Thinking about a career in archeology? Unsure of where or how to get started? Have questions about what life as an archeologist is like? Information and advice is spread across the Web, so we've compiled places to get started.

 

Can you point me to printable flyers suitable for middle schoolers or high schoolers who are interested in archeology as a career?

Check out these flyers from the Society for American Archaeology.

• Could the Past Be in Your Future? (for middle school) (pdf)
• Is the Past in Your Future? (for high school) (pdf)
• The Path to Becoming an Archaeologist (pdf)
• Careers in Archaeology Education (pdf)

 

I need help thinking through whether or not archaeology is a good fit for me. Can you recommend places online to read more?

Try these web-based resources for some terrific advice:

• Frequently Asked Questions About a Career in Archaeology in the U.S. (David Carlson)
• Archaeology and You (Society for American Archaeology)
• Exploring the Possibilities (Cynthia Ann Bettison)

 

Where do archeologists work?

Archeologists in the United States work in a range of settings, including universities and colleges; museums and historic sites; government agencies at all levels including federal, tribal, state, and local; engineering and Cultural Resource Management (CRM) firms; historical societies; professional societies; and private foundations. In the NPS specifically, archeologists work in parks, in regional offices and centers, and in the Washington Office.

Here are a few jobhunting sites for archeology:

• USA Jobs (for federal jobs, like the National Park Service)
• Career Center (American Anthropological Association)
• Career Services (Archaeological Institute of America)
• Job Announcements (Society for American Archaeology)
• Job Board (Society for Historical Archaeology)

 

What colleges and universities offer archeology degrees?

Look to the guides below for information on archeology departments. If you are particularly interested in one aspect of archeology, be it a culture, a place, or technical specialty, be sure to hone your search on departments with strengths in those areas.

• Academic Programs in Archaeology (Society for American Archaeology)
• Guide to Higher Education (Society for Historical Archaeology)
• AAA Guide (American Anthropological Association)

 

How can I get some experience in archeology that will look good when applying for a job?

Look for programs and other opportunities using the links below. Search online for "archaeology field school" or "volunteer archaeology" or "archaeology internship." You'll get dozens of results from states, private companies, museums, and colleges or universities. If you have a park in mind, be in contact directly to find out if they can work with you.

• NPS Jobs for Students
• NPS Volunteer Opportunities
• US Forest Service Passport in Time Volunteer Program

 

How do I network or get to know other archeologists?

Joining a national, regional, or local professional society is a great way to get to know other archeologists. Conferences offer ways to share information, hear about new ideas, and stock up on the latest literature. Another way is to get in touch with archeologists in your area for an informational interview. You might start with your state archeologist or State Historic Preservation Officer.

• American Anthropological Association
• Society for American Archaeology
• Society for Applied Anthropology
• Society for Historical Archaeology
• Archaeological Institute of America
• American Cultural Resources Association