Study Abroad Library

Archaeology Semester Abroad

Archaeology is the study of the origins and development of human culture through the recovery, documentation and analysis of material remains and environmental data. Archaeologists reconstruct past human behavior and cultural complexity by examining prehistoric architecture, artifacts, human remains and landscapes. Galen University in western Belize offers this degree program, accredited through the University of Indianapolis. Galen University is located in the heart of the ancient Maya lowlands, and students have the unique opportunity to study Archaeology through hands-on learning experiences. A variety of Maya archaeological sites, such as the cities of Caracol, Xunantunich, Cahal Pech and Baking Pot, are included in the studies. Students work in all aspects of the archaeological investigations, from excavating prehistoric Maya architecture to illustrating artifacts recovered from the sites. In addition to excavating and mapping cultural remains, students also engage in laboratory work and participate in the analysis of ceramic and lithic artifacts plus human and animal remains. Many of these courses are taught by the head of the Belize Department of Archaeology, Dr. Jaime Awe.