Professional school and studying archaeology? – Jointly closing the gap between academic studies and professional requirements

Abstract

Employers’ demands for a career-oriented curriculum are heard again and again, while at the same time there are reports of a declining standard of scientific skills among graduates. Students complain of a lack of educational opportunities. Traditionally, universities educate scholars and scientists; occupations are learned by employers in companies or offices. The solution presented here insists on a higher self-responsibility of the prospective archaeologists, more initiative on the part of the employers in the training and more access possibilities for employer initiatives at the archaeological institutes. Work-study models, internship arrangements, and teaching opportunities from companies and offices could enrich the training at universities, give students the opportunity for an active career planning, and help universities maintain their capacities which is too tight anyway.