conservation organisations.

The degree provides a foundation for further academic study (PhD) for those interested in teaching and research careers. Skills gained — field excavation, artefact analysis, GIS, report-writing and project management — are also valued in related sectors such as environmental consulting, education and cultural tourism.

Why study at Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Indiana University of Pennsylvania offers a programme with strong regional focus and practical emphasis, benefiting from proximity to a range of archaeological sites and historic landscapes in the Northeastern United States. The department emphasises hands-on training through field projects and laboratory work, allowing students to build a professional portfolio of excavations, analyses and reports.

Students work with faculty who have active research programmes and community partnerships, providing opportunities for collaborative projects and placements with heritage organisations and CRM practitioners. The department’s small cohort sizes support close mentorship and tailored supervision for research projects. Additionally, the university provides access to on-campus facilities and equipment for artefact processing, GIS and specialised analyses that underpin both academic and applied career paths.