Archaeology is the scientific excavation and study of ancient human material remains for the purpose of learning about the culture and society of people who lived in the past. It can involve examining artefacts, buildings, graves, inscriptions, tools and other objects. To help them fathom what can appear to be a giant jigsaw puzzle, archaeologists use many new interpretive approaches and recovery techniques, as well as traditional tools and contemporary technologies such as satellite imagery. 

In this major, you’ll explore theories and trends that have shaped the history of archaeology, and undertake study in laboratories and out in the field. You’ll develop key research skills to identify and solve complex archaeological problems, and you’ll be able to show awareness and respect for contemporary cultural perspectives and cultural heritage practices. 

Key Features

• You’ll have an opportunity to practice your skills in Macquarie’s own on-campus archaeological dig pit and to join a dig overseas.  
• You’ll have access to our archaeological fieldwork lab, featuring 3D technologies that bring history and technology together. 
• You’ll develop transferable skills in critical analysis and communication as you build clear, coherent, evidence-based arguments relevant to archaeology, history and culture.  
• You’ll be introduced to museum practice and studies, enhancing your employability. 
• Our Museum of Ancient Cultures features more than 6000 artefacts, including the largest Egyptian papyrus collection in the Southern Hemisphere. You’ll develop your knowledge and skills, which will grow through hands-on training, research and publications. Through training in the museum, and participation in research and publications, you’ll have opportunities to develop your knowledge and skills. 
• Macquarie is ranked in the top five in Australia for arts and humanities (Best Global Universities, US News & World Report, 2018) and in the top 100 in the world (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2018). 
• Macquarie is ranked number one in Sydney for overall student experience and for teaching quality and learning resources in humanities, culture and social sciences (QILT, 2017).

• Archivist 
• Arts manager 
• Business manager 
• Choreographer 
• Communications officer 
• Criminologist 
• Entrepreneur 
• Historian 
• Human resources manager 
• Intelligence officer 
• International development adviser 
• Interpreter (after further study) 
• Journalist 
• Legal officer 
• Lobbyist 
• Marketing manager 
• Multimedia specialist 
• Museum officer 
• Project manager 
• Radio producer 
• Social change activist 
• Social/market researcher 
• Teacher (after further study) 
• Television/film producer 
• Translator (after further study) 
• Web/game developer 
• Writer
• Arts organisations 
• Banks 
• Community groups 
• Consultancies 
• Creative agencies 
• Cultural heritage organisations 
• Financial institutions 
• Government 
• Health services 
• Legal practice 
• Marketing agencies 
• Media agencies 
• Multinationals 
• Museums 
• Non-government organisations 
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• Regulatory bodies 
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• Universities