FAQ
Archaeologist FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as an archaeologist.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming an archaeologist: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about archaeologists
Where do most archaeologists work?
In cultural resource management for construction projects.
Do I need a master’s?
For project-level roles, usually.
Is fieldwork seasonal?
Often.
How much does an archaeologist make?
The median annual wage for archaeologists was $70,770 ($34.02 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $49,050 and the highest 10% earned more than $108,060.
How long does it take to become an archaeologist?
Most people need about Bachelor’s plus field school; master’s for leadership of training. A master’s degree is typical for project roles; technicians often start with a bachelor’s.
Do you need a degree to be an archaeologist?
Yes. BLS lists a master's degree as the typical entry-level education.
Is archaeologist a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +6.0% from 2025–35 (faster than average), with about 800 openings each year. Upsides include discover history; a common challenge is that seasonal field jobs.
What skills does an archaeologist need?
Key technical skills include excavation, survey, artifact analysis, and gis. Employers also value patience, attention to detail, and teamwork.
What certifications are available for archaeologists?
Common credentials include RPA, Field school, OSHA 10, and GIS certificate. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Archaeologist fit quiz, compare with Anthropology Professor, or explore Archaeologist training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 19-3091 (Anthropologists and archeologists).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Anthropologists and archeologists (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.