How does one become an archaeologist?

Question

please tell me

Answer 1

Well, I am not an official archaeologist but I did work in the field in Hawaii for several years.  First you can research the field of archaeology to see what kind of research you want to persue.  If you like history then a history major in one subject will suffice. Historical archaeology is very interesting and may be easier to find jobs in...or write grants for.  The beautiful speculations and old artifacts of Egyptian or Chinese cultures for instance, can be accessed through volunteering in programs that use free help...Because so much of archaeology is field work that part of the job seems romantic and fun but the work is often tedious and sometimes doesn't pay as much...the work is dependent on moneys from university, government grants and private or museum moneys...There are few state positions and lucrative jobs are very competitive.  In fact many corporations and even state projects are not desirous of declaring prehistorical or even historical finds because it may mean a project is stalled or lost all together. Therefore there may even be disadvantages to being  an archaeologist when seeking jobs outside of your field...there are many things to consider when looking into the Archaeology profession.  Universities in different countries require different majors to qualify for that degree...In America the emphasis is on anthropology, biology,physical, botony or history majors but the requirements may vary wildly....Interesting subject though! And publishing is definitely a plus because just like any other discipline there are rivalries and theories that create dissodence and opinions... oh yes, my husband says "hang around old bones."

Answer 2

This is easy.  You just go seeking for lost and/or buried artifacts!  You don't have to be any good to be one, you know!

Seiously, you need to get basic entry qualifications to get into university; in the U.K. this is at least 5 GCSEs of grade C or above, with one science, English and Maths.  If you have any particular previous experience or special qualifications that demonstrate an apptitude to pass the course, you could even gain entry into university without formal qualifications.  

Once armed with your basic foundation education, you get the UCAS book from your local library et al. and apply to universities to study...yes, you've guessed it - archaeology!  Three of four years easy study and you should pass - complete with a large student loans debt!  Then you'll struggle to find work and end up doing something other than archaelogy - no wait - that's art students!

A word of warning though: it ain't much like Raiders of the Lost Ark!