This two-week pass/no-pass course provides students with hands-on experience in key archaeological and museum studies skills.
Students will learn how to organize, catalog, and analyze objects and ecological materials from archaeological excavations. Students will take an active role in preparing materials from the Connley Caves, Oregon, for curation at the Museum of Natural and Cultural History while learning about the legal and ethical frameworks that guide archaeological work.
Throughout the course students will engage with macroscopic and microscopic materials including lithics, fauna, macrobotanicals, and pollen. Students will also practice fundamental lab skills, including labeling artifacts, stone tool analysis, botanical flotation, and sorting archaeological materials.
Beyond technical skills, this course will encourage students to consider the broader responsibilities of archaeologists. Students will explore career and research opportunities in archaeology and receive guidance on creating a strong academic resume. The course will also include guest lectures, a knapping workshop, and field trips to labs across campus.
The class will take place at the Great Basin Archaeology Lab. Visit the lab’s website to learn more about their ongoing work.
Location/Logistics
- Dates: September 2 through September 12
- Time: Monday through Friday,9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Location: Great Basin Archaeology Lab(1329 Franklin Blvd)
- Credits and Grading: Credits and Grading: 4 credits, pass/no pass only (this class cannot be taken for a letter grade).