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Archaeology and the Ancient World
The Bachelor of Arts in Archaeology and the Ancient World at Brown University offers a four-year, full-time, on-campus academic journey into the material remains, cultural practices, and historical narratives of ancient civilizations. This interdisciplinary program combines archaeology, art history, anthropology, and historical research to build a nuanced understanding of human life in antiquity. Students investigate how societies formed, interacted, and evolved by examining artifacts, architecture, burial practices, and urban structures, gaining insights into the daily lives, beliefs, and social structures of the past. With its emphasis on critical interpretation, the program enables students to explore the broader implications of how we construct history from material evidence.
Fieldwork plays a central role, allowing students to participate in excavations and hands-on analysis of ancient objects both locally and abroad. The curriculum encourages engagement with ethical questions about cultural heritage, preservation, and the politics of the past. Students benefit from Brown’s resources, including access to museums, collections, and research labs, as well as opportunities for individualized research and collaborative learning. Whether studying the classical Mediterranean, the Near East, or other ancient regions, students learn to ask sophisticated questions about how ancient narratives are written, remembered, and reinterpreted in contemporary contexts.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Archaeology and the Ancient World
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: Brown University, United States
- Field of Study: Archaeology
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Introduction to the Ancient World
- Introduction to Archaeology
- Art and Architecture of the Ancient Mediterranean
- First-Year Seminar: Ancient Cities
- Elective: Anthropology or Classics
Year 2 – Methods and Regional Perspectives
- Archaeological Field Methods
- The Archaeology of Mesopotamia, Egypt, or Greece
- Material Culture and Society
- Elective: Ancient Languages or History
Year 3 – Thematic Studies and Interpretation
- Archaeology and Empire
- Gender in the Ancient World
- Seminar: Ethics and Cultural Heritage
- Study Abroad or Field Research
Year 4 – Integration and Independent Research
- Capstone Project or Senior Thesis
- Seminar: Interpreting the Ancient Past
- Advanced Course in Archaeological Theory
- Elective: Museum Studies or Digital Archaeology
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program develop analytical thinking, historical sensitivity, and hands-on research skills that are highly valuable in a range of careers. Many pursue roles in museums, cultural heritage organizations, or archaeological research institutions, working as curators, conservation assistants, or field archaeologists. Others move into education, public history, or publishing, bringing their knowledge of ancient worlds to wider audiences. Some pursue graduate study in archaeology, anthropology, or history, while others apply their skills in sectors such as government, nonprofits, or international development, where understanding of cultural context and ethical research practices is crucial. This degree fosters both intellectual depth and practical experience, preparing students to think critically, communicate clearly, and navigate complex cultural questions.
Why Choose This Program
This program offers a distinctive blend of academic rigor, field experience, and interdisciplinary exploration, making it ideal for students passionate about understanding the past through its material traces. At Brown, students enjoy a collaborative learning environment and flexible curriculum that supports individual curiosity and research goals. With access to faculty experts, excavation opportunities, and on-campus collections, students can actively engage with both theory and practice. The program’s global scope and ethical focus prepare students to think beyond textbooks and embrace archaeology as a dynamic field that shapes how societies understand themselves. For those drawn to ancient cultures, human origins, and the legacies of the past, this program delivers the depth, perspective, and tools needed for meaningful academic and professional development.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 401 863 1000
Email: admissions@brown.edu
Address: University of Brown, Providence, RI 02912, United States
