Updated on Aug 6, 2024 03:09 IST

Archaeology is the fundamental study of humanity and its past through findings and investigation. Archaeology courses teach about the human past, cultures, and historical significance through numerous historical locations, artefacts, excavation, discoveries, and data interpretation to develop a theory. Archaeology courses after the 12th grade are available in colleges across India at the undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctorate levels. Students who have scored 50 per cent aggregate marks can apply for these courses.

For admittance to Archeology courses in India, some colleges hold entrance tests like SAT, JMI Entrance Exam, IIMC Entrance Exam, JNUEE, AMU Entrance Exam, etc. Students can also pursue online and offline Archeology certification courses. Notably, Diploma and postgraduate diploma programmes in Archeology are short-term studies.

Popular online learning platforms such as Udemy, Coursera, Alison, and others provide archaeology courses ranging from basic to advanced levels. Enrolling in such courses has no requirements; students must have completed 10+2. The fees for different levels of courses range from INR 30,000 to INR 2 lakh. Students can continue reading to learn more about Archeology courses.

Archaeology Courses Highlights 2024

People study Archaeology, considered a sub-discipline of Anthropology, to know more about the past through skeletons, drawings, modes of communication, and remains of mankind and animals. Archaeology involves the investigation of material developed by humans since man first walked the earth. There are various specialisations in the field of Archaeology in which people can choose to make a career.

Given below is everything you need to know about the Archeology courses in terms of their eligibility criteria, required skillset, course curriculum, job prospects, and more.  

Particulars Details
Archaeology Course Levels UG, PG, Diploma, PG Diploma, Certificate, Doctoral
Archaeology Eligibility Criteria Merit+Entrance Based
Archaeology Entrance Exams CUET, CUET PG, UGC NET
Archaeology Average Fees INR 5,000 - INR 2 lakh
Archaeology Average Salary INR 2 lakh-5 lakh
Archaeology Job Profiles Exhibition In-charge, Professor, Heritage Manager, Museum Curator
Top Archaeology Colleges

Amity University, Noida, Loyola College, Chennai, Christ University, Bangalore, Miranda House, Delhi, etc.

Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

Quick Links Related to Archeology courses:

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Q:   What is Archeology all about?

A:

Archeology is the study of past cultures. The study of the ancient and recent human past through material remains is known as archaeology. Archaeology courses can be pursued by students after completing 10+2. Students can pursue various courses in Archeology at undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, certification, PG Diploma, and certificate levels. Moreover, students can also study online and offline certification courses in Archeology. 

Why Pursue Archaeology Courses?

There are several reasons why many candidates prefer to pursue Archaeology courses. Some of these are listed below:

  • Archaeology degree is a dynamic discipline that is continually changing as new research methodologies are developed. 
  • Diverse and hands-on Archeology is one of the most diverse academic subjects available at universities. It incorporates components from many other disciplines, including History, Geography, Politics, Chemistry, Biology, and Sociology.
  • Archaeology courses teach a wide range of skills that will prepare aspirants for a variety of vocations. Students will be able to work in archaeology-related professions like conservation and museums, as well as other industries like tourism.

Q:   What is the scope of Archeology?

A:

Archaeology is a multi-disciplinary Science integrating knowledge of geology, anthropology, history etc. Archaeologists study old monuments, inscriptions, excavation sites, etc. , delving into significant phases of human activity to study its influences on life. Archivists study documents for finding historical evidence. Scope: Archaeologists have long recognised the value of artistic representations of maritime scenes as a source of information. They can work in a multitude of organisations, undertaking a broad selection of tasks. Career options? In India archaeologists work in the Archaeological Survey of India, Department of the Ministry of External Affairs, Central Board of Dilm Censors, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Defence Services, Council of Cultural Relations, Indian Council of Historical Research, in its exploration, excavation, epigraphy, pre-history and museum branches. There are other various heritage bodies and some foreign universities and foundations that are involved in urban conservation or excavations.

Archaeology Courses Eligibility Criteria

Archaeology is a topic that invites people from a variety of academic and professional backgrounds because it benefits from a varied range of ideas and expertise. Students are required to meet the eligibility criteria which is set by universities. The eligibility criteria may differ from university to university, however, here are the common eligibility criteria set for a course in Archelogy.

Course Level Eligibility Criteria
Undergraduate  The candidates should have completed Class 12 from a recognised board with a minimum of 50 per cent marks.
Postgraduate They should have completed graduation with at least 50 per cent marks
Diploma They should have completed Class 12 with at least 50% marks.
PG Diploma Passed graduation or diploma in relevant field
Doctorate They should have completed a master's degree with at least 50% marks.
Certificate There are usually no eligibility criteria, however, some courses may require the candidate to have passed Class 12.

Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

Q:   Can I pursue Archeology course without studying History in Class 12?

A:

Yes, you can pursue Archaeology course without studying History in Class 12. A bachelor-level archaeology course can be pursued by candidates who have completed Class 12 in any stream. The course does not require you to have any previous knowledge on the subject. 

Q:   What is the eligibility criteria to pursue Ph.D in Archeology?

A:

If you wish to pursue PhD in Archeology then you should have completed a master's degree. Some colleges allow candidates from all academic backgrounds who have cleared the entrance exam. However, some colleges may allow only those candidates who have studies Archaeology. As per the lastest UGC guidelines, if you have completed a four-year bachelor's degree then you can pursue PhD in any field. You should clear UGC NET exam for that.

Types of Archaeology Courses

Archaeology is an interdisciplinary science that uses the study of artefacts, buildings, and cultural remnants to investigate human history. There are numerous academic levels at which archaeology courses are offered. The precise courses offered may differ based on the university or other establishment.

Universities and colleges offer various undergraduate, postgraduate, and diploma courses in the field of Archeology which are as follows:

Types of Archaeological Courses

Duration

BA in Ancient Indian Culture

3-Years

BA in Ancient Indian History and Archelogy

3-Years

BA in Archaeology and Museology

3-Years

MA in Archaeology

2-Years

MA in Museology

2-Years

MA History and Archaeology

2-Years

Postgraduate Diploma in Archelogy

1-Year

Q:   What is MA History and Archaeology course all about?

A:

MA History and Archaeology, also known as Master of Arts in History and Archaeology, is a postgraduate History degree programme. It is the study of recently documented times through material culture and literature. Students who have done their Bachelor of Arts degree or an equivalent qualification from a recognised university can apply for this course. They also need to have a minimum of 50% aggregate in their Bachelor's degree.

Q:   What is the eligibility criteria to pursue Ph.D in Archeology?

A:

If you wish to pursue PhD in Archeology then you should have completed a master's degree. Some colleges allow candidates from all academic backgrounds who have cleared the entrance exam. However, some colleges may allow only those candidates who have studies Archaeology. As per the lastest UGC guidelines, if you have completed a four-year bachelor's degree then you can pursue PhD in any field. You should clear UGC NET exam for that.

Archaeology Entrance Exams 2024

There are different entrance exams for admission to different academic levels of archaeology courses. CUET, CUET PG and UGC NET are national-level courses for admission to undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral level courses in India. These exams are conducted annually for admission to government and private colleges across India.

Given below are some entrance exams through which candidates can secure admission to Archaeology courses in India: 

Archaeology Courses Entrance Exams

Entrance Exam Schedule

Entrance Exam Dates

Common University Entrance Test (CUET)

May '25 (Tentative)

CUET Schedule

Common University Entrance Exam- Postgraduate(CUET PG)

Mar '25 (Tentative)

CUET PG Schedule

University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test(UGC NET)

18 Jun '24

UGC NET Schedule

Jun '24

CT SET 2024 Counselling Start

TENTATIVE

Jun '24

CT SET 2024 Result

TENTATIVE

12 Sep ' 24

Second Phase of Counselling Begins

9 Sep ' 24

Reporting to Respective Colleges

13 Feb ' 24 - 14 Mar ' 24

YCMOU March 2024 Exam

9 Apr ' 23 - 13 Apr ' 23

YCMOU June application form 2023 submission with ...

20 Sep ' 24

SAT Registration Deadline for October Test

24 Sep ' 24

SAT Deadline for Changes, Regular Cancellation, a...

Q:   What is the mode of the CUET PG exam?

A:

The CUET PG exam is conducted in computer-based test (CBT) mode. This means that the exam is taken on a computer, and the questions and answers are displayed on the screen. Candidates use a mouse or keyboard to select their answers.

The CUET PG exam is held in multiple sessions throughout the day, and candidates are assigned to a specific session during registration. The exam is two hours long and consists of 100 multiple-choice questions.

Q:   How to prepare for UGC NET?

A:

Preparing for the UGC NET exam requires a well-planned and structured study approach. Here are some tips that can help you prepare for the UGC NET exam:

a) Understand the syllabus: The first step in preparing for the UGC NET exam is to understand the syllabus and exam pattern. Go through the syllabus thoroughly and make a study plan accordingly.

B) Follow a structured study plan: Make a study plan that covers all the topics and subtopics in the syllabus. Allocate sufficient time for each topic and subtopic, and ensure that you cover all the important concepts.

C) Use standard study materials: Use standard study materials and books recommended by experts and previous-year toppers. This will help you get a better understanding of the concepts and topics covered in the exam.

D) Solve previous year's papers: Solving previous year's question papers and mock tests will help you understand the exam pattern and the types of questions asked in the exam. It will also help you identify your strengths and weaknesses and work on them accordingly.

E) Practice time management: Time management is crucial in the UGC NET exam, as you have to complete both papers in a limited time. Practice time management by solving mock tests and previous year's papers within the given time frame.

F) Stay updated with Current Affairs: Stay updated with Current Affairs and developments in your field of study, as questions related to Current Affairs and recent developments are often asked in the exam.

G) Take breaks and stay healthy: Taking regular breaks and staying healthy is important for effective preparation. Ensure that you take regular breaks, get enough sleep, and maintain a healthy diet. In summary, preparing for the UGC NET exam requires a well-planned and structured study approach. By following these tips, you can prepare effectively for the exam and increase your chances of qualifying.

Archaeology Syllabus and Subjects

Archaeology is a dynamic discipline that is continually changing as new research methodologies are developed. Studying Archaeology will inculcate a deep understanding of history and humanity among the students. The common syllabus for BA in Indian History and Archeology is as follows:

Archaeology Subjects for First Year
Introduction to Ancient History Introduction to Archaeology Culture and Archaeology
Prep and Proto History of India World Prehistory Archaeological Field Techniques
Archaeology Subjects for Second Year
Archaeological Methods and Techniques Ancient Civilizations Archaeological Dating Methods
Archaeological Theory

Political and Cultural History of North India (From Vedic to Mauryas Time)

Political and Cultural History of North India (From Times of Sunga to the end of Kushana Period)

Archaeology Subjects for Third Year

Political and Cultural History of South India

History of Sciences in Ancient India

Political and Cultural History of North India of Post Gupta Period

Bioarchaeology Regional Archaeology Archaeological Ethics and Cultural Resource Management

What are the specialisations in Archaeology?

Archaeologists can look deeply into specific aspects of human history and cultural heritage thanks to these specialisations. People may decide to specialise in one or more of these categories, depending on the place, era, or kind of archaeological site of interest.

Candidates can check the table to know about Archaeology specialisations:

Specialisations in Archaeology

Ethno- Archaeology

Environmental Archaeology

Battlefield Archaeology

Zooarchaeology

Experimental Archaeology

Urban Archaeology

Marine Archaeology

Arc-Botany

Geo-Archaeology

Popular Specializations

Q:   What are the popular specialisations in Archeology?

A:

Archeology is a subfield of Anthropology,  and there are several specialisations available. The type of archaeologist you become is determined by the field you chose. Popular specialisations in Archaeology are Ethno- Archeology, Environmental Archaeology, Battlefield Archeology, Zooarchaeology, Experimental Archaeology, Urban Archaeology, Marine Archaeology, Arc-Botany and Geo-Archaeology.

Q:   What is Environmental Archaeology?

A:

Environmental Archaeology is subfiled of Archaeology that involves studying about the interaction between past humans and the nature. Its primary focus is on studying how past cultures and empires have impacted the environment. Environmental Archaeology can be further classified into geoarchaelogy and bioarcheology on the basis of subject scope.

Best Archeology Course Colleges

Several government and private colleges in India offer courses involving the study of Archeology. Archaeology is usually studied in Arts colleges.

Best Archaeology Private Colleges

Some of the popular private colleges offering Archeology courses are listed below in the table:

Archaeology Private Colleges Archaeology Private College Fees (in INR)
Delhi Institute of Heritage Research and Management 46,400
K J Somaiya Institute of Dharma Studies 15,000 - 80,000
Shri Krishna University, Chattarpur -----
Sri Sai Correspondence College, Bangalore -----
St. Xavier's College, Mumbai 72,500

Best Archaeology Government Colleges

Some of the popular government colleges offering Archeology courses are listed below in the table:

Archaeology Government Colleges Archaeology Government College Fees (in INR)
University of Lucknow 18,000
BHU, Varanasi 9,500 to 20,000
University of Madras 3,000 to 68,000
MSU, Vadodara -----
Kerala University 2,600
Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University 1.9 lakh
Panjab University, Chandigarh 23,500
University of Mysore 4,800

Note: This information is sourced from the official website of the institute.

Relevant Link Related to Archeology:

Top Archeology Colleges 

Archaeology Online Courses

Several online course providers offer Archaeology courses. These courses are flexible and convenient for students enabling them to pursue courses offered by renowned international institutes across the globe. 

Given below are some Archaeological courses offered by various global universities that can be pursued by Indian students:

Archaeology Online Courses

Offered By

Course Duration

Course Fee (in INR)

Online M.A. in History and Archaeology

Kuvempu University

2 years

63,250

Graduate Certificate of Ancient History

Macquarie University

6 months

9.81 Lakh

Introduction to Archaeology: Archaeology as Activism

Rice University

15 hours

Free

Introduction to Archaeology: Archaeology as Science

Rice University

18 hours

Free

The Changing Landscape of Ancient Rome. Archaeology and History

Sapienza University of Rome

8 hours

Free

Roman Art and Archaeology

University of Arizona

23 hours

Free

Pyramids of Giza: Ancient Egyptian Art and Archaeology

Harvard University

8 weeks

Free

Note: The fees mentioned above may vary depending on the course provider.

2.4 K - 12 K
9.2 LPA
1 Course
3.36 K
3.1 LPA
2 Courses
5.16 K - 20 K
8 LPA
3 K - 68 K
1 Course
4.5
2.8 LPA
1 Course
72.5 K
5.5 LPA

#8 The Week

Q:   Which colleges offer Archaeology courses with a low fee structure?

A:

College fees is an important facor that is usually considered during admission to Archaeology courses. Here are some colleges that offer Archaeology courses with an affordable fee structure:

Archaeology Colleges

Average Fees (in INR)

Calcutta University of Culture - UUC Odisha

1.2 K

Central University of Haryana

2 K

UNIRAJ - University of Rajasthan

2.19 K

Calcutta University

2.4 K - 12 K

Visva Bharati University

2.4 K - 2.52 K

Popular Private Archaeology Colleges in India

2.4 K - 12 K
9.2 LPA
1 Course
3.36 K
3.1 LPA
2 Courses
5.16 K - 20 K
8 LPA
3 K - 68 K
1 Course
4.5
2.8 LPA
1 Course
72.5 K
5.5 LPA

#8 The Week

Archeology Course Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters

Archaeology courses serve as a gateway to academic and research-based career options. 

Archaeology Course Job Profiles

Given below are some job profiles that can be pursued by candidates who have studied Archeology:

Archaeology Jobs

Average Salary (in INR) 

Field Archaeologist

6 LPA

Archive Assistant

3.2 LPA - 5 LPA

Teacher

2.8 LPA

Professor

7 LPA

Excavator Operator

1.2 LPA

Note: The salaries mentioned above may vary depending on the organisation offering the job.

Archaeology Course Recruiting Sectors

There are a variety of career opportunities one can take up after pursuing a UG or PG programme in Archaeology. According to the skills and which specialisation you have worked on, there are various opportunities which one can take up. The need for professional archaeologists is needed as there are not many people who opt for a course in Archaeology. Here are some areas one can work:

Job opportunities for Archaeology Candidates

Teaching

Museum

Research

Consultant

Expert

Investigator

Conservation Officer

Documentation Specialist

Archaeology Courses Abroad for Indian Students

Indian students can pursue Archaeology courses outside India in various developed nations. Many global institutes offer Arts courses with Archaeology as a specialisation. 

Given below are some Archaeology courses offered by various reputed universities abroad that can be pursued by Indian students:

Archaeology Courses Abroad

Course Provider

Course Duration

Course Fee (in INR)

MA in Archaeology

The University of Liverpool, Liverpool

1 year

23.68 Lakh

Archaeology (M.A.)

Cornell University, Ithaca

1 - 2 years

17.35 Lakh

BA Archaeology and Anthropology

Oxford University, Oxford

3 years

37.08 Lakh

MA in Advanced Studies in Archaeology

University of Barcelona, Barcelona

1 year

4.40 Lakh

BA Archaeology & Ancient History and History

University of Birmingham, Birmingham

3 years

20.87 Lakh

Note: The fees mentioned above may vary depending on the course provider.

Q:   What are the career prospects after Archeology course?

A:
Hi Khyati, There are three main areas of employment for an Archaeologist, i.e., teaching, research and working in museums. Research jobs are available in organizations like Archaeological Survey of India, the Planning Commission as well as international organizations like the United Nation's UNESCO or UNICEF also require their services. Moreover, openings are also available for socio-cultural Archaeologists with Non Governmental Organizations (NGOs) who seek their expertise in understanding of relations between industry and society. Cultural Archaeologists are particularly well suited to work in professions involving people, such as teaching, law, medicine, social work, and journalism. Archaeology majors may become cultural resource management specialists. Museums are yet another potent source of employment. Many organizations like the ICMR, WHO and the Police Department also offer employment to Archaeologists for the purpose of crime detection. A section of the students may possibly opt for archaeologically oriented research to provide better service delivery or to assess social issues and social problems, such as in public health, education, urban planning, social welfare, and government planning, international development. Hope it helps. Please feel free to revert. Click on the thumbs up or mark it as the best, if you found this useful. Wish You Luck!

Q:   What does an Archeologist do?

A:

Archeologists find, conserve, organise, and store historical artifacts discovered in the field. Their study is to unearth elements of the past in order to better comprehend how previous societies lived and grew. An archaeologist can specialise in any historical period, from recent years to ancient civilisations.

A career as an Archaeologist allows you to be a part of some of the most important discoveries in human history, allowing people to better understand where they came from. Read More: Career in Archaeology

Popular Archaeology UG Courses

Following are the most popular Archaeology UG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these UG Courses by clicking the links below.

UG Courses

Archeology Course FAQs: 2024

Here are some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) related to Archeology courses:

Q:   What is the admission process to apply for Archaeology courses?

A:

Candidates can check the below given procedure to know about Archaeology admission process:

Chose University/College: The first step is to search for colleges or universities which are offering courses in Archaeology. Check the fees, the seats offered eligibility criteria which is set for the course.

Apply for Course: Proceed to apply for admission after getting to know the university offering the programme. Fill up the details as required and pay the application fee. The application forms are available for a limited period of time so the candidate is advised to know the details way in advance.

Mode of Admission: Universities and Colleges will either conduct entrance exams for admission or offer admission through merit. For postgraduate courses, the candidate will have to appear for an entrance exam.

Results: Selected and qualified candidates make the merit list. The student has to get the desired rank and percentage, to be eligible for admission.

Counselling: The candidate will have to appear for the counselling session conducted at the university to book their seat, submit their documents and pay the fees to seal admission.

Popular Archaeology PG Courses

Following are the most popular Archaeology PG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these PG Courses by clicking the links below.

PG Courses

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Write here...

Answered a month ago

College fees is an important facor that is usually considered during admission to Archaeology courses. Here are some colleges that offer Archaeology courses with an affordable fee structure:

Archaeology Colleges

Average Fees (in INR)

Calcutta University of Culture - UUC Odisha

1.2 K

Central University of Haryana

2 K

UNIRAJ - University of Rajasthan

2.19 K

Calcutta University

2.4 K - 12 K

Visva Bharati University

2.4 K - 2.52 K

K

Keerthana Sundara Vadivel

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

Environmental Archaeology is subfiled of Archaeology that involves studying about the interaction between past humans and the nature. Its primary focus is on studying how past cultures and empires have impacted the environment. Environmental Archaeology can be further classified into geoarchaelogy a

...more

K

Keerthana Sundara Vadivel

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

Archeologists find, conserve, organise, and store historical artifacts discovered in the field. Their study is to unearth elements of the past in order to better comprehend how previous societies lived and grew. An archaeologist can specialise in any historical period, from recent years to ancient c

...more

K

Keerthana Sundara Vadivel

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

Candidates can check the below given procedure to know about Archaeology admission process:

Chose University/College: The first step is to search for colleges or universities which are offering courses in Archaeology. Check the fees, the seats offered eligibility criteria which is set for the course.

...more

K

Keerthana Sundara Vadivel

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

MA History and Archaeology, also known as Master of Arts in History and Archaeology, is a postgraduate History degree programme. It is the study of recently documented times through material culture and literature. Students who have done their Bachelor of Arts degree or an equivalent qualification f

...more

K

Keerthana Sundara Vadivel

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

If you wish to pursue PhD in Archeology then you should have completed a master's degree. Some colleges allow candidates from all academic backgrounds who have cleared the entrance exam. However, some colleges may allow only those candidates who have studies Archaeology. As per the lastest UGC guide

...more

K

Keerthana Sundara Vadivel

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

Yes, you can pursue Archaeology course without studying History in Class 12. A bachelor-level archaeology course can be pursued by candidates who have completed Class 12 in any stream. The course does not require you to have any previous knowledge on the subject. 

K

Keerthana Sundara Vadivel

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

Archeology is a subfield of Anthropology,  and there are several specialisations available. The type of archaeologist you become is determined by the field you chose. Popular specialisations in Archaeology are Ethno- Archeology, Environmental Archaeology, Battlefield Archeology, Zooarchaeology, Expe

...more

K

Keerthana Sundara Vadivel

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

Archeology is the study of past cultures. The study of the ancient and recent human past through material remains is known as archaeology. Archaeology courses can be pursued by students after completing 10+2. Students can pursue various courses in Archeology at undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma,

...more

K

Keerthana Sundara Vadivel

Contributor-Level 10

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