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  3. Introduction to Archaeological Science

Introduction to Archaeological Science (ERTH90062)

Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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April - On Campus
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Archaeological science is an intersection of natural sciences and cultural heritage that covers a wide range of examples of interdisciplinary scientific applications to archaeological and cultural heritage questions. This subject will introduce students to the key knowledge and theoretical frameworks essential for archaeological science studies and form the foundation for further studies in the area. Key geoscience-based areas to be discussed include dating and chronometry methods, compositional analysis, analytical approaches, provenance, isotopic analysis, and experimental archaeology. The cultural focus will be on Indigenous and Australian archaeology, as well as input from related studies from world archaeological science. The subject will also examine the relationship of past societies to current societies.

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  • Analyse and apply geological-based knowledge to solve archaeological science questions.
  • Apply an advanced understanding of the theoretical context to analyse a key research question in archaeological science.
  • Synthesise selected research methodologies nd apply to questions such as dating, provenance and other archaeological science questions.
  • Evaluate archaeological science with an ethical comprehension of cultural heritage and working with communities.
  • Communicate critical evaluation in archaeological science in written and oral formats.

Generic skills

On completion of this subject students should have developed the following generic skills:

  • Critical thinking: the ability to exercise critical judgement, and rigorous and independent thinking 
  • Problem-solving: the ability to adopt a problem-solving approach to new or unfamiliar tasks 
  • Communication skills: the ability to prepare quality written reports and give succinct oral presentations

Last updated: 6 November 2025