University of Kent > Careers > Choosing a Career >I Want to Work in ...
Archaeologists can be found in many workplaces and organisations – not just in muddy holes in the ground! Archaeologists are employed in national agencies, local authorities, museums, universities, planning consultancies, and private practice, undertaking a wide variety of activities from field practice to laboratory work, information management to education, specialist research to artifact curation and display.
If you want a career in archaeology, you should get as much relevant experience as possible. Develop practical 'hands on' skills through volunteering on digs and with local archaeological societies – even if you are only given dull and routine tasks, this will help to increase your skills and confidence, give you a network of contacts and give you something extra to put on your CV when applying for jobs.
See the Occupational Profile at www.prospects.ac.uk/links/archaeologist and our What can I do with my degree in .... Classical and Archaeological Studies page www.kent.ac.uk/careers/classics.htm
There are four main areas where traditional archaeology and criminal investigation come together: recovery (excavation techniques; evidence recording; materials recovery and conservation); search (aerial photography; survey); skeletal analysis (identification; physical anthropology); and analytical science (dating; species identification). Most forensic archaeologists are employed by universities, but other possible employers include large police forces and museums.
It's a highly competitive area and you will rarely find vacancies advertised as it's such a small field. To get in you need a relevant Masters degree (see below) : a PhD would be even better. You also need to network - talk to people doing the job about possible openings. See our Creative Careers Search page www.kent.ac.uk/careers/sk/CJ.htm
| Archaeologist: someone whose career lies in ruins. |
Last fully updated 2012
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