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The Department of Anthropology

Archaeological

Anthropological archaeology studies material culture—artifacts, architecture, activity areas, and landscapes—produced by humans in order to understand past lifeways. Archaeology encompasses societies with written records, both recent and ancient (Montana mining towns and Pompeii) as well as societies whose only record are the objects they made and the places they modified (Native American prehistoric buffalo “jumps” in Montana and two million year old African tool scatters). Archaeologists are interested in answering cultural and social questions, both specific (How do ceramic dinner plate choices reflect social class in 19th century households?) and sweeping (Why did societies around the world take up agriculture about 10,000 years ago?). Archaeologists study people through artifacts; we do not study fossils unless they are associated with people. So, if you’re interested in dinosaurs, don’t ask an archaeologist!

The Department of Anthropology offers many ways to learn about archaeology, experience archaeology, and train to be an archaeologist. We have a well-rounded program with a focus on North America. Archaeology courses at the 200 and 300 level do not have prerequisites; all interested students are welcome. Anthropology undergraduates interested in specializing can earn an option in archaeology. During summer session, the Department often offers one or more field schools that represent an excellent opportunity to learn archaeological methods.

On the graduate level, some students pursue general archaeological skills and scholarship; our general M.A. program has an outstanding history in preparing students for prominent doctoral programs in archaeology, and some students in our Ph.D. program seek academic careers. Other graduate students pursue the applied uses of archaeology through the Cultural Heritage program, either through the attainment of an M.A. or a Ph.D. degree. The Cultural Heritage program trains students for future careers as professionals in Cultural Resource Management and Applied Archaeology. Recent graduates work for State Historic Preservation Offices, Tribal Historic Preservation Offices, Cultural Resource Management consulting firms, as well as a variety of Federal agencies.

Resources in Archaeological