•
•
bullet CBSE > Career Options in India > How To Become An Archaeologist

How to Become an Archaeologist

Archaeologist

Government Jobs: Most archaeologists work in the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in its exploration, archaeologist 198x300 How to Become an Archaeologistexcavation, epigraphy, pre-history and museum branches (for these jobs, the ASI diploma is a must). Headquartered in Delhi, ASI is involved in the exploration, excavation, conservation and maintenance of 3,600 centrally protected sites and monuments in India. It is also involved in epigraphic research and chemical preservation of antiquarian remains and the organisation and maintenance of site museums. ASI also publishes site guides, brochures, catalogues, excavation reports and picture postcards. With divisions in every state, ASI employees a large network of professionals both in the state archaeological departments as well as in the centre. Recruitment is through exams conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and state public service commissions. The pay scales are as per state/central government scales. A PhD in archaeology is necessary for the higher posts of superintendent of archaeology or senior archaeologist. The ASI also employs those specialising in classical, ancient or medieval languages. Archaeologists also work in the historical department of the ministry of external affairs, in the Central Board of Film Censors, films division of the ministry of information and broadcasting, defence services, All India Handicrafts Board, ministry of education and with the departments of tourism, Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR), Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR), Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), National Archives of India, among others. All said and done, a major chunk of openings are to be found in the government. Besides government organisations, there are various other heritage bodies like INTACH and some foreign universities and foundations that are involved in urban conservation or excavations in India that provide employment to archaeologists. Archaeologists can also seek funds to go abroad to join or conduct excavations in their sphere of specialisation. They can also work as experts or consultants on mediarelated projects like films or documentaries on archaeological sites and cultures. Private collectors and museums may also require their services.

Where to Study Archaeology in India ?

At the postgraduate level, archaeology is offered at more than 25 universities across the country. In the north you can look at the following: Institute of Archaeology, Archaeological Survey of India, Red Fort Complex, Delhi 110006 (GoI) 110001 Course: PG diploma in archaeology (two years) Eligibility: Master’s degree (ancient/medieval Indian history)/(archaeology/anthropology/Indian classical language/ geology with knowledge of pleistocene age; 55%).Stipend: is paid to unemployed students for the period of two years. Barkatullah Vishwavidhyalaya, Bhopal (MP); Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi (UP); Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra (Haryana) The Delhi Institute of Heritage Research & Management,18 A, Satsang Vihar Marg, Qutub Institutional Area, New Delhi 110067, (Affiliated to GGSIPU)www.dihrm.org Course: Master’s in archaeology and heritage management (two years) Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree (humanities/science) Selection: Entrance test.