The University of Northern British Columbia in collaboration with the Nuxalk Nation is pleased to announce the 2004 Archaeology Field School, subject to sufficient enrollment. This 15 credit (full semester) field school takes place in the Bella Coola Valley, home of the Nuxalkm. The Nuxalk People of the Bella Coola Valley and surrounding region have a rich cultural and historical tradition that extends back several millennia. This tradition links the area's archaeology to provide a broad based understanding of the past. A major goal of the field school is to encourage participants to bridge the gap between archaeological and traditional knowledge. University students will work side by side with Nuxalk students and other community members to facilitate cross-cultural learning and friendships. The Bella Coola Valley is renowned for its world-class alpine scenery and wildlife. It is not unusual for field school participants to see eagles, black bears and grizzly bears, particularly during the intense salmon runs that occur during the field school season.
Courses
The field school comprises three senior undergraduate courses that focus on practical and cultural concerns:
ANTH 416-6 Archaeological Survey and Mapping
ANTH 417-6 Archaeological Excavation and Field Interpretation
ANTH 418-3 Archaeology and First Nations
Students will learn a variety of survey, excavation and recording methods. The relationship between field techniques and research questions asked is a critical focus of the teaching programme. This takes place in the contexts of both classroom learning and field participation in the excavation of an early archaeological site, the Salloomt site. In effect, the classroom is a five minute walk from the excavation.
NOTE: Non-UNBC students will be required to apply for general university admission upon acceptance into the field school
Accommodation
Students will have to bring their own tents and sleeping bags. Everyone will be a full participant in camp life, including helping with the camp set up and take-down, preparing meals and caring for equipment. Camp life will be rustic but comfortable. Amenities such as groceries and other supplies are available in nearby Hagensborg and Bella Coola.
Instructor: Philip Hobler, Professor Emeritus, Simon Fraser University. This is the 28th such field school to be run by Prof. Hobler. Participants will have the advantage of being able to draw upon his lengthy experience in the region and knowledge of its people and archaeology.
Cost
Tuition fees for 15 credits plus $1,000 for camp and transportation costs.
This works out to approximately $3,000.00 for Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
For international students, the total cost is approximately CAN$7,000.00 (or US$5,200.00 as of April 8, 2004)
Cost estimate includes tuition, meals and transportation from Prince George. Does not include textbooks, personal camping and other gear, personal needs or ancillary student and health fees.
Application deadline: May 21, 2004 Download application here (MS Word File)
For further information please contact Farid Rahemtulla at the UNBC Anthropology Program. farid@unbc.ca Tel: (250)960-6691
The infamous "Hill" at Heckman Pass, descending into the Bella Coola Valley