Archaeologist

Most professional archaeologists have a degree and many also have a postgraduate qualification.

You can do a degree in archaeology or a related subject, like:

• environmental archaeology
• human evolution
• archaeological science
• ancient history
• conservation and cultural heritage

You can search for higher education archaeology courses on British Archaeological Jobs and Resources.

After completing a first degree, you could take a postgraduate course and specialise in a particular field. 

Examples include:

• osteoarchaeology - studying human remains
• marine archaeology - investigating coastal and underwater sites
• digital archaeology - creating visualisations of ruins and finds

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• student finance for fees and living costs
• university courses and entry requirements

You could apply to do an Archaeological Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship, with an archaeological consultancy, university department or heritage organisation. This could lead to a position like archaeological site assistant or finds technician.

With further training, you could become a professional archaeologist.

You could also complete an Archaeological Specialist Level 7 Postgraduate Degree Apprenticeship.

The degree apprenticeship typically takes 3 years to complete and combines learning on-the-job with university study.

Employers will assess your skills, experience and qualifications when you apply, and usually require a relevant first degree.

Entry requirements

Employers will set their own entry requirements.

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• guide to apprenticeships

Competition for courses and jobs is very strong. It's essential that you get practical experience.

Local and regional archaeological associations run volunteer fieldwork programmes for all age groups.

These offer you the chance to get hands-on experience, doing tasks like:

• site surveys
• excavations
• recording finds

You can find volunteering opportunities through the Council for British Archaeology.

Career tips

There are a lot of different specialisms in archaeology and skills you have from another career can be useful, for example:

• computer-aided design (CAD)
• illustration
• photography
• geographical information systems (GIS)

Professional and industry bodies

You can join the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists for professional development training and networking opportunities.

Further information

You'll find more details about how to become an archaeologist from the:

• Council for British Archaeology
• Chartered Institute for Archaeologists