Archaeology

Interested in majoring or minoring in Archaeology?

The interdisciplinary major in archeology combines the faculty and resources of several departments to create a program of study in prehistoric, historic, and classical archaeology. The discipline is concerned with the recovery, analysis, and interpretation of the material remains of past cultures and societies. The topics of study pursued within the program can vary widely, ranging from issues of human origins and cultural evolution to the study of Classical Greece and Rome; from the structure of ancient Pueblo societies in the American Southwest to the study of colonial life in Virginia. The program provides majors with a knowledge of archaeological method and theory and a thorough grounding in specific cultural areas. There are approximately 20 archaeology majors in a given year. Many majors combine archaeology with a second major in a related field such as anthropology, history, art history, psychology, classics or biology depending upon their particular interests. Upon graduation many archaeology majors are admitted to graduate school in a specialized area of archaeological interest, while others pursue professional degrees in areas such as Law or Medicine. A number of our former students are employed by museums, or work in the areas of historic preservation, artifact conservation, and Cultural Resource.

If you would like to discuss the Archaeology major or minor, please contact the Program Director, Adria LaViolette.

Please submit your major or minor declaration using the new Declare a Major or Minor form on the College website. Instructions for logging in and accessing the form can be found at the above link. Be sure to select the correct major so that we receive your declaration. 

Once you have submitted your declaration, you can expect an email response from us in 5 business days during the Fall/Spring semester and within 10 business days at any other time. 

Having trouble using the form?  Email CollegeForms@virginia.edu with as much information as possible about your specific problem. 

Haven’t heard back from us? Apologies for any delays! If your declaration is still in progress but you haven’t received an email from us within the time frames mentioned above, feel free to email Adria LaViolette.