MA in History and Historical Archaeology
The History/Historical Archaeology track offers a program of study in anthropology and history with concentrations in historical archaeology, ethnohistory and the comparative study of colonialism. Students can also receive specialized training in environmental archaeology working with faculty and staff of the Fiske Center for Archaeological Research.
With additional course work students can choose to pursue a concentration in historical archaeology and GIS (Geographic Information Systems). The program is designed for students interested in receiving a comprehensive master’s degree before going on for a doctorate or those interested in careers in cultural resource management or museums.
Areal concentration North America and Mesoamerica, subarea concentrations Northeastern United States, California, American Southwest, Chesapeake, and Andean South America. Students are expected to take four required courses, three in anthropology, one in history, and four electives in either anthropology, history, American studies or geographic information systems. Research opportunities are available through the Fiske Center for Archaeological Research. Museum internships are available with several area museums including Plimouth Plantation, Old Sturbridge Village and Strawberry Banke. Research assistantships are available that carry tuition waivers and stipends.
Facilities
The Anthropology Department maintains large collections of material culture from regional archaeological contexts. The department also maintains a large faunal collection and a laboratory of human osteology. The Biology department maintains an archaeobotanical laboratory including a scanning electron microscope which is available for thesis research. The Anthropology department also maintains laboratory facilities for conducting thin section analysis and parasitological analysis. Graduate students have access to the University of Massachusetts Boston Computer Graphics Laboratory that supports the latest in computer graphics hardware and software. Darkroom facilities are also available for student use.