Introduction

Part 1 course details Part 2 course details Part 3 course details

Part 4 course details Course Dates State Tutors

The Australian Institute for Maritime Archaeology (AIMA), in conjunction with the Nautical Archaeology Society (NAS - United Kingdom), is now teaching a 4 part course series on maritime archaeology. This internationally recognised course is being currently run in the UK, South Africa, Canada and the USA.

The Nautical Archaeology Society is an international society which based in the UK. One of the stated aims of the Nautical Archaeology Society is to advance education in maritime archaeology at all levels. The NAS has put this into practice by introducing a structured training scheme open to both divers and non-divers. It was designed and developed by archaeologists and recreational divers working together, and has proved to be an effective way to learn basic archaeological skills for use underwater.

The general aim of the course is to introduce the methods and procedures employed in underwater archaeology, as well as to generate awareness regarding shipwreck preservation in our country.

On completion of each of the courses, students are awarded an AIMA/NAS certificate which is internationally recognised.

top of page

Part I

A 2 day introduction to maritime archaeology which includes at least 8 hours of classwork in addition to practical work underwater and on land.

The Part 1 course is a general introduction to maritime archaeology which focuses on aspects such as pre-disturbance, or in other words, non-intrusive surveys of shipwreck sites.

The course structure includes :

The Part 1 course is generally run over a weekend, with a theoretical lecture component and with simulated land exercises. Underwater exercises can also be conducted with those who have diving experience. Being able to dive, however; is not a requirement for attending this course. The cost of Part I varies between $120 - $160 depending on the cost of venue hire. Those who complete Part I will receive AIMA Associate membership for one year. This is normally backdated to 1st July but for courses after 1st April participants can opt for membership commencing in the following July.

Photo: WA Maritime Museum

top of page

Part II

The attendance of a Survey Day School, or lecture series, the equivalent of 2 days attendance at archaeology conferences and the completion of a short project.

The minimum requirement for the completion of Part II is the attendance of 7 approved lectures relevant to maritime archaeology, OR a Survey Day school which includes 2 lectures and practical survey work. Some of the Survey Day schools will be carried out above water to cater for non-divers. All participants are required to submit a satisfactory report on a short survey project undertaken by themselves. Participants are also required to attend the equivalent of a 2 day conference in order to gain a background knowledge of current work in the field of maritime archaeology.

Part 2 project report example:
ps Rainbow by Sean McMahon.

top of page

Part III

The accumulation of 100 contact hours of tuition in six or seven subject areas.

The 100 contact hours can be accrued through special field schools of one or more weeks and/or through a number of weekend workshops.

Part IV

The presentation of an extended portfolio of work on an approved subject/project, including a report to publication standard.

The Part IV graduate will also have to have done a minimum of 12 weeks total on at least three sites since beginning Part II.

top of page

Course Dates

Part 1 AIMA/NAS courses

• 18-19 July 2009 (Saturday/Sunday)at the Heritage Branch, 3 Marist Place, Parramatta
• 5-6 September 2009 at the Australian National Maritime Museum in Darling Harbour

For enquiries and bookings contact State Tutor, Cassandra Philippou - Ph:03 8644 8941 M: 0428 508 881 cassandra.philippou@dpcd.vic.gov.au

For enquiries and bookings contact State Tutor, Corioli Souter - Ph:08 9431 8448 or 9431 8488 corioli.souter@museum.wa.gov.au

For enquiries and bookings contact State Tutor, Jason Raupp - Ph:08 8201 5533 jason.raupp@flinders.edu.au

For enquiries and bookings contact State Tutor, Bill Jeffery - Ph: 07 4781 5858 or 07 4778 5513 william.jeffery1@jcu.edu.au

State Tutors

The AIMA/NAS training courses are coordinated by the Senior Tutor, currently David Nutley, who is supported by designated State Tutors. State Tutors coordinate courses conducted within their State/Territory, (or New Zealand). Courses may be organised by Tutors or even by people who are not associated with AIMA so long as the courses are approved by the State Tutor and instruction is provided by a Certified AIMA/NAS Tutor or Tutors.

top of page