Fiji: Archaeology

"Learn about South Pacific archaeology and excavate a prehistoric Fijian site."
This program consists of formal course work at SFU and the University of the South Pacific, followed by archaeological field training at excavation sites at the Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park, one of the most important archaeological sites in Oceania, on the Coral Coast of Viti Levu. Participants will have the opportunity to tour other archaeological sites on Viti Levu as well as to experience the beauty of Fiji and its diverse cultures. Courses will be taught by faculty from Simon Fraser University and the University of the South Pacific. All instruction will be in English.
Field School Director: Dr. David Burley
- Program
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The program consists of three courses totalling 12 SFU units. Arrangements can be made for students who have taken one or more of these courses to receive credit for other suitable courses. All instruction will be in English.
ARCH 332-3: Fijian Culture and Heritage
This course examines various topics related to Fijian culture and heritage as well as associated areas in Fijian environment and geography. This course relies largely on guest lecturers from the University of the South Pacific (Suva) and other institutions in Fiji.ARCH 434-3: Archaeological Field Methods
This course provides an introduction to archaeological field methods focusing on the preparation of maps and data recording. Much of this course will be completed at SFU Burnaby prior to departure for Fiji.ARCH 435-6: Field Work Practicum
An introduction to archaeological field methods and a practical application of that knowledge through participation on a research oriented excavation at the Sigatoka Sand Dunes on the Coral Coast of Viti Levu, Fiji. - Dates
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The program begins with 3 weeks at SFU, followed by 7 weeks of coursework and field trips in Fiji. Upon formal close of the field school, participants are encouraged to travel independently.
April TBA
Pre-Departure Orientation May 12 - 28
Course work at SFU Burnaby May 29 - 31 Travel to Suva May 14 - June 18 Study at the University of the South Pacific (Suva) and field trips June 19- July 21 Excavation Project at Sigatoka Sand Dunes
*These dates are provided as guidelines and are subject to change.
- Accommodations
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Students will be resident in three locations while in Fiji – Suva, Levuka and Sigatoka. Accommodation will be in shared rooms with full access to kitchen facilities and all other amenities.
- Costs
- Undergraduate
*Tuition (12 units) $ 1918.69 CAD **Program Fees $5050.00 CAD Total Cost (estimated) $6968.69 CAD
Those students on or approved for student loans are eligible to apply for International Exchange/Field School Bursaries.
* Differential tuition fees are charged for international students.
** Program Fees include international airfare, shared accommodation, in-country travel, field trips, and some group meals. Program fees do not include the cost of meals, independent travel or inoculations. Program costs quoted in Canadian dollars are approximate, and may vary subject to exchange rates, travel, and accommodation cost quotations. Students must pay tuition directly to SFU Student Services by the due date as outlined in the SFU Calendar.Program fees are based on the enrollment of 18 students.
- Eligibility
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In addition to meeting Field School eligibility requirements as stated on the SFU International web site, undergraduate students should have completed 45 units, including one ARCH course, or receive permission from one of the field school instructors. The program will be open to students in all areas, but selection priority will be given to Archaeology majors. Students from other institutions are also encouraged to apply.
- Information Sessions
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Additional information session dates will be posted at Study Abroad Information Sessions & Advising