Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - ARCH 348 D100

Archaeological Conservation (4)

Class Number: 6840

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Thu, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Instructor:

    Cara Tremain
    ctremain@sfu.ca
    Office: EDB 9619
    Office Hours: Mondays 2-3pm, or by appointment

  • Prerequisites:

    Six units in Archaeology, including ARCH 101 or ARCH 201.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to archaeological conservation, the processes affecting the condition of archaeological materials prior to excavation, during excavation, during analysis, exhibition and during reposition. Successful completion of this course will give archaeologists a good understanding of the various materials they encounter during excavation and how to preserve these artifacts and other materials. It will not qualify students to be professional archaeological conservators.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course is a basic introduction to archaeological conservation, the processes affecting the condition of archaeological materials prior to excavation, during excavation, during analysis, exhibition and during reposition. Successful completion of this course will give archaeologists a good understanding of the materials they excavate and how to preserve artifacts and other materials. It will not qualify students to be professional archaeological conservators.

Grading

  • Midterm 30%
  • Final Exam 30%
  • Lab Worksheets 20%
  • Personal Project 20%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Weekly required readings will be provided via Canvas.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who may need class or exam accommodations, including in the context of remote learning, are advised to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) as soon as possible to ensure that they are eligible and that approved accommodations and services are implemented in a timely fashion.

Deferred grades will be given only on the basis of authenticated medical disability.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.