PhD in Archaeology
The PhD in Archaeology is offered at both the post-baccalaureate (16-course) and post-master’s (8-course) levels. Specializations are offered either in the archaeology of a specific area or time period, or in a broader subject, such as paleoenvironmental studies or the archaeology of complex societies. Area studies emphasized include Old World prehistory, and New and Old World historical archaeology, the classical world, Egypt, and the Near East.
Admission
Applicants must have a BA or MA, preferably from a program related to archaeology (such as anthropology or classical studies, with a concentration in archaeology). Students lacking sufficient preparation in archaeology will make up the deficiency by taking courses as determined by the Graduate Studies Committee in addition to those required in the program.
Courses
For the post-baccalaureate PhD, a minimum of 16 courses is required, including GRS AR 701, 702, 705, 706, and 780. Each student, in consultation with faculty advisors, will also develop a program of study that includes a field of specialization. Those with no background in anthropology must take at least two courses in sociocultural anthropology within the first two years. Students must also demonstrate a command of the material covered in CAS AR 503 or take the course.
For the post-master’s degree, a minimum of eight semester courses is required. The specific course requirements will be established by the Graduate Studies Committee after reviewing the student’s background and determining what deficiencies, if any, are to be made up; a coherent program of study within the concentration chosen will be outlined at that time.
Language Requirements
Two modern foreign languages, as approved by the Graduate Studies Committee, are required.
Concentrators in Old World historical archaeology must also demonstrate, by written examination, knowledge of an appropriate ancient language. The level of language proficiency required is that normally attained by one graduate-level reading course.
Examinations
Upon completion of coursework, each student will take a set of Qualifying Examinations, with written and oral components, that focus on the individual specialization developed by the student in conjunction with his or her advisor during the program of formal study. Before the end of the second semester following the examinations just described, students present their dissertation proposals to the faculty and other graduate students in the program.
Dissertation and Oral Examinations
The student prepares a scholarly dissertation of original research. When presented, this is the subject of an oral examination conducted by at least five faculty members.
