Best universities for archaeology?

Hi guys! I'm a junior who's really passionate about archaeology and want to major in it when I go to college. Can anyone recommend the top universities in the US for archaeology programs? What should I look for in a strong archaeology program?

Hi there! It's great that you're passionate about archaeology and want to major in it for college. I can certainly help you with some top universities in the US for archaeology programs. Some of the universities known for their strong archaeology programs include:

1. University of California, Berkeley

2. Harvard University

3. University of Pennsylvania

4. Yale University

5. Brown University

6. University of Chicago

7. University of Michigan

8. University of Arizona

When looking for a strong archaeology program, you should consider the following factors:

1. Faculty and research interests: Look for programs with experienced faculty who are experts in your specific areas of interest within archaeology. A strong department will have a diverse range of faculty specializations that align with your interests.

2. Research opportunities (fieldwork or lab work): A good archaeology program should offer hands-on experience through research projects, field schools, or laboratory work. Seek out programs that invest in these learning experiences because they'll help develop your practical skills as an archaeologist.

3. Diversity of subfields: Make sure the program covers a wide range of topics within archaeology, such as prehistoric archaeology, classical archaeology, bioarchaeology, and more. This will allow you to explore various aspects of the discipline and help you decide which area you want to focus on in the future.

4. Access to resources: Check if the university has adequate resources such as specialized libraries, archives, collections, or museums related to archaeology. These resources can enrich your educational experience and provide valuable materials for your research projects.

5. Study abroad or field school options: Some programs offer opportunities to study or participate in field schools abroad. This can not only enhance your knowledge and skills in archaeology but also expose you to different cultures and archaeological sites.

6. Postgraduate support and networking: Look for programs that offer support to their alumni for continued engagement with the archaeology community and opportunities for networking. This could include access to job postings, lectures, workshops, or even graduate programs.

Explore these factors and narrow down your options based on what appeals to you the most. Good luck with your college search, and I hope you find the perfect archaeology program for you!