Historical Archaeology Field Schools

The Smith’s Island Archaeology Field School has trained dozens of students in excavation and research methods and prepared them for graduate study. The program studies the early Modern Atlantic World from Bermuda - an island at its center - as we dig two early 17^th-century sites dating to the dawn of English global expansion. Students are involved in all aspects of fieldwork: excavation, artifact identification, documentary research, mapping, photography, and 3D digital modeling. Through readings, archival research, and exploration of local sites and museums students learn about Bermuda’s long history, processes of Americanization, and early African history. Prior archaeological experience or knowledge of  early American history is not required. 

Our field school is based in St. George’s, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which boasts many 18th-century houses and forts and is still an active sailing port. Students will be immersed in Bermudian culture and work alongside Bermudian volunteers. 

We live on nearby Paget Island and commute to work daily by boat. Work includes excavations in the field on Smith’s Island and artifact processing and analysis in our lab in St. George’s. By the end students develop core skills for employment as  professional archaeologists, a solid understanding of archaeological research methods, and a deep immersion in Bermudian, maritime, and Atlantic World history.

Program Costs are $5,500, which covers food, housing, in-country travel and tuition for 4 UR credits but not the cost of airfare to/from Bermuda. Most students enroll in HIST 258 Archaeology Field & Research Methods. Students with prior archaeological field experience can take HIS 358, Advanced Field Methods. Recent graduates and graduate students can take HIST 497 for graduate course credit. These courses satisfy requirements in the UR ATHS major or can be used for history, anthropology, and other majors, minors, and clusters.

The SIAP field school is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and works to build and maintain an atmosphere of mutual respect and warm collaboration. Need-based financial support is available for UR students, so don't let the program cost alone dissuade you from applying.

To apply, contact Dr. Michael Jarvis (Michael.Jarvis@rochester.edu) or through the UR Education Abroad PORTAL. Applications are due by March 20, 2026, but are accepted on a rolling basis.