Career roadmap
How to Become an Archaeologist
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as an archaeologist, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become an archaeologist: (1) earn an anthropology bachelor’s, (2) attend field school, (3) work as a field technician, (4) earn a master’s, (5) become RPA. Most people need about Bachelor’s plus field school; master’s for leadership. BLS lists “master's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become an archaeologist
Earn an anthropology bachelor’s
Archaeology focus.
Attend field school
Training.
Work as a field technician
Experience.
Earn a master’s
Leadership.
Become RPA
Professional.
Education and training requirements
A master’s degree is typical for project roles; technicians often start with a bachelor’s.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Master's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | Bachelor’s plus field school; master’s for leadership |
Certifications and licenses
- RPA: Register of Professional Archaeologists.
- Field school: Required training.
- OSHA 10: Safety.
- GIS certificate: Helpful.
Skills to build now
Start with excavation, survey, and artifact analysis, and practice patience and attention to detail. Learning the archaeologist vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Field Technician: Entry.
- Crew Chief: Lead crews.
- Project Archaeologist: Lead projects.
- Principal Investigator: Lead research.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Archaeologist training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
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.
What certifications are available for archaeologists?
Common credentials include RPA, Field school, OSHA 10, and GIS certificate. Requirements vary by state and employer.
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.