What You’ll Learn

During your studies at Vermont State, you’ll be prepared as a multi-dimensional thinker with an array of marketable skills. You’ll benefit from four key areas of preparation: 

• Core training in three disciplines: You will complete courses in anthropology, archaeology, and geography that will teach you the theoretical foundations, practical tools, and research methods of each field. A senior thesis will give you valuable academic research experience and lay the foundation for graduate studies. 

• Practical field experience: Our program takes a hands-on approach, with each course including ways of applying what you are learning in the field. You’ll have rich opportunities to build your skills and expertise through archaeological digs, internships, and travel both within Vermont and beyond. 

• Technological training: The fields of archaeology and geography make use of sophisticated technologies for surveying sites, collecting geographical data, and analyzing artifacts. You’ll have the opportunity to develop market-ready skills using tools like 3D scanners and printers, drones, GIS software, and ground-penetrating radar. 

• Specialization through electives: As part of the program, you will select seven electives, which allows you to tailor your degree to your interests and career goals. You might, for instance, take several courses in GIS to prepare for a job in that field. Alternatively, you could explore culture more deeply through courses in anthropology.  

During your time at Vermont State, you’ll be building your skills and making an impact beyond the classroom. 

A paid internship lets you contribute to a local or regional organization while earning money for your studies and building professional experience. Recent students have found positions with the Granger House Project and the Berkshire Museum; with local businesses and organizations through The Valade Working and Learning Communities Fund; and in various summer archaeology internships.  

You can contribute to local archaeology and historic preservation through initiatives like the Digital Archaeology and Granger House projects. Both are using advanced scanning technologies to digitally curate artifacts to make them accessible to a wider audience. 

Further afield, you’ll find opportunities to study abroad in countries like Italy and Costa Rica or participate in fieldwork ​​far beyond the borders of Vermont. Students have contributed to projects in Kenya, Martinique, Mexico, Egypt, Scotland, and on Native American reservations.  

Special Facilities 

• Granger House Museum and Learning Lab: Immerse yourself in archaeological research right on campus. There are numerous opportunities for paid internships where you’ll work on curation, research, exhibit development, and public outreach. 
• Innovation Lab: Acquire highly marketable skills with access to state-of-the-art 3D scanners, 3D printers, virtual reality technology, drones, and geographic information systems.