Humanities & Social Sciences

Most of the universities in India that have a department of archaeology offer this subject at the post-graduation level and beyond it. In this regard, the first step towards becoming a successful archaeologist is to obtain a graduate degree. This could be in any discipline. However, it is preferable to have a Bachelor's degree in history, sociology, or anthropology for a better understanding of the concepts of archaeology. Further, it is advisable to check with the concerned university what all Bachelor's degrees are acceptable for taking up a postgraduate course in archaeology.
However, universities like the Maharaj Sayajirao University of Baroda, offers a 3-years Bachelor's degree in Indian History, Culture and Archaeology. Similarly, the Banaras Hindu University offers two undergraduate courses in this field: a three years honors programme in Ancient Indian History, Culture and Archaeology and a three-years vocational programme in museology and archaeology.
The Institute of Archaeology under the aegis of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), New Delhi, conducts a two-year Post Graduate Diploma in Archaeology. The eligibility of entry to this program includes a Master's degree in Ancient or Medieval Indian History, Anthropology, or Archaeology from a recognized university. Students holding a Master's degree in classical languages or geology can also apply for this programme. This course is divided into four semesters and the curriculum of this course is as follows:
Paper - I Principles and Methods of Archaeology
Paper - II Application of Science in Archaeology
Paper - III Prehistory
Paper - IV Protohistory
Paper - V Historical Archaeology
Paper - VI Art and Iconography
Paper - VII Architecture
Paper - VIII Epigraphy and Numismatics
Paper - IX Museology
Paper - X Structural Conservation of Monuments
Paper - XI Chemical Preservation of Monuments and Antiquities
Paper - XII Antiquarian Laws
Practical Test:
The practical test in itself comprises of the following sections: Surveying, Drawing, Photography, Modelling, Exploration & Excavation, Chemical Conservation, Computer Application, Viva-voce, General observations, Tutorials, and a Dissertation.
After completing the post graduation level, candidates can opt for higher studies. They can either go for a doctorate degree or take up lectureship in a university after qualifying the norms laid down by the University Grants Commission (UGC) in this regard.