Master of Archaeology

go to a list of Masters programmes in Archaeology

Study content

An archaeologist knees down in the dust, wearing a long-sleeved beige shirt and trousers, brushing away dirt and pebbles from historic artifacts. Who does not know the image of archaeological excavation under the sun and in the heat of deserts and fields? But archaeologists are also responsible in exploring human history – societal and natural. As an archaeologist you mainly study the era of human existence, but also look back at the era of dinosaurs.

Hence, your prospective field of expertise is diverse. Among your study, you focus on lifestyle, architecture, spiritual meanings and belief of bygone cultures. Contrary to the classic postgraduate programmes in history, your Master of Archaeology allows to follow a hands-on programme. Not only do you derive your knowledge and information from literature sources, but you handle real historic artifacts. Some describe the Master of Archaeology as a more practical postgraduate programme among the various history degrees on offer.

In order to conduct the practical elements of the course, the Master of Archaeology is conceptualised in an interdisciplinary manner. Apart from humanities and social sciences, scientific methodology from biology and chemistry belong to your curriculum, teaching you the identification and spatial positioning of your findings.

Programme structure of the Masters degree in Archaeology

The postgraduate degree course in Archaeology usually leaves room for a study period abroad. Especially the practical exploration of historic artifacts may be interesting at a partner university or in a foreign country.

You will be given the academic title of Master of Arts in Archaeology, once you successfully accomplish the two-year study period. The admission criteria varies at different universities. Therefore, we advise you to directly contact the university of your choice.

Overview of postgraduate programmes: