Graduate Diploma of Archaeology

If you're looking to quickly develop specialist skills in contemporary archaeological practice, La Trobe's Graduate Diploma of Archaeology will give you solid foundations for a career in archaeology and heritage management.

You'll acquire comprehensive knowledge of Australian and Indigenous Australian archaeology, and you'll learn from renowned researchers in La Trobe's world-class facilities.

You'll get hands-on experience as you choose from a wide range of subjects, including specialist studies such as heritage planning, community consultation, field techniques and more. As part of your studies, you could also record and analyse archaeological artefacts, learn to identify materials, and catalogue and manage artefacts.

Upon successful completion of the Graduate Diploma of Archaeology, you may be eligible for advanced standing for eight subjects in the Master of Archaeology, should you choose to continue your studies.

You'll learn:

• Indigenous and historic archaeology
  • Delve into Indigenous Australian and historic archaeology. Examine past practice and contemporary advances and findings.
• Cultural heritage management
  • Learn to navigate and guide others in the ethical and regulatory requirements of managing sites and objects of cultural importance.
• Archaeological field methods
  • Build the practical skills and knowledge you need to conduct archaeological fieldwork in Australia and overseas.

The qualification awarded on graduation is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) as Level 8 - Graduate Diploma.

Successful completion of an Australian bachelor degree (or equivalent).

Prior learning developed through relevant work experience or professional accreditation, where it is deemed to be at least equivalent to that obtained through a Bachelor degree, may be considered. In making an offer to an applicant, the University will give consideration to a range of factors, including academic record, English proficiency and/or employment experience.

6.5 IELTS (Academic) with no individual band less than 6.0.

After graduation, you could work in specialist fields such as professional archaeology, cultural heritage management or research. The State of Victoria has robust laws protecting our heritage and, combined with continued government investment in infrastructure, there's very strong demand for archaeologists.[1]

Possible roles include:

• Professional archaeologist
  • Study human activity from the past. Recover artefacts, analyse samples in the laboratory and advise on sites of historical importance.
• Heritage manager
  • Identify and protect sites of cultural importance. Advise government and non-government organisations on the maintenance and protection of historically and culturally significant sites and buildings.[2]
• Museum curator
  • Educate communities about the past while protecting and maintaining culturally significant collections.

[1] Job Outlook, 2021, Archaeologists

[2] Some additional study may be needed for registration in Victoria as a Heritage Advisor.