We shall talk about the various kinds of archaeology, how to become an archaeologist, and their duties in the article that follows. We’ll also look at the range of career options that archaeology in India provides for students.
The science of archeology examines human prehistory to determine the evolution of human civilizations. It include the excavation and recovery of artifacts such as cave paintings, ceramics, and architectural remains. It also includes studies aimed at elucidating how living organisms evolved. Finding some of the most significant discoveries in human history is the main goal of archaeology, and archaeologists play a crucial role in these discoveries.
Different Branches in Archeology
Archaeology, as previously said, is the study of determining the origins of human civilization via the examination of artifacts left by earlier societies. Although archaeology is much more than that, most people imagine archaeologists excavating the ground while surrounded by tools. It has a number of branches, some of which are mentioned below in order of prominence. Understanding these fields is crucial before choosing archaeology as a profession in India.
1. Historical Archaeology: This field focuses on finding and examining artifacts from ancient cultures, including jewelry, household utensils, medical or musical instruments, and other items used in daily life.
2. Maritime Archaeology: Some fascinating examples of maritime archaeology include archaeology jobs related to the discovery of sunken ships like the Titanic and the lost city of Thonis-Heracleion. It seeks to understand how prehistoric humans interacted with marine life.
3. Epigraphy : In order to make inferences about the writers, their culture, and the significance of the inscriptions on papers, artifacts, or stones, the field of epigraphy analyzes and identifies them. Obtaining a degree in archaeology allows candidates to pursue epigraphy as a profitable professional path.
4. Museology: It deals with museum curacy and museum organization, preservation, and restoration. Giving our existence purpose via the preservation and exhibition of historical artifacts is the main goal of this branch of archaeology. The way society interprets its past is via it.
What does an archeologist do?
Before we get into the topic of how to become an archaeologist, let’s take a moment to review the many tasks that archaeologists conduct in their coursework, internships, and real jobs.
i. Artifacts from excavation are identified, examined, and dated by an archeologist.
ii. They are in charge of documenting information about artifacts and other items discovered at a dig or study location.
iii. They use data analysis to draw rational judgments about significant facets of human society.
iv. They work with complex computer programs like computer-aided design (CAD) and geographical information systems (GIS) to create archeological simulations of what a site under investigation could have looked like in the past.
v. To find excavation locations, they strategically employ geophysical surveys and aerial photography.
vi. They compile information on their findings and write reports.
What to Study and Skills required to become an Archaeologist?
A bachelor’s degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, Geology, or History, and a master’s degree in Archaeology and Historical Studies are necessary to qualify and work as an Archaeologist. A Ph.D. offers better opportunities and higher pay, opening up avenues in areas of research, academics, and higher level positions in the Archaeological Survey of India. Selecting Humanities in Class 11 and 12 is advised in order to secure an archeology degree in the future. Subjects like history, anthropology, sociology, and geography, among others, provide a strong basis for a career in archaeology.
If a student wants to earn a degree in archaeology but does not have or did not want to major in the humanities, they can simply accomplish it. Since every college has distinct requirements, it is recommended to evaluate the eligibility and curriculum of the institutions.
Qualities to become a successful archaeologist
The desire to learn more, the need to preserve one’s origins, and a deep interest in one’s history and heritage are all necessary for archaeologists. In addition, an archaeologist should be perceptive, have a talent for research, pay close attention to details, and be resilient and patient.
Top Institutes Providing Courses in Archaeology
In India, employment as an archaeologist requires both a bachelor’s (BA) and master’s (MA) degree in archaeology. To work as an academician at universities or colleges, one must hold a Ph.D.
A few universities offering bachelor’s degrees in archaeology are as follows:
i. Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam
ii. Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi
iii. Maharaj Sayajirao University of Baroda
iv. The Delhi Institute of Heritage Research and Management, New Delhi
v. University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram
vi. Pandit Deendyal Upadhyaya Institute of Archaeology, Noida
vii. Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University
viii. University of Mysore
The majority of universities offer courses in everything from ancient history and heritage management to archaeology and museum studies.
Scope in India
As a result of powerful dynasties like the Mughals, Mauryas, Sultans, and others, India is home to some of the most well-planned ancient towns and historical sites. As a result, it gives archaeology students countless opportunities to obtain employment in the field. In addition to overseeing all archaeological operations conducted throughout the nation, the top organization, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), works to preserve and repair these historic sites.
The ASI employs a huge number of skilled archaeologists, epigraphists, conservators, and scientists to support its activities throughout its several departments, which include excavation, prehistory, underwater archaeology, museums, temple surveys, etc. Archaeologists are also heavily recruited by other institutions, including the National Museum, the Indian Council of Historical Research, private and public museums, and universities.
What are the Career Opportunities post obtaining an archeologist degree?
When it comes to comprehending the subtleties involved, archaeology as a career option frequently captivates pupils. Almost everyone is drawn to learning about our past, where we originated from, and how the world has changed over hundreds of years. The following is a list of some career options for archaeologists:
i. Deputy Superintendent Archaeologist: The Archeological Survey of India employs Deputy Superintendent Archaeologists who hold a Master’s degree in Archaeology, Indian History, Anthropology, Geology, or Language. Students who have pursued an MA in Archeology are recruited by ASI. To be considered for this position, candidates must pass a UPSC test. These positions pay between INR 15,600 to INR 39,100.
ii. Museum Preservation: To preserve and safeguard historical museum items, archaeologists can work in both public and private museums. The pay ranges from INR 20,000 to INR 40,000, based on experience and subject-matter expertise.
iii. Site Excavation and Preservation: Those with degrees in archaeology can also work on national and international programs that take them to important archeological sites. These initiatives to preserve, find, and decipher old items and records are supported by both domestic and foreign groups. The compensation varies according on the project’s size and level of investment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is archaeology salary?
The typical archaeologist’s basic pay is ₹3,53,162 annually. A property preservation professional typically makes ₹4,25,402 annually. An annual base pay of ₹4,85,643 is typical for a GIS professional. A professor of archaeology typically makes ₹7,82,643 a year.
2. How do I start archeology?
To work in the discipline of archaeology, one must have at least a four-year college degree (BA or BS). Archaeologists often major in either archaeology or anthropology. They are also trained in laboratory and field methods related to archaeology.
3. Is archaeology a good job?
Students can obtain good-paying jobs in a variety of archaeology-related fields. One of the highest-paying occupations after archaeology studies is that of an archaeologist or professor. After obtaining expertise in the field, an archaeologist can make between INR 5 LPA and INR 8 LPA.
Nishant is an Internationally Certified Career Coach, a Career Counsellor, an Education Consultant, a Soft Skills Trainer, and an ardent advocate of youth empowerment through personalized guidance, mentoring, and developmental interventions. He is also an International Economic Development and Business Consultant. Over the years, he has helped many students of different age groups and working professionals in discovering their true selves, setting appropriate career goals, and walking the right career paths.
Nishant is a mechanical engineering alumnus from R.V. College of Engineering, Bangalore. He has been widely featured in top media and also delivered talks at Cambridge University-UK and IIT-Guwahati among others. He has also delivered workshops at many reputed schools and colleges on various careers and skills-related topics.
