PL. 1Mohenjo-daro, Sindh · the Great Bath and the Stupa mound

Online Course · Self-Paced

Fundamentals of Archaeology

Unearth humanity's origins through scientific evidence

A comprehensive introduction to archaeology—from prehistoric sites like Bori to the Indus Valley civilization. Learn excavation techniques, dating methods, and how physical evidence reveals the story of human civilization. Move beyond speculation into the science of reconstruction.

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₹1,800

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  • 10 LecturesVideo Content
  • ~12 HoursDuration
  • BeginnerLevel
  • EnglishLanguage
  • CertificateFrom BORI

Course Overview

Why Archaeology Matters

Archaeology works with evidence that stands firm against speculation. It reveals how humans built, lived, created and believed through the physical traces preserved in landscapes, soils, and stones.

This course provides a scientific lens to decode this evidence. Move beyond memorising dates into understanding how history is reconstructed, corrected and rediscovered.

The Indian subcontinent holds one of the richest archaeological records on Earth, extending from prehistoric landscapes to complex urban civilisations. From Bori in Pune district to Odisha and the Upper Ganga valley—this course places India within a global narrative of human innovation, while spotlighting what makes the subcontinent extraordinary.

Ideal for —students of archaeology, history and anthropology; UPSC aspirants seeking evidence-based foundations; museum and heritage enthusiasts; and curious minds who value science over speculation. No prior technical background required.

Designed and delivered by Dr. Pramod Joglekar, Director of the Infosys Academic Program at BORI.

Learning Outcomes

What You Will Explore

  • F.01Prehistoric sites like Bori and key north-south corridors of human migration and adaptation in India
  • F.02Dating techniques, faunal analysis, seeds, pollen, forensic signatures and climate clues—the science under the soil
  • F.03How ceramics, architecture, burials and residues reveal social transformation through the science of reconstruction
  • F.04The Indus Valley Civilization sites and other unique archaeological sites from India and abroad
  • F.05The icons of archaeology—pioneers who uncovered lost civilisations and shaped this science globally and in India
  • F.06Heritage ethics and interpretation—responsible archaeology and how raw data transforms into historical narrative

Course Structure

Complete Curriculum

  1. 01What is Archaeology and How It Is Related to Our Past?
  2. 02Stages of Archaeology
  3. 03Archaeological Sites and Records
  4. 04Branches of Archaeology - Part 1
  5. 05Branches of Archaeology - Part 2
  6. 06Methods of Finding Sites and Excavation Techniques
  7. 07Methods of Digging, Artefacts and Ecofacts
  8. 08Physical Sciences in Archaeology
  9. 09Biological Sciences in Archaeology
  10. 10Pseudo-Archaeology
Dr. Pramod Joglekar

Your Instructor

Dr. Pramod Joglekar

Archaeologist & Researcher

Dr. Pramod Joglekar is a veteran archaeologist with decades of experience in teaching, research, on-site excavation and scientific interpretation of excavated remains. His work spans prehistoric sites across India, contributing significantly to our understanding of early human settlement patterns.

Currently serving as Director of the Infosys Academic Program at the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute, Dr. Joglekar is a widely published scholar and author whose expertise bridges fieldwork and academic interpretation.

  • Decades of Field Experience
  • Published Scholar
  • BORI Director

Questions

Common Questions

Do I need any prior knowledge of archaeology?

No prior technical background is required. This course is designed as a comprehensive introduction, building systematically from foundational concepts. All technical terms are explained in context.

What is archaeology?

Archaeology is the scientific study of human history and prehistory through the excavation and analysis of physical remains—artifacts, structures, and environmental data. It provides evidence-based insights into how past societies lived, worked, and evolved.

Is this course relevant for UPSC preparation?

Yes. This course provides evidence-based foundations for understanding Indian history and civilization, particularly useful for Ancient Indian History topics in UPSC. It goes beyond textbook facts to explain how historical knowledge is established through archaeological evidence.

How long do I have access to the course?

You have lifetime access to all course materials. Watch at your own pace, revisit any lecture whenever you wish, and return to refresh your knowledge anytime.

Is there a certificate?

Yes, upon completing the course you will receive a verified certificate from BharatVidya and BORI that you can share on LinkedIn or include in your professional portfolio.

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Evidence that stands firm against speculation

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Start the Course

Lifetime access · BORI certificate · Self-paced