COURSE CURRICULUM

The Archaeological Science graduate program offers a range of specialized courses designed exclusively for Archaeological Science majors to develop advanced skills and knowledge essential for research and professional practice. The foundational course, Archaeological Science 5110, focuses on scientific writing, critical evaluation of research seminars, and effective communication through research proposals and presentations, and is mandatory in the first year. Archaeological Science 5111 delves into advanced microscopy techniques, emphasizing the microscopic analysis of organic and inorganic materials and archaeological use-wear documentation, combining technical skills with anthropological interpretation. Archaeological Science 5112 addresses contemporary and significant issues in archaeological science, fostering critical discussions on recent discoveries and their impact on the field. The course Archaeological Science 5113 examines the theoretical frameworks and methodological approaches utilized in archaeological research, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative methods, and is cross-listed with Environmental Studies 5050. The program also offers Archaeological Science 5711, a special topics course tailored to the evolving interests and research needs of faculty and students, allowing for dynamic and current study areas. Culminating the program, Archaeological Science 5901 is the Master’s thesis course, requiring students to undertake original research and demonstrate their scholarly capabilities, graded on a pass/fail basis. This comprehensive suite of courses equips students with the interdisciplinary expertise and practical skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to archaeological science, blending rigorous scientific analysis with cultural and historical inquiry.