Dec 03, 2024  
Course Catalog 2022-2023 
    
Course Catalog 2022-2023 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Archaeological Studies


Drew Wilburn, Professor of Classics, Chair
Ben Lee, Professor of Classics
Amy Margaris, Associate Professor of Anthropology
Michael Moore, Donald R. Longman Professor of Biology
Amanda Schmidt, Associate Professor of Geosciences


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Archaeology is the study of past societies through their material remains. The scope of the discipline is broad, unifying methods drawn from anthropology, art history, classics, material culture studies, and history, as well as scientific disciplines such as geology and computer science. At Oberlin College, the Archaeological Studies Program encompasses interdepartmental offerings that explore cultures from all over the world, from the prehistoric to the early historic period. This program of study introduces students to the analytic tools and ethical considerations that guide today’s archaeological research.

The Curricular Committee on Archaeology oversees the major in archaeological studies. The major has three primary goals. First, it requires students, regardless of their specific interests, to become acquainted with a range of different archaeological research perspectives and cultural areas among those represented in the college curriculum. Second, it permits students to explore the interrelations between archaeology and the historical, humanistic, and scientific modes of inquiry consistent with current trends in both study and research. Finally, the major requires students to apply the knowledge they have gained through an independent research project. Majors design their own curriculum in close consultation with their advisor according to the specific area of concentration within the discipline.

The core curriculum consists of a selection of courses drawn from the regular offerings in anthropology, art, classics, and religion. The core curriculum is supplemented by appropriate courses in related disciplines such as biology, chemistry, computer science, environmental studies, geology, mathematics, physics, and statistics.

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Majors and Minors


Courses