Underwater archaeology is the study of the remains of past human activity through the exploration of a variety of submerged sites, from shipwrecks in saltwater to freshwater caves and springs. Archaeological sites and artifacts can play a large role in education, community cohesion, national identity, economic development, sustainable tourism, conservation, and, of course, entertainment among others. The material culture of our shared heritage and past provides cultural continuity, perspective, and a tangible link to those who preceded us. Shipwrecks and submerged sites have long fascinated humankind, perhaps never more so than in modern day, and given climate change and rising water temperatures worldwide, it is becoming even more important to document, study, manage, and find innovative ways to preserve what remains of our past.
The MPS Underwater Archaeology track (UARCH) is a two-year program that focuses on the theory, field techniques, and management practices necessary to work within the field of archaeology and the broader general field of marine sciences. Coursework integrates topics such as site mapping and documentation, interpretation of shipwrecks and submerged sites, best management practices, marine protected areas, and marine survey technology. UARCH students receive training as AAUS Science Divers during their first semester. Students will have opportunities to work side-by-side with professional archaeologists through internships and field projects with private, public, or non-governmental agencies, both nationally and internationally, and conduct relevant fieldwork. To view the 2-year schedule for this track, along with brief descriptions for select courses, please refer to Dr. Hanselmann’s Underwater Archaeology Track Guide.
Dr. Fritz Hanselmann
Underwater Archeology Track
Fall
Credit Hours
MES 632
Theory and Method in Underwater and Maritime Archaeology
3
MES 626
Submerged Cultural Resource Management
3
RSM 600
Research Diving Techniques
3
MES 660
& MES 661Introduction to Marine Geographic Information Systems
and Introduction to Marine Geographic Information Systems - Laboratory3
Credit Hours
12
Spring
Credit Hours
MES 614
Underwater Archaeology Field Techniques
3
MES 615
Marine Archaeological Survey and Technology
3
RSM 667
Motorboat Operator Certificate Course (MOCC)
1-2
MES 672
The Archaeology of Seafaring
3
Credit Hours
12
Summer
Credit Hours
MES 691
Maritime Archaeology Field Study
3
MES 805
MPS Internship
3-6
Optional (MES 692)
Archaeological Study of Submerged Pre-Contact Sites
3
Optional (MES 693)
Maritime Archaeology & Conquest of Mexico
3
Credit Hours
6
Total Credit Hours
30
Students may take any elective on the RSMAS campus with the consent of their faculty advisor. Below are a few examples of courses past students in this program used as electives.
For more details, visit the UM Bulletin
Fall
Credit Hours
MES 632
Theory and Method in Underwater and Maritime Archaeology
3
MES 626
Submerged Cultural Resource Management
3
RSM 600
Research Diving Techniques
3
RSM 667
Motorboat Operator Certificate Course (MOCC)
1-2
Credit Hours
12
Spring
Credit Hours
MES 614
Underwater Archaeology Field Techniques
3
MES 615
Marine Archaeological Survey and Technology
3
MES 660
& MES 661Introduction to Marine Geographic Information Systems
and Introduction to Marine Geographic Information Systems - Laboratory3
MES 672
The Archaeology of Seafaring
3
Credit Hours
12
Summer
Credit Hours
MES 691
Maritime Archaeology Field Study
3
MES 805
MPS Internship
3-6
Optional (MES 692)
Archaeological Study of Submerged Pre-Contact Sites
3
Optional (MES 693)
Maritime Archaeology & Conquest of Mexico
3
Credit Hours
6
Total Credit Hours
30
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