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PAAC Program Introduction
What is PAAC?
Through the Program for Avocational Archaeological Certification (PAAC) we strive to build & connect a community trained to help record, preserve, and advocate for Colorado's archaeological resources. This statewide program offers:
Learning: Expand your knowledge of Colorado archaeology through engaging and enriching online and in-person programming.
Training: Gain skills in recording, preserving, and advocating for cultural resources.
Experience: Participate in research, public outreach, and site stewardship.
Community: Join a network of dedicated individuals passionate about preserving Colorado's past.
PAAC complements but does not replace existing university and governmental training programs.
Why take PAAC classes? What does PAAC do for me?
PAAC empowers you to become an active participant in preserving Colorado's archaeological heritage. Gain valuable skills, connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts who share your passion for archaeology, and contribute to research and preservation efforts. While PAAC certification recognizes your training, it is not a license to conduct independent archaeological work. Instead, it opens doors to exciting volunteer opportunities alongside professional archaeologists.
Who can join the PAAC program?
The PAAC program is open to all! Whether you're a seasoned archaeologist or simply curious about the past, PAAC has something for you. We offer a range of programs, including online lectures, introductory workshops, and professional development opportunities.
What kinds of classes are offered?
PAAC offers a variety of ways to learn about and engage with archaeology! Choose from online lectures, in-person and online workshops, multi-day courses, and hands-on field and laboratory experiences. Earn credits with each class and work your way through our tiered certification program!
| Class Type | Description | Format | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seminar Lectures | Attend lectures on various topics | Online, in-person | 0.5 per qualifying lecture |
| Workshops | Participate in interactive workshops | Online, in-person | 2-4 |
| Extended Classes | Take multi-day courses for in-depth learning | Online | 6+ |
| Field Experience | Gain hands-on experience on professionally-led archaeological projects | In-person | Varies by project |
| Laboratory Experience | Volunteer in the Emery Archaeology Laboratory and contribute to preservation | In-person | 1 credit per 16 lab hours |
How do I earn certification?
Advance your archaeological knowledge and skills with PAAC's tiered certification system! Earn credits by taking our classes, and progress through the tiers as you gain experience. Previous PAAC participants will receive credit for their prior coursework. Maintaining certification requires adherence to the PAAC Code of Ethics, which ensures responsible and ethical conduct.
| Certification Tiers | Cumulative Credit Hours Required |
|---|---|
| Tier 1 - Magic Mountain Level | 10 credit hours |
| Tier 2 - Lindenmeier Level | 20 credit hours |
| Tier 3 - Paint Mines Level | 30 credit hours |
| Tier 4 - Yarmony Level | 50 credit hours |
| Tier 5 - Cliff Palace Level | 70 credit hours |
| Tier 6 - Claypool Level | 100 credit hours |
| Tier 7 - Jones Miller Level | 150 credit hours |
| Tier 8 - Dent Level | 200 + credit hours |
Is there a fee?
A small fee is required at registration for some programs, including certain online content. These fees help us to provide enriching and engaging public archaeology experiences, from in-person workshops to online content.
Current PAAC Workshops
This is a list of some of our currently available in-person classes. To request a class be offered in your area, please reach out to hc_publicarchaeology@state.co.us. Classes not listed below may be offered, if requested.
- Basic Lithic Analysis Workshop
Description: This hands-on workshop is designed for participants of all experience levels who want to build confidence in the fundamentals of chipped stone analysis. During this workshop, participants move from core concepts to practical application. The workshop introduces raw material identification, the mechanics of stone tool production, and how to recognize key flake attributes. During a hands-on lab session, participants will practice classifying debitage and formal tools, learn standard measurement and recording techniques, and explore how lithic data relate to human behavior, technological choices, and cultural patterns. The two-day option for this workshop also incorporates flintknapping practice for some additional hands-on experience.
PAAC Credit: 2 credit hours (one-day workshop), 4 credit hours (two-day workshop)
- National & State Register Workshop
Description: This workshop focuses on the preparation of nominations for the Colorado State Register of Historic Properties and the National Register of Historic Places. Participants are provided with a thorough understanding of the nomination process, including eligibility criteria, documentation requirements, and submission procedures. This workshop combines detailed presentation, discussion, and individualized guidance on nomination preparation.
PAAC Credit: 2 credit hours (one-day workshop), 4 credit hours (two-day workshop)
- Historical Archaeology Workshop
Description: This intensive, hands-on workshop explores the fundamentals of historical archaeology. Participants will learn how to identify and analyze key artifact types likes ceramics and glass. Using the Fariss Hotel collection as a hands-on case study, participants will discover how everyday objects connect us with Colorado's vibrant past. This workshop is ideal for history and archaeology enthusiasts, students and lifelong learners, and anyone with a passion for the past. No prior experience is required.
PAAC Credit: 2 credit hours (one-day workshop), 4 credit hours (two-day workshop)
- Zooarchaeology Basics Workshop
Description: This hands-on workshop introduces the fundamentals of zooarchaeology, the study of animal remains from archaeological sites. Participants will learn basic vertebrate skeletal anatomy, identify common skeletal elements and animal groups, and recognize natural and cultural modifications to bone, including weathering, burning, gnawing, and butchery marks. Through practical exercises, participants will gain experience identifying faunal remains and understanding what they can reveal about past human behavior, diet, environment, and site use. The course will also cover best practices for the recovery, documentation, and curation of faunal remains in archaeological contexts. This workshop is open to all experience levels. No prior zooarchaeological experience is required.
PAAC Credit: 2 credit hours (one-day workshop), 4 credit hours (two-day workshop)
- Site Stewardship Workshop
Description: This workshop provides an introduction to archaeological advocacy through site stewardship. Participants will learn about the principal mission of preservation and primary activities of a site steward including the observation, documentation, and reporting of the condition of cultural resources in Colorado.
PAAC Credit: 2 credit hours (one-day workshop), 4 credit hours (two-day workshop)