Archeology involves studying the past by examining physical remnants and drawing conclusions. The field involves plenty of detective work, as archaeologists often work with worn out and damaged relics and incomplete records of past civilizations. Many of the relics are uncovered during archaeological excavations. Excavations involve teams of archaeologists digging into the ground and searching for clues about past activity. Archeology builds on and draws upon knowledge in other fields, such as anthropology and history.

What kind of people are best suited for roles in archeology?

If you like solving puzzles and investigating mysteries, your interests would grow in a career in archaeology. Archaeologists also tend to visit different sites around the world, so you'll also need to be willing to travel. Not all archaeologists spend their days digging at excavation sites, but you should be comfortable working with your hands. A passion for history and culture is essential.

What career opportunities can arise from learning about archeology?

Learning about archaeology will prepare you for a career in cultural resource management. This may involve excavating a site or conducting research in a laboratory setting and analyzing artifacts. You can also take on an educational role at a museum or historic site, where you'll act as a tour guide for the public. Archaeologists also find work in academia, where they share their knowledge of history with students.

How can online courses help me learn about archeology?

Online courses can introduce you to archaeological findings from around the world as well as archaeological techniques. For example, a course on osteoarchaeology can show you how archaeologists use skeletal remains to draw conclusions about past events and ancient lifestyles. A course on heritage management can introduce you to ways in which institutions handle cultural items. Instructors will make all of the course material available online. This flexibility gives you the opportunity to work through the lessons at a pace that's convenient for you.

Best Archeology Courses & Certificates [2025]

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Rice University

Introduction to Archaeology

Skills you'll gain: Ancient History, Timelines, Social Justice, Anthropology, Scientific Methods, World History, Social Sciences, Liberal Arts, Sustainable Development, Peer Review, Environment, Case Studies, General Science and Research, Community Development, Climate Change Programs, Spatial Analysis, Research, Cultural Sensitivity, Science and Research, Data Analysis

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Politecnico di Milano

Archaeoastronomy

Skills you'll gain: Ancient History, Architectural Design, Civil and Architectural Engineering, Social Studies, Architecture and Construction, World History, Physical Science, Cultural Diversity

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University of Pennsylvania

Introduction to Ancient Egypt and Its Civilization

Skills you'll gain: Ancient History, Art History, Anthropology, Social Studies, Timelines, World History, Cultural Diversity, Research Methodologies, Investigation, Storytelling

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Rice University

Introduction to Archaeology: Knowing The Past

Skills you'll gain: Ancient History, Anthropology, Scientific Methods, Peer Review, Social Sciences, Research, Science and Research, World History, Culture, Research Methodologies, Cultural Diversity

Status: Preview

Nanyang Technological University, Singapore

Introduction to Forensic Science

Skills you'll gain: Criminal Investigation and Forensics, Scientific Methods, Chemistry, Investigation, Case Studies, Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Pharmacology, Laboratory Testing, Hematology, Pathology, Molecular Biology

Status: Preview

Sapienza University of Rome

Recovering the Humankind's Past and Saving the Universal Heritage

Skills you'll gain: Ancient History, 3D Modeling, Public History, Scientific Methods, Data Sharing, Anthropology, Investigation, Cultural Diversity, Case Studies, Art History, Research, Data Management, Data Collection