Question 1

Which institution hosts the Rio Bravo Archaeology Field School?

Accepted Answer

The Rio Bravo Archaeology Field School is hosted by the Community College of Philadelphia (CCP). It operates as an affiliate project under the umbrella of UT-Austin's Programme for Belize Archaeology Project (PfBAP).

Question 2

Can I earn college credit at the Rio Bravo field school in Belize?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Students can earn up to 9 anthropology credits through UT-Austin, transferable to most four-year universities.

Question 3

What are the dates and costs for the Summer 2026 field school?

Accepted Answer

The 2026 summer season runs from approximately mid-May through mid-June. Tuition is approximately $2,400 for the complete 4-week program. Specific fees are updated annually on our Information page.

Question 4

How is Rio Bravo different from other PfBAP affiliate schools?

Accepted Answer

The Rio Bravo program is a distinct field school led by senior archaeologists with a focus on Maya commoner residentia and ritual spaces. Although we share facilities with affiliates like Cal Poly Humboldt and Elon University, we do not focus on elite ancient Maya or monumental architecture.

Question 5

What are the prerequisites for the Rio Bravo Archaeology Field School?

Accepted Answer

There are no strict prerequisites. The program welcomes undergraduate students, graduate students, and adult learners with an interest in archaeology. No prior fieldwork experience is required.

Question 6

What will I learn at the Rio Bravo field school?

Accepted Answer

Students receive hands-on training in archaeological excavation techniques, site survey and mapping, artifact processing and analysis, and Maya civilization studies. Instruction covers both field and laboratory methods.

Question 7

Where do students stay during the field school?

Accepted Answer

Students live at the R.E.W. Adams Research Station in the Programme for Belize, Rio Bravo Conservation Area. The station provides dormitory-style housing, meals, and research facilities in a tropical forest setting.

Question 8

What is included in the Rio Bravo field school tuition?

Accepted Answer

Tuition covers lodging at the research station, all meals during the program, ground transportation within Belize, field equipment, and instruction. Airfare to Belize is not included, nor is the cost of academic credit (purely optional).

Question 9

How do I apply to the Rio Bravo Archaeology Field School?

Accepted Answer

Applications are submitted through the program website. The process typically includes an application form, a brief interview, and academic references. Visit the Application page for current deadlines and requirements.

Question 10

Is the Rio Bravo field school physically demanding?

Accepted Answer

Fieldwork involves moderate physical activity including walking on uneven terrain, working in tropical heat and humidity, and excavation tasks. Students should be prepared for outdoor conditions but no extreme fitness level is required.

Question 11

What archaeological sites are excavated at the Rio Bravo field school?

Accepted Answer

The program focuses on Chawak But'o'ob, an ancient Maya residential and ritual site within the Rio Bravo Conservation Area in northwestern Belize. Specific excavation locations vary by season based on ongoing research goals.