English: Strong writing and communication skills are essential for archaeologists, who must be able to write reports, articles, and proposals, as well as communicate their findings to the public.
Math: Archaeologists use math to analyze data, map sites, and calculate dates. A solid foundation in math, including algebra, geometry, and statistics, is essential.
Science: Archaeologists need a strong understanding of the natural sciences, such as biology, chemistry, and geology, in order to interpret the evidence they find at excavation sites.
History: Archaeologists study the past, so a strong understanding of history is essential. This includes taking courses on world history, American history, and European history.
Foreign Language: Many archaeological sites are located in countries where English is not the primary language. Learning a foreign language can be helpful for communicating with locals and understanding the culture of the region you are studying.
Social Studies: Archaeologists study human behavior, so courses in social studies, such as anthropology, sociology, and psychology, can be helpful.
Art History: Archaeologists often work with artifacts that have artistic or cultural significance. Taking courses in art history can help you understand the context and meaning of these objects.
Computer Science: Archaeologists use computers for a variety of tasks, such as data analysis, mapping, and modeling. A basic understanding of computer science can be helpful.
In addition to these core classes, you should also take electives in areas that interest you, such as geography, environmental studies, and museum studies. The more well-rounded your education, the better prepared you will be for a career in archaeology.