What colleges offer the best Archeological programs?

Question

I'm interested in an Archeology major/ Anthropology and I have no idea where any good schools are. HELP!!

I'm intersted in South American Studies or Middle East, like Egypt etc.

Answer 1

The ones already listed are good for what you want, but you might want to think about expanding your options. Most programs make you stick to the basics that are useful worldwide anyway. If this is the case at these schools listed, you might want to look for a more inexpensive program first and then transfer or get an advanced degree at one of these places.

The University of Wyoming has an excellent anthropology program that you would emphasize archeology for the bachelors. They also have the George Frison Institute. However, their focus is mostly the surrounding area for all time periods. They do offer courses for World Archeology and other things too. It just isn't as relevant to wear the school is located. However, it is also a smaller University and somewhat more inexpensive. This is especially a good thing should you decide to change majors in the future. Here is a link: http://uwadmnweb.uwyo.edu/ANTHROPOLOGY/

As for Egyptology, I am told that it is very much kind of a buddies club. It is very hard to get in with that crowd. Of course, I don't know how much of this is hearsay, but I thought I'd pass it on.

Also, I knew someone who got her bachelors and masters from the University of Wyoming, but for her PhD she went to Berkeley. There she got to do archeology in France and Central America.

Answer 2

If you are just graduating from HS, I would suggest that you find a JR College that has a good anthropology program ['archaeology is usually listed under anthro.] Spend at least one yr. at the jr. college first before going to a larger university. You can also find lots of info. on which U. offers the 'best' archaeology programs...I'm certain there are several. My personal preference, of course, was U. of Arizona; Tucson,
Also, be sure that you take courses that are transferable to the U. you choose.
Others to consider may be Stanford, UCLA;Davis, Arizona State, U. of Washington,Oregon State U. ....or it also depends on where you wish to live or go while in school. Pay close attention to what types of archaeology the college/university practices and where they go when out in the field. You can also be eligible for field schools in many parts of the US and overseas...[but you will have to pay for your own expenses and the field school.
[Personally I always suggest to those who wish to be in archaeology that they get a BS and be a 'tech' for while before you attempt a Masters or Phd.], ( techs usually get low pay, but lots of experience), or get an Ed. degree with your Social Science degree so you can teach in the winter and 'play' in the summer [and afford it as you MAY get paid as a 'tech']....
[e-mail]

Answer 3

Cleveland State University has a great program in Anthro. for people interested in South America. One of our professors still goes to Belize to study among one of the many Mayan tribes, and he likes to bring students. There is another professor who has spent I think 15-20 years in Brazil. CSU has a program for learning the Mayan glyphs.
CSU is also starting a new major in Middle Eastern Studies. Its small, but that can be to your advantage when it comes to letters of recommendation.

Answer 4

Consider programs at UCLA, University of Pennsylvania or the University of Chicago.