Archaeology : Job options

Jobs directly related to your degree

• Archaeologist - examines ancient sites and objects to learn about the past. Excavations, commonly called ‘digs’, are only part of an archaeologist’s work, which also includes recording, analysing and interpreting archaeological remains.
• Historic buildings inspector/conservation officer - helps to protect and enhance historic buildings, including houses, churches, windmills, lighthouses and factories. They report and advise on buildings and areas of special historic or architectural interest for their preservation, conservation, care and curatorship.
• Museum/gallery curator - acquires, cares for, develops, displays and interprets a collection of artefacts or works of art in order to inform, educate and entertain the public.
• Museum education officer - works in museums, galleries and other cultural and heritage sites to ensure that children and other visitors get the best educational experience from their visit. They may work with classes, groups or individuals, run workshops, deliver talks or run demonstrations.

Jobs where your degree would be useful

• Higher education lecturer - facilitates learning and carries out research activities in universities and some colleges of further education (FE). They teach academic or vocational subjects to undergraduate and postgraduate students aged 18 upwards, using methods including lectures, seminars, tutorials, practical laboratory demonstrations, and field work.
• Adult education lecturer - teaches a very wide range of subjects and skills. It is difficult to define 'adult education' precisely, either in terms of who is being taught or where, but typically it involves those in the over-18 age group choosing to study part time. Adult education tutors frequently work on part-time contracts, often for several employers, in subjects ranging from art appreciation to languages, IT skills and, increasingly, skills for life.
• Tourism officer - develops and promotes tourism in order to attract visitors and produce significant economic benefits for a particular region or site. Tourism officers often work for local authorities, but may also work within private companies or other public sector agencies.
• Archivist - acquires, manages and maintains documents and other materials that have historical importance for individuals, organisations and nations. Archivists have an important role as guardians of the memories and records that shape the identity of different groups and societies.
• Cartographer - involved with the scientific, technological and artistic aspects of developing and producing maps and cartographic information. Cartographers present complex information as diagrams, charts and spreadsheets, as well as in the form of conventional maps. Geographical information systems (GIS) and digital-mapping techniques now dominate the role.

Other options

Relevant work experience will enable you to demonstrate a commitment and a genuine interest in becoming a professional archaeologist. Consider volunteering as a digger or check out opportunities with local museums and galleries, The National Trust  and heritage organisations. Volunteer work will also introduce you to the demands of working outdoors in all weather conditions, and it is worth considering other opportunities that will enable you to demonstrate your physical fitness and resilience.

Work experience is often required for entry into many archaeology-related career options and voluntary work with a relevant organisation will not only develop your skills but help build up a network of useful contacts

Although some of the jobs listed here might not be first jobs for many graduates, they are among the many realistic possibilities with your degree, provided you can demonstrate you have the attributes employers are looking for. Bear in mind that it’s not just your degree discipline that determines your options. Remember that many graduate vacancies don't specify particular degree disciplines, so don't restrict your thinking to the jobs listed here. Look at your degree... what next? for informed advice on career planning and graduate employment, or login/register with My Prospects to find out what jobs would suit you, a helpful starting point for self-analysis.

Explore types of jobs to find out more about the above options and related jobs.