The program consists of 9.0 to 18.0 credit hours of graduate semester courses, a co-op program semester, and a thesis.​ It is based on a co-operative education model that integrates real-world work experience with classroom and research-driven learning. The archaeological training received during the program prepares students not only for local careers but also international opportunities. Students gain transferable academic and occupational background, which can be applied in any archaeological context. The major integrates a range of theoretical approaches from a variety of disciplines with practical experience, and incorporates course work and thesis work within a unique co-op-based learning program where students work in industry. Co-operative education and internship opportunities provide paid work experience in appropriate employment fields for students. These value-added activities provide enriching experiences and professional development opportunities for students. This major requires a co-operative work term as a degree requirement. Students may elect to complete a second co-operative work term as part of their degree in order to earn a co-op designation.

Applicants normally must meet the following requirements: Hold an undergraduate degree in a related discipline; Have a minimum grade point average of 3.00 (based on the uLethbridge 4.00 scale) on the last 20 graded university-level term courses; Demonstrate English language proficiency (ELP) for graduate student; Secure a potential supervisor (except for Economics major). Because the capacity of the program is limited, not all students who meet the minimum admission requirements can be admitted. Criteria used for admission include: Your record and letters of recommendation; Your proposed supervisor’s record of scholarship, completed and current, especially in relation to your proposed work; The feasibility of your project in the light of available resources; Your financial support.