Archaeology

Spring 2026 Community Education Archaeology Courses

Learn more about the Community Archaeology Program's non-credit Certificate of Proficiency in Archaeology and Certificate of Advanced Study in Community Archaeology.

Archaeological Research

January 1 - May 31  
By Appointment
CRN# 10234  
CFP 100-51  
Fee: $50

This course is mandatory for students fulfilling the 60 experience hours required for the SUNY Schenectady Community Archaeology Program (CAP) certificate. Additionally, this course is required for all students engaged in archaeological research and laboratory under a SUNY Schenectady CAP instructor’s supervision. Students must speak with an instructor before registering. Register for Archaeological Research.
Note: For Community Archaeology Program certificate students only.

Cultural Resource Management

Thursdays
February 5 – March 12
6-8 p.m.
CRN# 10798
CFP 192-71  
Fee: $75

This online course will provide an overview of cultural resource management and how it relates to archaeology research and industry. Students will be provided with information on cultural management methods, ethnics, relevant laws and legislation, and on the job skills and safety practices. The course is lecture-based and supplemented by guest presentations and a panel discussion. Register for Cultural Resource Management.
Note: Online Course

Archaeological Laboratory Practices

Wednesdays
March 4 – May 6
6-9 p.m.
CRN# 10412  
CFP 103-71  
Fee: $165

This online course gives participants an opportunity to enhance their laboratory skills by learning to further analyze artifacts for identification, laboratory processing, and recognizing a variety of organic and in organic objects. Sessions include lectures, visual media, demonstrations, two field trips, a guest lecture and a hands-on activities lab. Register for Archaeological Laboratory Practices.
Note: Online Course
Prerequisite: CFP 106 Historical Archaeology, CFP 102 Native American Archaeology, or by Community Archaeology Program faculty permission

Native American Archaeology

Thursdays
March 19 – April 23  
6-8:30 p.m.
CRN# 10926
CFP 102-51  
Fee: $95

This six-week online course focuses on the deep indigenous history and archaeology of Northeastern New York State, tracing human presence from the earliest Paleoindian settlers through the complex societies that flourished prior to European contact. Students will examine archaeological evidence of settlement, subsistence, trade, and cultural practices that shaped the region’s diverse Indigenous communities. Special attention will be given to the Hudson and Mohawk Valleys, where landscape, ecology and cultural traditions intersected to form rich and enduring lifeways. The course concludes with an exploration of the momentous changes set in motion by the 1609 voyage of Henry Hudson, situating Indigenous histories within a broader context of colonial encounter. Through readings, discussions, and case studies, students will gain a deeper appreciation of the resilience, innovation and cultural significance of New York’s first peoples. Register for Native American Archaeology.
Note: Online Course

Gravestone Cleaning

Saturday  
April 11
10 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
CRN# 10562  
CFP 123-01
Fee: $35

Would you like to learn how to clean cemetery stones? Do you have a family plot with a stone that needs cleaning? Are you having a difficult time reading the worn lettering on a stone? Melody Howarth will show you cleaning and reading methods that work. Join Ms. Howarth at Vale Cemetery for this informative workshop. Students will be contacted prior to the class with meeting instructions. Students are asked to bring gloves, bottled water, and a bagged lunch. Register for Gravestone Cleaning.
Note: Materials fee paid to the instructor: $10.
This course will be taught at Vale Cemetery, located at 907 State St., Nott Terrace, Schenectady, NY 12307.