M.A. in Applied Archaeology

CSUSB's M.A. in Applied Archaeology program is strategically designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience required to excel in the field of archaeology and heritage preservation. California State University, San Bernardino's M.A. in Applied Archaeology program offers a comprehensive and immersive educational experience for individuals passionate about exploring and preserving our shared human history. With its interdisciplinary curriculum, hands-on learning experiences, experienced faculty, cultural resource management focus, research opportunities, and networking possibilities, the program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the field of archaeology and heritage management. Graduates of this program are well-prepared to uncover the mysteries of the past, contribute to heritage preservation, and make meaningful contributions to our understanding of human civilization.

Curriculum:

1. Interdisciplinary Curriculum: The program offers an interdisciplinary curriculum that covers a broad range of topics in archaeology. Students explore subjects such as archaeological methods, cultural resource management (CRM), heritage preservation, artifact analysis, and archaeological ethics. This holistic approach ensures students acquire a well-rounded understanding of the discipline.

2. Hands-On Learning: CSUSB places a strong emphasis on hands-on learning. Through field excavations, laboratory work, and internships, students gain practical experience in archaeological research, excavation techniques, artifact analysis, and heritage management. This experiential learning is essential for applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.

3. Experienced Faculty: The program benefits from a faculty of experienced archaeologists and heritage professionals. Faculty members bring their real-world insights, research expertise, and fieldwork experience into the classroom, providing students with valuable mentorship and guidance.

4. Cultural Resource Management (CRM): CSUSB's program often includes coursework in cultural resource management, preparing students for careers related to heritage preservation, compliance with historic preservation laws, and the protection of archaeological sites during development projects.

5. Research Opportunities: CSUSB encourages research in archaeology. Students have the opportunity to engage in research projects, conduct archaeological surveys, and contribute to the understanding of past cultures and historical landscapes. This research focus allows students to contribute to the field's knowledge base.

6. Networking: Students benefit from networking opportunities and collaborations with local archaeological organizations, museums, government agencies, and cultural heritage institutions. This exposure helps students build valuable connections within the archaeological and heritage preservation communities.

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 70

1. Academic Qualifications:

   • For Postgraduate Programs: A bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution.
   • A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (equivalent to 65% and above).
      

2. English Language Proficiency:

   • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) iBT: An overall score of 79 or higher.
   • International English Language Testing System (IELTS): An overall score of 6.0 or higher with no band score less than 5.5.
   • Duolingo English Test (DET): A score of 105 or higher.
   • Pearson Test of English (PTE): A score of 53 or higher.

Scholarships for International Students at CSUSB

1. CSUSB Merit-Based Scholarships: These scholarships are available to both undergraduate and graduate international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements. Merit-based scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, and they can significantly reduce tuition costs.

2. CSUSB International Student Scholarship: This scholarship is designed exclusively for international students pursuing undergraduate or graduate programs at CSUSB. Eligibility criteria typically include academic performance and potential contributions to the campus community.

3. CSUSB Athletic Scholarships: International students who excel in sports may have the opportunity to receive athletic scholarships. These scholarships are usually awarded to student-athletes who participate in CSUSB's NCAA Division II athletic programs.

4. Departmental Scholarships: Many academic departments within CSUSB offer scholarships to students majoring in specific fields. International students should inquire with their respective departments about scholarship opportunities related to their chosen majors.

5. External Scholarships: International students are encouraged to explore scholarships offered by external organizations, governments, and foundations in their home countries. These scholarships may be available for studying in the United States and can provide additional financial support.

6. Graduate Assistantships: Graduate students at CSUSB may be eligible for graduate assistantships, which offer tuition waivers and stipends in exchange for research or teaching assistance. These opportunities are typically available for master's and doctoral students.

7. Fulbright Program: CSUSB may participate in the Fulbright Program, which provides scholarships for international students to pursue graduate studies in the United States. Interested students should check the availability of Fulbright opportunities at CSUSB.

8. Cultural and Exchange Scholarships: Some scholarships are specifically designed to promote cultural exchange between the United States and other countries. International students should explore options provided by cultural exchange programs.

9. Foundation Scholarships: CSUSB has various foundation scholarships that international students can apply for. These scholarships are often based on a combination of academic achievement, financial need, and community involvement.

10. Private Scholarships: International students can research and apply for private scholarships from organizations, corporations, and foundations that support education. Websites like the International Scholarships website can help identify potential sources of funding.

It's essential for international students to review scholarship opportunities early in the application process, as application deadlines and eligibility criteria may vary.

Graduates of CSUSB's M.A. in Applied Archaeology program have a wide array of rewarding career opportunities in the field of archaeology and heritage management. Whether aspiring to be archaeologists, cultural resource managers, or museum curators, graduates of this program are poised for success and leadership in the realm of applied archaeology.

Archaeologist: Graduates can work as archaeologists, conducting excavations, artifact analysis, and research to uncover and interpret the past. They may work for government agencies, museums, research institutions, or archaeological consulting firms.

Cultural Resource Manager: Graduates can pursue careers in cultural resource management, overseeing heritage preservation projects, compliance with historic preservation laws, and the protection of archaeological sites during development projects.

Museum Curator: Those interested in museum work can become museum curators, responsible for the curation and interpretation of archaeological artifacts and exhibits in museums and cultural institutions.

Historic Preservation Specialist: Graduates can work as historic preservation specialists, involved in the preservation and restoration of historic buildings, landscapes, and districts. They may collaborate with government agencies or preservation organizations.

Heritage Educator: Graduates can become heritage educators, sharing their knowledge and passion for archaeology and heritage preservation through educational programs, public outreach, and museum exhibits.

Archaeological Consultant: Graduates may choose to work as archaeological consultants, providing expertise to government agencies, developers, and environmental firms on the impact of projects on archaeological resources and compliance with regulations.

Archaeological Field Technician: Entry-level positions as archaeological field technicians involve participating in archaeological fieldwork, excavation, and artifact documentation under the supervision of senior archaeologists.

Academic Researcher: Graduates interested in academia can pursue doctoral degrees and become academic researchers and professors, contributing to the advancement of archaeological knowledge through research and teaching.

Cultural Heritage Officer: Some graduates may work as cultural heritage officers for government agencies or organizations dedicated to preserving cultural heritage. They may oversee heritage preservation programs and policies.

Environmental Impact Analyst: Graduates can work as environmental impact analysts, assessing the archaeological and cultural impacts of construction projects on the environment and advising on mitigation strategies.