Archaeology
UNDERGRADUATE MAJOR
A major in Archaeology provides a vivid understanding of how the past informs our present through its focus on material remains of the human past. Its methods range from scientific analysis of artefacts and landscapes to interpretation of ancient art and written documents and beyond. The University of Sydney has Australia's oldest Department of Archaeology and offers the widest program of teaching and research. Staff conduct fieldwork in Australia, Oceania, East and South-East Asia (Angkor in Cambodia), China, Central Asia, Western Asia (Iran, Jordan) and the Mediterranean (Cyprus, Greece, Italy). Our teaching program reflects these regional interests.
Study plan
To major in Archaeology students must complete a minimum of 36 senior credit points (6 units) of Archaeology, to a maximum of 60 credit points. Students may choose to focus on one region, in which case they are encouraged also to take cognate units in other departments. For admission students are strongly encouraged to complete 12 junior credit points by taking the two units ARC A1001 and ARC A1002. Students interested in Classical Archaeology can gain entry to relevant senior level units by taking either ARC A1001 or ARC A1002 combined with a unit of Ancient History (ANHS 1601 or ANHS 1602).
Graduate opportunities
Sydney Arts and Social Sciences graduates work in government departments at all levels, and major private sector consultancies and corporations, locally and overseas. The Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences offers a range of subject areas that prepare graduates for careers in administration, education, business research, marketing, media, management consultancy, public relations, gallery and museum curatorship, hospitality and tourism, community and welfare. Our graduates are proficient in research and inquiry, and demonstrate personal and intellectual autonomy, and ethical, social and professional understanding, qualities sought after by leading employers all over the world.
Further study for major
Eligible candidates may proceed to an Honours year in the Bachelor of Arts, or apply for admission to a rich postgraduate program in the humanities and social sciences, comprising advanced learning and professional courses. Master degrees include capstone projects ranging from internships with government and non-government organisations in Australia and overseas, the gallery and museum sector, and leading media organisations, to opportunities for independent research projects which prepare students for higher degrees by research.
Related subject areas
Ancient History, History