Archaeologist

In this career guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about archaeology as a career, from roles and responsibilities, to work environment and roadmap to becoming an Archaeologist.

Who's an Archaeologist?

Everyone who has seen Indiana Jones envisioned themselves going on an expedition to find some long lost ruin. But, if you’re one of those people who held onto this desire and passion, you should consider a career in archaeology! While it may not be as exciting and adventurous as the movies, you will have your moments of excitement when you dig up some long lost artefact or discover another section of the Harappa civilisation! This may not be an everyday occurrence, but you can be assured that you will be immersed in history almost all the time – and that alone is exciting enough for a history-head such as yourself!

As an archeologist, you will study human history, civilisation and artifacts. This will include studying the culture, languages, and tools used by people of the past from various parts of the world. Want to know more about this career? Click here to find out.

Responsibilities

What will you do?

Identifying survey sites.

You will be responsible for the identification of the various survey sites across the world. You will use different mechanisms for this including satellite imaging, surveying grounds using geophysical equipment, further investigating sites where artefacts have been previously found.

Example: If a satellite image shows the presence of metals or other man-influenced substances in the ground, you would investigate that area.

Excavating a site.

Once you’ve classified an area as historically significant, you must begin excavating the site. You will either use machinery or tools for the excavation.

Example: You may dig a cave to look for evidence of some ancient civilisation.

Collecting data.

The primary job of an archaeologist is to collect data about a culture or a site. You would usually collect this data through observation, interview or documentation.

Example: If you were looking for information on a site in Egypt, you would talk to the locals there, read up on the area and its history, visit the site yourself, etc., to get information.

 

Researching existing information.

You are responsible for executing academic research of archives and archeological databases.  This is done to support your existing findings and understand its cultural and historical significance.

Example: If you find a piece of linen cloth in an area you’ve excavated, you will need to understand how that cloth got there. Did the ancestors of the land use linen? Was linen a common cloth used? And other research to understand the significance of your discovery.

Maintaining a repository of information.

Over the course of time, you will collect a lot of data about various sites. You must maintain this data and compile it in order to present this information to people.

Example: Every detail discovered about the Harappa and Mohenjodaro Civilisations have been documented and shared with the people and historians.

Take the Mentoria career assessment test, to find out how well-suited you are as an Archaeologist.

Workplace

Where will you work?

Research Centres

You would work at research centres, where you will examine, classify, and document your findings. Here, you will be working in coordination with the on-field archeologist. 

Sites

You will mostly work outdoors, looking for sites, digging up artifacts, researching, etc. During an excavation, you will be required to wear protective gear as these places can emit toxins or can be dangerous. 

Museums

Many archaeologists work in collaboration with museums who showcase their findings. You will be consulted on how to display the project and for details to be put up with the findings.

Education

How do you get there?

STEP 1: Class XI-XII/Junior College

Choose arts in junior college and make sure to choose history as one of your electives. Score at least 50%-70% to get into a good college.

STEP 2: Graduation

Opt for a three-year BA in History from colleges like Banaras Hindu University, University of Calcutta, etc. Score at least 55% to get into a good college for your Master’s degree.

STEP 3: Internship

Start working with research institutes as an intern. Here you would be tasked with documentation and other administrative tasks. You could also start working as an assistant with a researcher.

STEP 4: Post-graduation

After graduation, you can opt to do a diploma or degree course in archaeology from the Institute of Archaeology, the academic wing of archaeological Survey of India on passing the mandatory written and verbal interview. Alternatively, pursue a two-year Masters in Archaeology from colleges like Banaras Hindu University, University of Calcutta, etc., and start planning your first dig. You will need to have at least 50% marks in your bachelor’s degree to be eligible for this course.

Other top universities to pursue courses in archaeology are Maharaja Sayajirao University, Baroda and Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi.

STEP 4: Land a Job

 Once you have successfully obtained your masters degree, you can officially start working. Congratulations, you are now officially an archaeologist!

 

Thinking of a career as an Archaeologist? Take the Mentoria assessment test & talk to our career counsellors to get personalized step-by-step guidance for your future career path.

STEP 1: Class XI-XII/Junior College

While arts is the best option for archaeology, if you’re interested in learning about business, study commerce in junior college. Make sure you get a high score as preferences are given to students with an arts background for a graduation course.

STEP 2: Graduation

Opt for a three-year BA in History from colleges like Banaras Hindu University, University of Calcutta, etc. Score at least 55% to get into a good college for your Master’s degree.

STEP 3: Internship

Start working with research institutes as an intern. Here you would be tasked with documentation and other administrative tasks. You could also start working as an assistant with a researcher.

STEP 4: Post-graduation

After graduation, you can opt to do a diploma or degree course in archaeology from the Institute of Archaeology, the academic wing of archaeological Survey of India on passing the mandatory written and verbal interview. Alternatively, pursue a two-year Masters in Archaeology from colleges like Banaras Hindu University, University of Calcutta, etc., and start planning your first dig. You will need to have at least 50% marks in your bachelor’s degree to be eligible for this course.

Other top universities to pursue courses in archaeology are Maharaja Sayajirao University, Baroda and Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi.

STEP 5: Land a Job

Once you have successfully obtained your masters degree, you can officially start working. Congratulations, you are now officially an archaeologist!

 

Thinking of a career as an Archaeologist? Take the Mentoria assessment test & talk to our career counsellors to get personalized step-by-step guidance for your future career path.

STEP 1: Class XI-XII/Junior College

If you’re interested in a more scientific approach to archaeology, take up science in junior college. You will need at least 50% marks to qualify for a graduation course.

STEP 2: Graduation

Opt for a four-year BSc in Anthropology from colleges like Hansraj College (Mumbai), Bidhannagar College (Kolkata), Dimoria College (Assam), etc. Score at least 55% to get into a good college for your Master’s degree.

STEP 3: Internship

Start working with research institutes as an intern. Here you would be tasked with documentation and other administrative tasks. You could also start working as an assistant with a researcher.

STEP 4: Post-graduation

After graduation, you can opt to do a diploma or degree course in archaeology from the Institute of Archaeology, the academic wing of archaeological Survey of India on passing the mandatory written and verbal interview.

Alternatively, pursue a two-year Masters of Science in Anthropology from colleges like Savitribai Phule Pune University (Pune), University of Delhi, etc., and start planning your first dig. You will need to have at least 50% marks in your bachelor’s degree to be eligible for this course.

Other top universities to pursue courses in archaeology are Maharaja Sayajirao University, Baroda and Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi.

STEP 5: Get a Job

Once you have successfully obtained your masters degree, you can officially start working. Congratulations, you are now officially an archaeologist!

 

Thinking of a career as an Archaeologist? Take the Mentoria assessment test & talk to our career counsellors to get personalized step-by-step guidance for your future career path.

What skills would you need?

Research

Research

Research is the systematic process of collecting, analysing, and interpreting information to increase understanding of a particular topic or issue. It involves identifying a question or problem, gathering relevant data, and evaluating sources to draw meaningful conclusions. Research can take various forms, including qualitative studies (which explore perceptions and experiences) and quantitative studies (which focus on numerical data and statistics). Strong research skills will enable you to find reliable information, assess the credibility of sources, and synthesise findings to support decision-making or further exploration. This skill is crucial in many fields, such as academia, business, healthcare, and technology, where informed decisions rely on thorough investigation and analysis. build this skill
Analytical and Data Skills

Analytical and Data Skills

Analytical and data skills involve the ability to evaluate information, interpret data, and draw insights to solve problems or make informed decisions. These skills require critical thinking, logical reasoning, and proficiency in working with data sets, often using tools like Excel, SQL, or statistical software. This skill set helps you break down complex problems, identify patterns, and make data-driven decisions. In the workplace, strong analytical and data skills allow you to provide insights that guide strategies, optimise processes, and drive innovation. They are essential for roles involving research, business analysis, marketing, finance, and operations. build this skill
Communication Skills

Communication Skills

Communication skills are the ability to clearly express ideas, information, and feelings, both verbally and in writing, so others can easily understand. This includes listening effectively, using the right tone, and being aware of non-verbal cues like body language. These skills help you explain your thoughts clearly, build relationships, and work better in teams. Good communication is important in almost every job, from customer service to leadership roles, because it ensures that tasks are understood and done correctly, and it helps prevent misunderstandings. build this skill
Attention to Detail

Attention to Detail

Attention to detail means being careful and noticing small things that others might miss. It involves checking your work carefully for mistakes, following instructions exactly, and making sure everything is done correctly. This skill helps you do accurate work and avoid errors. In jobs, attention to detail is important for tasks like writing reports, managing data, or following safety rules.     build this skill
Promotion levels

How do you make it to the top ranks?

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Intern

As an intern, you would be working in different departments and handle small tasks such as studying excavation techniques and archaeological concepts, writing narratives and also answering questions posed by site visitors.

Junior Archaeologist

At this stage, you would examine ancient sites and structures. Based on your interests, you would either be in the field or the laboratory conducting researching. You will have to learn the use of various digging equipment. Grouping, identifying and classifying archaeological remains would be your responsibility.

Senior Archaeologist

As a senior archaeologist, you would handle more than one archaeological project at a time. You would guide a team of junior archaeologists. You will need extensive knowledge of field assessment techniques so you can take inventory of artefacts recovered, evaluate them and record their data.

Principal Archaeologist

You would be heading an archaeological firm and zeroing in on new survey sites. You will research on the project using documents, maps and aerial photos. You will also work on developing new research designs and coordinate with the fieldwork team and other principal investigators.

Scope

Pursuing your career locally VS abroad

If you study archaeology in India, you will learn of the heritage sites and structures here and build a connection with the experts in the field. In India, there is a high demand for archaeologists owing to the country’s ancient civilisation that still needs to be unearthed. Opt for a BA in archaeology, and a postgraduation in subjects such as culture and archaeology, anthropology, fine arts, etc.

Top institutes to study archaeology in India are Deccan College Post-Graduate and Research Institute, Delhi Institute of Heritage Research and Management, Institute of Archaeology, Archaeological Survey of India, etc. The duration of the study depends on the course you have opted for. The average cost for pursuing archaeology in India is INR 5,000 – INR 50,000, depending on the university and duration of the course you opt for.

Studying archaeology abroad would give you the hands-on experience you need to deepen your understanding of the field. They organise visits to active dig sites around the globe, visit renowned archaeological and anthropology museums and have an overall practical approach to teaching.

Also, studying archaeology abroad will help you build a good network there, which would further make it easy for you to secure a job abroad. Top archaeology schools abroad are the University of Cambridge, Harvard University, University of Oxford, etc. The average fee for studying archaeology abroad ranges between INR 90,000 – INR 2,00,000 depending on the university you opt for.

Payscale

How much would you get paid?

Your salary would largely depend on your skill-set, qualifications, the organisation you’re working with, etc. However, we can give you a fair idea of how much you could make at each stage.


Specialisations

What are your career options?

Field Research

A field technician gets an opportunity to travel all over the world, excavating and conducting surveys at different sites. As a field technician, you would be responsible for conducting surveys and preparing detailed field notes, maps, documentation of finds, etc. You would use different kinds of equipment for surveys, detection, identification, etc.

 

Geoarchaeology

To put it simply, geo archaeologists study the soils and landscapes of the archaeological sites. A geoarchaeologist uses geography, geology and earth science techniques to determine how a landscape has undergone a change throughout the years. Here, you would work with archaeologists to help survey a site better by informing them about the geomorphology of the soil, sediments, rocks of the buried sites and artefacts. You would help archaeologists determine how ‘prehistoric’ the site is.

 

Maritime Archaeology

A maritime archaeologist studies material related to human interaction with the sea, lakes and rivers. You would study shipwrecks, ship burials, jetties, harbours, lighthouses, fish traps, etc. Another specialisation within maritime archaeology is nautical archaeology that studies ship construction and use.

Geographic Information Systems

A GIS technician typically assists scientists and technicians in maintaining, modifying and using GIS databases. You would work on creating maps and custom GIS software or applications for a variety of purposes. Your job would mainly involve data modeling, and analysing spatial or topographical data.

Archaeozoology

An Archaeozoologist studies the remains of an animal i.e. bones, shells, hair, hides and DNA. The remains can be found at archaeological sites. You will use taphonomy, the study of fossilisation, to determine how the items are buried and deposited in the site in question. You would also take these remains to a lab to determine what animal it is.

Academics

An academic archaeologist conducts classes on archaeology, anthropology or ancient history at universities or colleges. You would conduct site visits, teach students how to research and analyse remains, and impart knowledge on the various techniques of excavation. You would also conduct research from time to time and publish your findings in journals and books.

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