Program Overview

Introduction to the Maritime Studies Program

The Maritime Studies Program at East Carolina University is a leading academic underwater archaeology program that has grown significantly since its inception in 1982. The program is characterized by hands-on underwater training, primary document historical research, and practical skills such as remote sensing and grant writing.

Program Overview

The program has graduated over 266 MA students, with an overall graduation rate of 71%. Most graduates have gone on to secure jobs in the field as:

• Contract archaeologists
• Government cultural resource managers
• Museum archaeologists
• Curators
• Museum directors
• National and state park staff
• Conservators
• Teachers at all levels

University Support

Qualified students receive extensive university support in the form of graduate assistantships and scholarships, which provide both teaching and research experience.

Program Staff and Expertise

The program staff includes professors with national and international reputations in research excellence, comprising:

• Eight full-time Ph.D. archaeologists and historians
• Six technicians
• A fully staffed Diving and Boating Safety Office with a well-maintained fleet of research vessels The program's expertise includes cutting-edge remote sensing and archaeological survey techniques, which attract employers. Professors have written over 30 academic press books and numerous articles and site reports, primarily focusing on North American underwater archaeology projects.

Research Areas

The program's research areas geographically range from:

• Bermuda
• The middle of the Pacific Ocean
• The Caribbean Sea
• Lake Superior

Career Opportunities

The program offers a unique opportunity to combine a love of exploration, ship and sea-faring history, and archaeology, with a large network of working alumni. The program takes pride in its solid academics and growing web of working professionals, resulting in outstanding job placement after graduation.