Use multiple perspectives to learn about archaeology

Archaeologists use skills and knowledge from the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, data science, and mathematics to study the human past. Check out our current courses and imagine the possibilities.

What you'll study

Whether you're working toward a major or minor in Archaeology, you'll want to check out the core courses, which are offered each semester. Most other courses are offered on a rotating basis.
  • Archaeology Major

    At College of Charleston, you can earn a Bachelor of Arts in Archaeology.

    You'll also need to declare a cognate major. A cognate major is a secondary area of academic study that complements your primary studies. 

    Why get a cognate major? 

    • Adding a cognate major will help you you deepen your understanding of Archaeology. 
    • You'll have more career flexibility and a more versatile resume. 
    • It can strengthen your application to graduate or professional schools. 

    Which major can I select as my cognate major? 

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  • Archaeology Minor

    Let's be honest—who doesn't like learning about ancient civilizations, lost cities and human evolution?! Whether you're interested in history, science, storytelling, or technology, you should consider a minor in archaeology. 

    Minor Requirements: Archaeology

    Interdisciplinary skills 

    Archaeology overlaps with many fields like history, anthroplogy, geology, chemistry, art and even computer science. It sharpens your ability to connect dots across disciplines and think critically from different points of view. 

    Research and analytical thinking 

    You'll gain experience collecting data, analyzing patterns and forming evidence-based conclusions. These are transferable skills that look great on graduate and professional school applications as well as in the workforce. 

    Global and cultural perspective

    Archaeology gives you insight into how humans lived, adapted and interacted across thousands of years and various cultures. It deepens your understanding of current issues. 

  • Capstone courses

    You must complete a hands-on application of theory and methods through fieldwork or lab work. 

    Archaeology Internship

    This is an opportunity for you to have a supervised field placement in the areas related to your field of archaeology. Consult the Archaeology Internship Coordinator for details. 

    Archaeology Field Methods in Classical Archaeology 

    This is an opportunity for you to be introduced to the major methods of fieldwork through active participation in an archaeological project. Some travel is required. 

    Field Work 

    This course offers you hands-on learning opportunities in one of the four fields of anthropology: archaeology, biological, cultural or linguistic anthropology.

    Field School in Archaeology 

    In this course, you'll participate in ongoing research conducted by professional archaeologists. This is a comprehensive archaeological field school where you'll receive in-depth training in all phases of basic archaeological field research. 

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  • Electives

    Customize your education

    From studying state formations in the Mediterranean World to learning about Ancient Egyptian medicine and medical magic, there is something for everyone when it comes to choosing an elective. Truly personalize your course of study by finding the courses that best fit your area of study. 

    You'll need to complete courses in the sciences as well. You can take natural science, data science and/or mathematics courses to fullful this requirement. Because we want you to study what's interesting to you, you can choose from a variety of topics, including courses on plants, animals, ecology, evolution, biology and marine biology, chemistry, geology, and Geographical Information Systems (GIS).

     

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