Archaeology

Archaeology majors have the option of writing an honors thesis under the supervision of a faculty member. The thesis is based on an original research problem developed in conjunction with that faculty member. Successful completion of the thesis (B+ or higher) will result in the conferring of a BA with honors.

Students must pass 6 credits (2 semesters: AS.130.510 Archaeology Major Honors Thesis I and AS.130.511 Archaeology Major Honors Thesis II) of honors thesis to earn honors in the Archaeology Major. These credits are in addition to and exceed the number of credits needed for the major.

Students who are interested in pursuing an honors thesis should begin to discuss possibilities with a faculty advisor as early as possible and no later than during the second semester of Junior year. A proposal for the thesis must be approved by the faculty advisor before the student registers for the courses and no later than the end of the second semester of the Junior year.

The student will work closely with the faculty advisor, setting a timeline for completing research and submitting drafts of the thesis. A full draft of the thesis is due by the end of March of the Senior year, if the student wants to be listed as receiving honors on the commencement program. The final version of the thesis must be handed in by the last day of classes.

Learning Outcomes

1. Acquire the basic skills for understanding theory, interpretation, and methods in archaeology.
2. Develop an ability to analyze archaeological data through the reading and interpretation of archaeological publications and study of primary data.
3. Conduct analyses and interpretations of material culture in precise, well-organized, and persuasive language, both orally and in writing.
4. Acquire interdisciplinary knowledge of different past human cultures.
5. Gain significant knowledge of the material culture of at least one region or thematic issue.
6. Acquire on-site experience and expertise in archaeological method through fieldwork.

Hopkins invests in developing global perspectives so students can be engaged citizens wherever they are.

As a global university with students from all over the world, we welcome all kinds of experiences and new ways of thinking. We’re here to connect international students with the resources you need to become leaders and active members in our community and beyond. 

Please email [email protected] with any general international admissions questions. You can also email your regional admissions counselor if you have any questions specific to the area where you live or study.