Some classes in the earth sciences are beneficial, particularly geology. Coursework from the geography department in soils and river formations will also be helpful to an archaeologist. If you are able to identify an archaeological specialty you are interested in early in your education, you will be able to gear your open class hours towards your specialty. Some archaeology students find work as contract archaeologists after graduation. Contract archaeologists work for private companies and are hired to survey sites prior to construction.
Every state also hires archaeologists to ensure the preservation of the state s prehistory.
If you are interested in going out on actual digs , it is important to gain experience in the field during your education. Most major universities offer field schools, or except credit from outside field schools, for their archaeology students. A field school often takes place during the summer session and offers the student this all-important experience. If you are interested in teaching or working at a museum, you should expect to pursue your Masters degree. If you would like to do research at the university level, you will need to pursue your Ph.D. Perhaps most importantly, however, Archaeology is a fascinating liberal arts education that allows the student varied career opportunities that any other liberal arts degree would.