Archaeology & Geography | University of Lethbridge

Explore Archaeology

Break new ground Do you enjoy learning about ancient civilizations? Does the idea of unearthing artifacts excite you? Do you like searching through collections and archives for clues to an historical puzzle you may not have all the pieces for?

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Archaeology at ULethbridge Archaeology is the study of past human cultures and societies through the analysis of material remains. It is the interpretation of these artifacts that help us understand our past, allowing us to learn more about ourselves today.

As an archaeology student, you will learn various aspects of archaeological interpretation and have the opportunity to put them into practice in the field and the laboratory. You will have the opportunity to combine the theoretical and methodological approaches of the discipline to give you a balanced and in-depth look at the subject.

In addition to the core courses of the program, you will expand your studies in areas such as anthropology, history, Indigenous studies, languages, religious studies, human geography, physical geography, geology, GIS and remote sensing. These courses and others will prepare you for the multidisciplinary nature of archaeology and geography.

The location of the University of Lethbridge offers an excellent centre for field-based research and teaching as it is situated in the coulees of the Oldman River, near the Rocky Mountains, surrounded by rangelands and areas of intense agricultural activity within a few hours of large urban centers. The department also hosts a rock and fossil collection, an aerial photograph collection, soil laboratory equipment and a teaching map collection.

Student Clubs & Activities. The archaeology student club organizes many activities throughout the year. Joining these clubs is a great way to meet other students with similar interests and have some extracurricular fun!

Archaeology Degrees. The Department of Geography & Environment offers a multidisciplinary major in archaeology for the 40-course Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a major in archaeology & geography for the 40-course Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree programs.

You can also opt for a general major in the social sciences or sciences and select an archaeology major as one of the three streams. In all geography-based programs, you can declare a concentration in GIS. •

Bachelor of Arts. Within the BA curriculum, you will explore archaeology from predominantly cultural and historical perspectives.

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Bachelor of Science. The BSc curriculum focuses on developing an in-depth understanding of the physical side of archaeology and geography.

Geographical Information Science. Archaeology & geography majors are encouraged to build on their knowledge with more advanced research methods in geographical information science (GIS). A notable area of strength at ULethbridge, GIS has become a growth area in research, teaching and employment for our graduates. These courses also benefit the study of archaeology and geography.

The department hosts a GIS/remote sensing lab for teaching and student projects, as well as dedicated research and graduate student areas — all containing high-end computers and the latest hardware and software.

Archaeology Courses. Course selections for the program will vary depending on your degree, but may include: • Materials Analysis • Human Geography • North American Archaeology • Physical Geography • Ancient Near East • Geographical Data & Analysis • Greece & Rome • Geographical Techniques • Geoarchaeology • Geographic Information Systems (GIS) • Field Excavation • Remote Sensing • Human Evolution Minors. Adding a minor to your degree is a great way to explore academic interests beyond your major. A minor is a set of courses comprising a secondary focus of interest. It is generally not related to your major. A minor may be required or optional. Minors are not available in all programs. Learn more at ulethbridge.ca/artsci/minors.

Honours Thesis. If your GPA is high enough in your fourth year, you can opt to complete an undergraduate thesis course. This is an excellent opportunity for you to earn an “Honours Thesis” designation on your degree.

Learn more about archaeology at ULethbridge, visit ulethbridge.ca/archaeology

Our Faculty & Their Research Faculty members conduct research that has local, national and international implications, such as archaeological excavations in Alberta, Europe and the Middle East, especially Israel. They often involve students in their research projects and field studies. These projects use state-of-the-art facilities and equipment and collaborate with other departments, community members and employers on research projects.

Research Opportunities. There is no better way to learn how to do field research than actually doing it! Every summer, students have the opportunity to participate in archaeological field schools in Canada and abroad. Be sure to check this out if you are ready for the experience of a lifetime. There are also opportunities for you to participate in laboratory work throughout the year.

Current Research & Areas of Interest: • Alberta Archaeology • Eastern Canadian Archaeology • Near Eastern Archaeology • Mediterranean Archaeology • Ancient Languages & Literature • Cultural Resource Management • Community Archaeology

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Excavation Methods Artifact Analysis Geoarchaeology Stratigraphic Analysis Remote Sensing & GIS Human & Environmental Change

Your Future Prospects Skills Acquired. In addition to developing exceptional communication skills, you will acquire critical and analytical problem-solving skills, research and information management skills and improve your attention to detail. You will leave the program with a strong ability to summarize research findings, excel in lab and fieldwork, as well as cultivating in-depth knowledge of the diversity of ancient cultures across the planet.

Graduate Studies. The University of Lethbridge’s School of Graduate Studies offers graduate programs at the Master and Doctoral levels, spanning over 60 disciplines — so why not consider pursuing grad school right here in Lethbridge! Whether you choose to do your advanced studies at ULethbridge or another institution, know that your undergraduate degree has set you on the path to post-graduate success.

Related Fields. Here are just a few of the options open to you once you’ve earned your degree: • Archaeological Assessment • Historic Resource Management Consultant • Cultural Resource Management • Conservator • Museum Curator • Exhibit Director • Museum Technician • Field Archaeologist • Parks or Historic Sites Interpreter

Professional Disciplines. Your undergraduate degree in archaeology provides an excellent foundation for law, journalism and education.

You may also gain employment at a number of museums and with archaeological consulting companies. All these opportunities give you the chance to get additional hands-on experience.

“My time at the ULethbridge has been an amazing experience. There are so many opportunities to learn about archaeology, including field schools, independent studies, etc.

Although it can be a heavy program to study, the knowledge gained in both inside and outside the classroom is valuable. My love and passion for archaeology just keeps growing!”

- Citlalmina, Archaeology & Geography (Co-op)

Break new ground in Archaeology.

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University of Lethbridge 4401 University Drive Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4 403-329-2225 archaeology@uleth.ca ulethbridge.ca/archaeology

Academic Advising M2102 Markin Hall 403-329-5106 artsci.advising@uleth.ca ulethbridge.ca/artsci/advising

Put Your Knowledge to Work Whether you’re looking for a more in-depth learning experience by assisting with research projects or by testing your knowledge in a real-life setting, we can help. Combined with your required coursework, the opportunities outlined below will provide you with a solid foundation for further studies and an excellent framework for a challenging and rewarding career — whatever direction you decide to go.

Applied Studies

Earn course credit for career-related paid, volunteer or community service work experience. This program is specially designed to allow you to integrate principles learned in the classroom in a practical work setting.

For more information, visit: ulethbridge.ca/appliedstudies

Co-operative Education (Co-op)

ULethbridge is proud to offer you the chance to participate in co-op. Co-op allows you to gain work experience directly related to your studies and make invaluable contacts in the workforce, all while earning a competitive salary.

Completion of the program allows you to receive a co-op designation on your degree and, most importantly, a kickstart to your career the minute you graduate.

For more information, visit: ulethbridge.ca/coop

Participate in Research

In addition to your regular courses, you can contribute to departmental research activities. For example, you can complete an independent study course or gain employment as a research assistant. If your GPA is high enough, you can also enrol in undergraduate thesis-based courses where research is a component of your studies.

Contact your department to learn more!

Academic Advising Your decision to explore a university education is the first step toward a great future — now let us help you navigate your degree options at ULethbridge and set you on the road to success. Do you have questions about what field of study best suits you? Would you like help with program and registration planning and just can’t find the answers? If so, you should speak to an academic advisor today — advisors have the answers to these questions and many more.

To learn more about the support services available to you through our academic advisors, visit: ulethbridge.ca/artsci/advising

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*This brochure should be used in conjunction with the University of Lethbridge calendar, which is the final authority regarding program requirements and academic regulations.