In our archaeology field school, you’ll learn how to survey, map, excavate, and conduct responsible archaeology. Below are the details on our upcoming field school.

In the summer of 2025, the anthropology department will be offering a 6-week archaeological field school. The primary goal of this field school is to train students in archaeological field methods by having them participate in active, ongoing field research programs in the Southwest. Archaeological field training is essential for any student who hopes to gain professional employment in archaeology. But, our field school isn't just for future professionals--it's also a wonderful opportunity for anyone who wants to learn more about the archaeology of this region by participating in a real dig!

When: May 17 – June 27, 2025

Where: Fieldwork will take place at the Twin Pines Village site (dating AD 550–650 and AD 1000–1130), located on the Aldo Leopold Wilderness portion of the Gila National Forest in New Mexico.

What: Students will receive 6 weeks of training in archaeological field methods, including limited survey, manual and digital mapping, excavation, feature documentation, artifact processing, and artifact analysis. We will stay at Beaverhead Work Center (basecamp) for 6 weeks, so participants must be prepared for camping and for rigorous outdoor activity including walking, climbing, carrying equipment, and digging. If conditions allow, we will also take several short field trips to local sites relevant to both projects.

Course Options: The field school is an intensive 6-week field-based course, for which all students will earn 6 credit hours. Students can apply for admission to the field school through one of the following course options:

·  ANTH P-480: Fieldwork in Archaeology. No prerequisites.

·  ANTH A-595: Archaeological Field School. Prerequisite: graduate student status.

Cost: Students will be charged tuition for 6 credits, and we will also charge a course fee of $1900 to cover transportation, food, and facilities. Tuition rates vary depending on the semester, resident or non-resident status, and graduate or undergraduate status.

How to Apply:  

Click here to apply!

Questions? Contact the project director: Dr. Fumi Arakawa (farakawa@iu.edu).