Archaeology

Archaeology studies past and contemporary human cultures, across a variety of spatial and temporal scales, through the material left behind. Our objects of study encompass artifacts (e.g. tools and other objects modified or created by humans), features (e.g. architectural remains, hearths, artistic depictions), ecofacts (e.g. plant, animal and human remains, as well as sediments), archaeological sites and their associated landscape settings.

Archaeology at Memorial

In the Department of Archaeology, our students engage in practical training and experiential learning in classroom, laboratory and fieldwork settings that provide a comprehensive education and transferable skills. We have begun to develop and expand our distance learning options through the development of online courses and remote teaching offerings that allow students from all over the world and different walks of life to join and learn with us and discover different aspects of archaeology. State of the art laboratories specializing in applied archaeological sciences, environmental archaeology, archaeological conservation, and artifact analysis integrate students into community-university research initiatives from Northern Labrador to French Guiana and from Alaska to Northwest Europe.

As one of the largest Archaeology departments in the country, we train our students to become effective researchers, critical thinkers, and active stewards for our shared archaeological heritage.

A bachelor of arts degree, with a major in archaeology, prepares students for a variety of careers including:

• cultural resource management
• museums and archives
• heritage administration
• community research
• tourism
• education

Meet one of their graduates.

Note: some of these careers may call for supplementary education or preparation in the form of graduate studies, experiential learning or professional courses and exams.

1. Choose a program and a campus

Memorial University offers a wide variety of programs. With over 300 program options and multiple campuses to choose from, your choices are wide open. Check out what is offered at the St. John’s Campus, Grenfell Campus, the Marine Institute, the Labrador Campus or online.