Center for Archaeology and Society

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The Center for Archaeology and Society (CAS) at Arizona State University is a hub for collections care, education, public outreach, and research within the School of Human Evolution and Social Change (SHESC). CAS brings together SHESC initiatives focused on anthropological collections, student training, community engagement and archaeological research in the U.S. Southwest and surrounding regions.

CAS is committed to advancing the ASU Charter by embracing our responsibility to the communities we serve. Leveraging ASU’s place in the U.S. Southwest, we co-create programs with local partners, pursue solution-oriented research, provide critical job training, and foster partnerships that connect the university to real-world community needs. At its core, CAS is dedicated to building and expanding strong relationships across the region through programs, policies and research developed in partnership with the communities whose material heritage we steward.

Stewarding Cultural Heritage

We steward archaeological and ethnographic collections, ensuring their long-term preservation, culturally appropriate care, and return to descendant communities where appropriate.

Hands-On Education and Training

Through internships, field schools, and specialized programs, CAS prepares students for impactful careers in archaeology, museum studies, and heritage management.

Transformative Research in the U.S. Southwest

We support interdisciplinary research rooted in archaeology, history, and community collaboration. From field and lab analyses to digital innovation and archival studies, our work explores ancient lifeways and connects them to contemporary issues like sustainability, technological change, and restorative justice.

Community Partnerships

CAS seeks to builds strong, reciprocal relationships with descendant and local communities to ensure our work reflects diverse voices and priorities.

Public Engagement and Outreach

We create exhibits, school programs, public events, and publications to share archaeological insights and make the past accessible to everyone.

Digital Tools for Heritage and Data Access

Our team develops cutting-edge digital platforms to make archaeological data more findable, usable, and collaborative.

CAS Student Research Grant

Apply for the CAS Research Grant, generously supported by the Roger O. And Janet K. Williams Fund Endowment.
We will award up to $1900 to support student research projects or participation in training opportunities focused on the archaeology and history of Arizona

Applications Due September 26th, 2025

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News and Events

Upcoming Talk - Date TBA

We are happy to welcome Hopi Tribal Historic Preservation Officer Stewart Koyiyumptewa along wtih Wes Bernardini, and Gregson Schachner to talk about the Becoming Hopi project and the history of collaborative archaeology at Hopi.

Event Details

Arizona based opportunities for aspiring archaeologists

MCC and ASU team up to provide invaluable field experience to archaeology students.

Read at ASU News

New MA in museum studies offers contemporary, inclusive approach

New degree to be offered by ASU's School of Human Evolution and Social Change

Read at ASU News

Anthropological Collections Internship

Learn about opportunities to intern in anthropological collections and contribute to federal compliance for NAGPRA

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Research apprenticeships

Learn more about undergraduate research apprenticeship opportunities, both in person and online.

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Collections Care and NAGPRA Training

Learn about the ASB 484 course designed to give students hands-on experience in collections care and federal compliance.

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