Global volunteers can explore dig sites worldwide by referring to the Archaeological Fieldwork Opportunities Bulletin for forthcoming archaeological expeditions.
In the coming year, archaeology enthusiasts and students have a chance to immerse themselves in various archaeological fieldwork opportunities across the globe. Here's a roundup of some of the most exciting projects for 2025.
The Archaeological Fieldwork Opportunities Bulletin (AFOB) provides continuously updated listings for projects worldwide, ensuring that you stay informed about the latest opportunities.
One such opportunity is the Maya Research Program (MRP), which offers three two-week field school sessions each summer. Participants can gain hands-on archaeological field experience at Maya/Classic Period sites in Belize, with age eligibility starting at 18. The details regarding costs and participant limits are not explicitly stated on the AFOB.
For those interested in Roman-Byzantine period archaeology, the Israel Roman Hippos Excavation offers a summer 2025 fieldwork session with options for 1-3 weeks. Tuition costs range from $825 (one week) to $3,450 (full session with academic credit), and no prior experience is required. The work can be physically demanding, but the rewards are worth it.
The Ararat Plain Southeast Archaeological Project (APSAP) conducted fieldwork in summer 2025 in the Vedi River Valley, Armenia. While the details on participation and length are not specified, the ongoing active excavation promises an exciting experience for those who join.
The Society for Historical Archaeology (SHA) is accepting applications until April 4, 2025, for scholarships to attend field schools focusing on historical archaeology (15th century to present). Scholarships range between $500-$2000 and support student participation in relevant fieldwork programs.
For those seeking a professional-level position, a Visiting Senior Scientific Specialist in Archaeology with required Midwest/Illinois fieldwork experience has an application deadline of August 7, 2025. This position offers leadership in field projects, though it is a job rather than a volunteer field school opportunity.
CORE Archaeology's cultural programs run year-round and offer a certificate of participation for completion of the placement. Activities vary with the seasons and include conservation, maintenance, education, and awareness initiatives. The programs in Cusco, Peru support the Ministry of Culture and national park staff at Machu Picchu.
The third NOMAD Science program in Mongolia runs from August 14 to September 5, 2025. Participants will gather important data using zooarchaeological methods on reindeer carcasses in a remote, difficult-to-reach region. The program requires experience in horseback riding and costs $4,250. The second and first NOMAD Science programs in Mongolia run from July 22 to August 18, 2025, and June 22 to July 18, 2025, respectively, with each focusing on cultural heritage preservation and field conservation.
The Tell Timai Archaeological Project is located at the ruins of the Greco-Roman city of Thmouis, known for its prized Mendesian perfume and key role in the rise of early Christianity. The project offers a volunteer or staff position for individuals aged 18 and older. The project runs from June 16 to July 25, 2025, with another winter season in December 2025. Contact the project director for fee information.
It's important to note that the NOMAD Science experiences in Mongolia and the Tell Timai Archaeological Project are not affiliated with the Archeological Institute of America (AIA). The same applies to the 2025 Foothill Ecuador Summer Program, which costs $2,500 and offers academic credit and hands-on experience.
Finally, the 2025 Foothill Ecuador Summer Program is a three-week field experience blending archaeology and anthropology. The program includes lectures, cultural excursions, and service learning, with participants assisting with excavation, artifact cataloging, and community projects in Cangahua (Cayambe), Ecuador.
For more information on these and other fieldwork opportunities, visit the respective project websites or contact the designated contacts. Early applications are encouraged, especially for scholarship deadlines in April and job applications in early August. Happy digging!
- The Archaeological Fieldwork Opportunities Bulletin (AFOB) offers a chance to stay informed about the latest archaeological fieldwork opportunities worldwide.
- The Maya Research Program (MRP) in Belize provides three summer sessions for those aged 18 and above to gain archaeological field experience.
- The Israel Roman Hippos Excavation offers a summer 2025 fieldwork session focusing on the Roman-Byzantine period, with tuition costs varying from $825 to $3,450.
- The Ararat Plain Southeast Archaeological Project (APSAP) in Armenia offers an ongoing active excavation experience, but details on participation and length are not specified.
- The Society for Historical Archaeology (SHA) offers scholarshipsup to $2000 for students participating in relevant fieldwork programs focusing on historical archaeology.
- CORE Archaeology's cultural programs in Cusco, Peru, offer a certificate of participation and support the Ministry of Culture and national park staff at Machu Picchu.
- The third NOMAD Science program in Mongolia, running from August 14 to September 5, 2025, focuses on zooarchaeological methods on reindeer carcasses and requires horseback riding experience, costing $4,250.
