Department of Archaeology
Introduction
The concept of exploration, documentation and excavation of the archaeological heritage of Indo-Pakistan region originated in the 18th century. Over time, the Archaeological Survey of India was established in 1861, which until 1947, made significant contributions to the development of archaeology as a recognized and attractive field of research. After the independence of Pakistan, archaeology was formally introduced as an academic discipline at the college and university level. As the Swat Valley is exceptionally rich in archaeological remains, spanning from prehistoric times to the early Islamic era, the University of Swat launch a BS degree program in this discipline under the umbrella of the Institute of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Hospitality in 2018.
However, in 2025, the Institute of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Hospitality Management, University of Swat, was bifurcated into the Department of Tourism and Hospitality and the Department of Archaeology. The Department of Archaeology has now formally started academic activities from fall semester 2025 in the academic Block-B of the University.
The University of Swat has signed Memorandum of Understanding with the Directorate General of Archaeology and Museums, Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and with the Italian Archaeological Mission to Pakistan. In view of these agreements, the Department of Archaeology is expected to emerge as one of the prominent departments of the University in conducting exploration, excavation, conservation, and joint research publications with the concerned stakeholders.
The scheme of studies of the Department of Archaeology has been designed in accordance with the New Undergraduate Education Policy of the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan (effective from Spring 2025). It incorporates all the courses required under the HEC policy, including General Education, Disciplinary, Major, Interdisciplinary, and Elective courses. In addition, students will have the opportunity for internships, capstone projects, field-related experiences, museum management training, and the writing of research papers.
Vision
To become a leading department in archaeological research, education, and heritage management in Pakistan, with a special focus on the Swat Valley and the wider Indo-Pakistan region, by fostering global collaborations, advancing innovative methods of exploration, excavation, and conservation, and contributing to the preservation of cultural heritage for future generations.
Mission
The BS Archaeology program at the University of Swat has been launched with the following missions.
- To prepare skilled professionals in the fields of Archaeology and Cultural Heritage Management capable of addressing emerging challenges in these disciplines.
- To equip students with advanced knowledge and skills required for the protection and promotion of cultural resources of the region.
- To prepare graduates with diverse competencies who can contribute as policymakers and entrepreneurs in the future.
- To integrate the cultural heritage sector with the tourism industry, for developing the area as an Archaeological tourism destination.
- To develop students’ ability to demonstrate knowledge, apply skills, and communicate ideas effectively.
- To build professional competencies in exploration, documentation, excavation, and conservation of archaeological sites and monuments of Pakistan.
- To support human resource development by providing students with advanced and updated knowledge in archaeology.
- To prepare students to address legal issues related to cultural heritage in accordance with national legislation and international charters.
Strategic Plan for Achieving Program Objectives
To accomplish the above objectives, the program will adopt the following strategic elements:
- A modern curriculum, designed in accordance with HEC guidelines and international trends, to prepare professionals for emerging challenges in Archaeology and Cultural Heritage Management.
- Inclusion of conservation and field-oriented courses with a strong focus on archaeological knowledge of the region.
- Specialized courses on the preservation, protection, and promotion of archaeological sites and monuments.
- Study of contemporary issues related to cultural heritage.
- Regular field visits to archaeological sites and museums across Pakistan.
- Active participation of students in workshops, seminars, excavation projects, and preservation initiatives.
- Integration of theoretical knowledge with practical training and co-curricular activities.
- Case studies, discussions, and task-oriented assignments to provide hands-on professional exposure.
- A combined theoretical and practical framework to develop technically proficient human resources.
- Courses on conservation and preservation skills to prepare students for professional practice in handling cultural assets.
- Comprehensive study of cultural heritage laws and charters to enable graduates to manage legal issues effectively during fieldwork.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the BS Archaeology program, graduates will be able to:
- Demonstrate a sound understanding of the basic concepts of Archaeology and the Cultural Heritage of Pakistan.
- Apply their knowledge to protect and promote the cultural and natural resources of the region.
- Identify and decipher ancient inscriptions on coins, birch bark manuscripts, stone slabs, pottery, rocks, and boulders.
- Analyze and interpret the ancient art and architecture of Pakistan.
- Demonstrate knowledge of early Islamic art, architecture, numismatics, and epigraphy.
- Understand the principles of Museology and apply museum-related knowledge in professional contexts.
- Undertake major research projects, explorations, and excavations independently or as part of a team.
- Pursuing careers in higher education institutions, research organizations, and governmental institutions.
Eligibility
Eligibility criteria for BS Archaeology: Intermediate or equivalent qualification with at least 45% marks.
- BS Archaeology
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Dr. Zarawar KhanGold Medalist |
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Mr. Muhammad WaliullahLecturer |
Inauguration of the Uḍḍiyāna Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology at the University of Swat
Th Uḍḍiyāna Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology was inaugurated on October 15, 2025, at the University of Swat under the Institute of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Hospitality Management (ICHTHM). The ceremony was performed by Prof. Dr. Hassan Sher (SAARC Gold Medalist), the Honourable Vice Chancellor University of Swat, and attended by Prof. Syed Jamal Shah, Chairman Hunerkada, Islamabad, Prof. Dr. Anwar Hussain, Dean Faculty of Management and Social Sciences, University of Swat, Dr. Zarawar Khan, In-Charge ICHTHM, Dr. Aatif Iqbal, Lecturer in Tourism and Hospitality at the ICHTHM, Prof. Dr. Hazrat Bilal, Chairman Center for Management & Commerce, Dr. Lutfullah, Chairman Department of Law & Sharia, along with students of Archaeology and Tourism & Hospitality, University of Swat.
The Museum has been established to preserve and conserve archaeological and ethnological artifacts from the Swat Valley, aiming to educate the students and the public about the region’s cultural heritage. Dr. Zarawar Khan highlighted the global importance of museums as non-profit institutions for knowledge and cultural enrichment.
