辛辛那提大学

Archaeology students become familiar with approaches for studying the archaeological record to make inferences about prehistoric peoples, their societies and environments. Archaeology majors develop research skills that enable them to investigate problems, analyze and evaluate data and infer aspects of ancient human behavior and modes of organization. Students learn about archaeological ethics, the history of archaeology, heritage management and the relevance of archaeology to contemporary society. Archaeology majors pick one of three tracks on which to focus: landscape archaeology, geoarchaeology, and archaeology of social complexity.

Landscape Archaeology refers to the suite of archaeological and geo-spatial approaches, such as survey archaeology, geographic information systems (GIS), global positioning systems (GPS) and remote sensing (terrestrial, airborne, and satellite) for determining the degree to which humans have altered terrain (i.e., the geophysical environment) and vegetation communities for economic, political and ideological reasons

Success

The focus of the program is on experiential learning that includes field school training, laboratory and museum research, and participation in community historic preservation and archaeological projects. With its emphasis on research and professional training, the program provides undergraduate students with opportunities to directly participate in scholarly research through hands-on activities. The program incorporates information about recent discoveries and current interpretations of archaeological research in order that students will appreciate the evolving nature of knowledge and theories in the field. The program also integrates core values of citizenship, cultural diversity, cultural heritage appreciation and historic preservation.

Career

The need for individuals trained in archaeology is clearly illustrated by the abundance of local, state and national government institutions and agencies that have staffs of archaeologists, including the USDI Bureau of Land Management, the US Army Corps of Engineers, the USDI National Park Service, the USDA Forest Service, the USDI Fish and Wildlife Service and the Ohio Department of Transportation, among others. In addition, studies conducted by the Society for American Archaeology indicate that trained archaeologists at the BA level will be needed to fill numerous positions within city, county, state and federal agencies that will become available as the baby-boom generation enters retirement. Moreover, graduates of the UC archaeology program will have a competitive advantage if they choose to continue their studies in MA programs.