ARCHAEOLOGY

Archaeology as the career option has unfortunately failed to attract many students in the recent times, especially when archaeology as a subject has always been very interesting as it involves finding new things of historical significance. It is also the subject through which one can know about the past and thus help preserve our culture and heritage for the future.

But this calls for an increased need for specialists in the field of archaeology. These specialists delve into the past and interpret earlier civilizations. Archeologists also devise means of preserving and maintaining existing monuments and other objects

of historical importance. Besides, he/she needs to be conversant with the social and cultural influences, art and architecture of regions, and the geophysical conditions in order to conduct archaeological research.

Eligibility

To do a BA in archaeology, the candidate is required to have history as a subject in his/her 10+2. But to pursue an MA in archaeology, the minimum qualification required is a BA in archaeology or related fields.

The duration of the post-graduate diploma in archaeology and an MA in archaeology is two years. The BA in archaeology is a three-year programme.

For example, Candidates aspiring to pursue a postgraduate diploma in archaeology from the Institute of Archeology in Delhi, needs to have a Masters degree in ancient or medieval Indian history or an MA / M.Sc. with archaeology or anthropology.

A written exam followed by an interview shall be conducted on the basis of which the candidate would be finally selected.

Job Prospects

To enter into this field an individual should have a strong background of ancient history and culture. Prior to getting a job, students have to spend half the period in the field, training in excavation and exploration, conservation and study of monuments and also in surveying, drawing and photography.

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) employs a large number of people. An individual can be the curators of any museum(there are hordes of them all over the country). Then one can also choose to do conservation, i.e. involving in the protection and maintenance of historical sites and monuments. Institutions devoted to higher education and research also provide ample employment opportunities. Private collectors also require the services of archaeologists chiefly to take care of their antiques, icons, curios and coins, besides gems and jewellery of historical importance.

COURSE	INSTITUTION	ELIGIBILITY	DURATION
B. A. Archaeology	MS University of Baroda	10+2	3 Years
M. A. Archaeology	MS University of Baroda	B. A.	2 Years
M. A. Archaeology	University of Kolkata	B. A.	2 Years
M. A. Archaeology	Gujarat University, Ahmedabad	B. A. (2nd class)	2 Years
M. A. Archaeology	HNB Garhwal University, Srinagar	B. A.	2 Years
M. A. Archaeology	University of Poona, Poona	B. A.	2 Years
M. A. Archaeology & Ancient History	University of Mysore, Crawford Hall, Mysore	B. A.	2 Years