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Archaeological Field Techniques

Program Details

Archaeological Field Techniques is a 4-week intensive study abroad field program based in Warren, Utah, where students gain hands-on training in archaeological survey, excavation, artifact identification, site mapping, photography, and soil analysis. Under the direction of experienced faculty, participants will excavate sites from the Fremont and Promontory cultures (AD 800–1500) and contribute to original research in an under-studied region. Students earn 6 credits while learning to apply archaeological methods in real-world fieldwork.

Selection Criteria:

  • Must meet course prerequisites:
    • ANTH 2030 and one upper-division (3000-4000 level) Anthropology class
    • Exception: students with ANTH 2030 but no upper-division course may be admitted at the instructor's discretion
  • Must be in good physical health (capable of hiking up to 10 miles daily and performing outdoor labor)
  • Group size: minimum 4 students, maximum 10 students.

Destination:

Warren, UT (Archaeological sites with Fremont and Promontory cultural remains)

Program Dates:

June 22nd, 2026 - July 18th, 2026

Apply Now

Cost

Cost: $760

Deposit: $200 Deposit is due 72 hours after registration. If not paid in that timeframe, you may be dropped from your trip.

Payments can now be made online! Visit this website for instructions on how to pay your deposit and future payments online. Charges should show on your account within 24-48 hours after registration. If you want to pay with cash or check, please pay at the Hurst Center for Lifelong Learning.

Includes: insurance, tuition, entrance fees for planned excursions and theatre tickets.

NOT included: airfare, incidentals, excess baggage costs, any unscheduled travel, and all meals.

This program supports Weber State’s sustainability goals and contributes to carbon-neutral travel initiatives.

Itinerary

Itinerary subject to change

  • Pre-field orientation: End of Spring 2026 semester 
  • June 22 - July 18: Daily fieldwork in Warren, Utah (Mon-Fri)
    • Activities include excavation, survey, mapping, artifact identification, and photography.
  • Post-program: Students submit a final field report and complete course assessments.

Academic Courses

Students who participate in this study abroad program will be able to register for up to six (6) semester credits through Weber State University.

  • ANTH 3300 - Archaeological Field Techniques (6 credits)
    • Fulfills a major requirement or may be taken as elective credit

Program Directors

Dr. David Yoder - Program Leader
- Over 20 years of archaeological experience
- Excavated 40+ sites, directed large-scale surveys on federal and state lands
- Former archaeologist for the Utah Governor's Office
Contact: davidyoder@weber.edu | 801-896-6286

Dr. Katie Richards - Co-Leader (New Mexico State University)
- Over a decade of archaeological experience
- Led/participated in dozens of excavations and surveys throughout Utah and Southwest.

Trip Cancellations

If Weber State cancels a trip for any reason, all participants will be refunded 100% of funds paid to the school. If a participant withdraws from the program for any reason, they are subject to the refund policy found on the first page of the application.  Deposits are always non-refundable, unless the program is canceled by Weber State.  No refunds will be issued 30 days prior to program start date. 

If you have any questions, feel free to contact the Study Abroad Office at (801) 626-8715.