Environmental Archaeology

Overview

During the degree programme you will build upon your existing knowledge of archaeology, Quaternary science, physical geography or related subjects. You will develop skills in methods for analysing environmental evidence in the form of plant and insect remains. You will also learn to read traces left in soils and sediments by studying their physical and chemical properties.

Environmental Archaeology is about understanding how people have impacted on, and interacted with, environments. By studying organic and chemical remains or artefacts using methods from the natural sciences you can build a picture of the role humans have played in different ecosystems. Within the field we study long time perspectives, from the end of the Ice Age until historical times, and include farming as much as hunter gatherers.

Problem solving in real projects and excavations

When studying environmental archaeology, you mix theory with practice in the field and lab. You learn specialised methods to investigate questions such as what prehistoric people grew and ate, what the landscape looked like and how climate has changed. Teaching is mainly based around real problems, and during the programme you build up a toolbox of methods and skills for excavation, analysis, interpretation and presentation of archaeological and environmental data. You will work closely within a real life project and excavation environment.

Career opportunities

This degree prepares you for work as an archaeologist, environmental archaeologist, administrator or investigator at a heritage board, administrative organisation or museum. Other employment possibilities include those within landscape management and conservation, creating exhibitions, as a nature/heritage guide or museum curator.

The Environmental Archaeology programme at Umea University also prepares you for working with Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and various laboratory processes. Potential workplaces include administrative organisations, land survey agencies and forestry or conservation agencies. The degree is also highly appropriate for building a career in environmental archaeology, paleoecology, Quaternary science or similar research fields. You will also be eligible to apply for PhD studentships in archaeology, environmental archaeology and related subjects.

Interested in becoming a scientist?

During the degree you will develop your capacity for independent thinking and scientific writing – essential skills for moving on to a career in research. After having read the Master's degree in Environmental Archaeology, you will be eligible to apply for PhD positions in archaeology or environmental archaeology in Sweden and internationally.