Careers in Archaeology

Archaeology involves the study of humanity, society and culture, past and present, incorporating many different scientific and theoretical approaches.

Archaeology involves the study of past societies through their material remains and environmental context, and encompasses major questions about past cultural practices, on a local to global scale, as well as the responsible management of our shared heritage.

The skills you will develop – a wide range of analytical, practical and social skills – are easily applied to the workplace and will open up a spectrum of career paths to you.

From group work skills, verbal and written communication skills for technical and lay audiences, to IT, numeracy and data handling, archaeology and anthropology graduates are well-equipped to make significant contributions from their first day of employment. 

Postgraduate Study

Some of our undergraduate students go on to further study, mostly following research-based programmes such as MPhils and PhDs, but also including taught Master's programmes and applied programmes like PGCEs.

As an archaeology undergraduate, you will develop a range of skills that will open up a spectrum of career paths to you. However, you might want to develop your skills and specialist knowledge further with a postgraduate programme.

Postgraduate careers

Possible destinations for UK postgraduate students might include:

  • National heritage organisations, such as English Heritage, the National Trust and CADW
  • Local authority heritage and environment services
  • Archaeological units
  • Museums - particularly curatorial and education/outreach jobs
  • National park authorities
  • Environmental and heritage consultants
  • Universities

Overseas students also have a strong track record of finding employment in their national heritage sector.