Archaeology (BA) / Archaeology & Geography (BSc)

Archaeology at the University of Lethbridge combines fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and interdisciplinary research to help students understand past human cultures and societies. Through the interpretation of material remains and artifacts, archaeologists uncover evidence that helps us better understand our past and what it can teach us about the present.

As a student of archaeology, you will explore many aspects of archaeological interpretation and have opportunities to put these skills into practice both in the field and in the laboratory. You will engage with a range of theoretical and methodological approaches, gaining a balanced and in-depth understanding of the discipline.

In addition to the core courses of the program, students can expand their studies into related areas such as anthropology, languages, human geography, physical geography, geology, GIS, and remote sensing.

About archaeology at ULethbridge

The Department of Geography & Environment offers multidisciplinary majors in Archaeology (Bachelor of Arts) AND Archaeology & Geography (Bachelor of Science) for the 40-course degree programs. You can also opt for a General Major in the Social Sciences or Sciences and select Archaeology or Archeology & Geography as one of the three streams. In all geography-based programs, you are also able to declare a Concentration in Geographical Information Science (GIS).

Bachelor of Arts:
In the BA program, you will explore archaeology and geography from a predominantly cultural perspective, working with the cognate disciplines, including history and anthropology.

Bachelor of Science:
BSc curriculum focuses on developing an in-depth understanding of the physical side of archaeology and geography, such as geomorphology, geology, GIS, biological evolution and the scientific methods used in artifact analyses.

Geographical Information Science:
Archaeology & geography students are encouraged to build on their knowledge with more advanced research methods in Geographical Information Science (GIS). A notable area of strength at the U of L, GIS has become a growth area in research, teaching and employment for our graduates. These courses also benefit the study of archaeology. The Department hosts a GIS/Remote Sensing lab for teaching and student projects, as well as dedicated research and graduate student areas equipped with advanced computing resources and specialized GIS and remote sensing software.

Get Involved!

There are opportunities for you to take part in digs every summer in addition to participating in laboratory work throughout the year.

Archaeology students from the University of Lethbridge spent summer 2021 at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump during an archaeological field school. Video: Michael Wivell, Square Sheep Films

Faculty members conduct research that has local, national and international implications, such as archaeological excavation in southern Alberta, Europe and the Middle East, especially Israel.

To find out more about these exciting opportunities, contact the Department directly.

Stay Informed

The Registrar's Office has many great resources to help you plan your program. Our Academic Advisors are also a great resource, so connect with them early and as often as you need. They can help you understand your degree requirements and help you navigate your program planning guide. To access the Program Planning Guide for 2025-26, click here. Program Planning Guides for all other years, are available here.