Expert: Ralph Salier - 9/3/2009

Question
I'm currently  a college freshmen majoring in music education, but with the economy the way it is their aren't many jobs out there and I've always wanted to be an archeologist; and my question is do you believe that it could be a good switch (I figure it's probably a better idea to ask a professional than to ask my friends) and if so what schools would you recommend. Thank you very much!!

Answer
Hi Jess,

Archaeology is in the "hole" at the moment.  Not a good alternative in my view.  Music Education is a good field as is science education and Math education.  These are in good demand in the south.  Here in Texas  there is an ongoing need for all three.  My daughter is a high school science teacher with a BA in Biology and a MA in secondary Science Ed.  She has so many job offers, she gets to pick an choose.  

With a BA in anthropology/archaeology you get to be a shovel bum.  This means that you will make 10 to 15 dollars an hour on long hot summer days in the middle of no where.  WIth an MA, you can get real jobs with consulting firms but will still spend long days out on sites supervising workers.  A PhD would also provide more steady work but also makes you over qualified for every thing else.  

Have you considered forensics?  Or economics or arg..... Accounting or forensic accounting?  

I wouldn't give up on the music just yet......