Archaeology
The Archaeology Master of Arts program at Cornell University offers a comprehensive and research focused academic environment for students who want to explore human history through material culture, excavation methods, and interdisciplinary interpretation. The curriculum integrates archaeological theory, scientific analysis, and field based research, allowing learners to examine how past societies lived, organized their environments, and expressed cultural identity. With a strong emphasis on archaeological research, students build the analytical tools needed to interpret artifacts, study ancient landscapes, and evaluate long term patterns in human behavior. This approach strengthens their ability to understand cultural development and historical change across diverse regions and time periods.
Throughout this one year program, students work closely with faculty whose expertise spans archaeology, anthropology, geosciences, and museum studies. The academic structure incorporates laboratory work, field methods, material analysis, and theoretical seminars, helping learners develop deep competence in material analysis, spatial interpretation, and scientific documentation. By engaging in interdisciplinary study and research guided practice, students learn to connect archaeological evidence with historical questions, environmental processes, and cultural dynamics. This integrated framework prepares graduates to contribute meaningful insights to archaeological scholarship and heritage related initiatives.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Archaeology
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 January 2026
- Location: Cornell University, United States
- Field of Study: Archaeology
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1
• Archaeological Theory and Interpretation
• Material Culture and Artifact Analysis
• Field Methods in Archaeology
• Elective in Anthropology, Classics, or Environmental Studies
Semester 2
• Archaeological Science and Laboratory Techniques
• Ancient Landscapes and Spatial Analysis
• Research Project in Archaeology
• Elective in Cultural Heritage, Digital Archaeology, or Bioarchaeology
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program pursue roles across cultural resource management, museums, research institutions, and heritage conservation, frequently joining archaeological field organizations, museum research units, cultural heritage agencies, and environmental consulting firms. With strong training in excavation techniques, artifact interpretation, and scientific analysis, they contribute to excavation projects, cataloging efforts, conservation initiatives, and historical interpretation. Their interdisciplinary preparation enables them to support cultural resource assessments, participate in heritage preservation programs, and assist in academic research that expands understanding of human history and cultural evolution.
Why Choose This Program
This program is an excellent choice for students who want to combine scientific methods with cultural interpretation, offering opportunities to develop advanced archaeological insight and strong analytical skills supported by Cornell’s multidisciplinary research environment. Through fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and theoretical study, learners gain the ability to interpret material evidence, assess cultural change, and contribute to preservation and research efforts. Its focused one year structure provides both depth and practical experience, preparing graduates for meaningful roles in archaeology, cultural heritage, and historical research.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 607 255 2000
Email: admissions@cornell.edu
Address: Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States
