The curriculum of the department focuses on the cultures of the Mediterranean regions and the Near East in antiquity. Courses treat aspects of society and material culture of these civilizations as well as issues of theory, method, and interpretation. The major requires a minimum of ten courses. Core requirements are Archaeology 101 and 102, one course in ancient history, and two semesters of the senior conference.
Additional requirements are determined in consultation with the major advisor.
Additional coursework in subjects related to archaeology is offered in Greek, Latin, Classical Studies, Hebrew, History of Art, Growth and Structure of Cities, Anthropology and Geology. Each student's course of study to meet major requirements will be determined in consultation with the undergraduate major advisor in the spring semester of the sophomore year. Students considering majoring in the department are encouraged to take the introductory courses early in their undergraduate career and should also seek advice from department faculty. Students who are interested in interdisciplinary concentrations or in spending a junior year abroad are strongly advised to seek assistance in planning their major early in their sophomore year. A semester-long research project, culminating in a lengthy paper written under the supervision of a member of the department, is required to be considered for honors.