Classical Archaeology (M.A.)

The study programme serves to deepen the knowledge of the material and pictorial tradition of the ancient Mediterranean cultures as well as the knowledge of their contacts with their neighbours. Students acquire analytical skills in the scientific handling of archaeological findings and pictorial works, in particular visual competences and an awareness of the medial properties of historical sources.

The Göttingen Master's programme "Classical Archaeology" is characterised by an emphasis on cultural studies issues. The focus is on the methodically reflected combination of material-oriented archaeological analysis of exemplary findings and contextually emphasised historical synthesis. The students are enabled to critically receive historical explanatory models, to independently develop syntheses of complex historical and social facts and to present them in an appropriate language.

Favoured by the institute's own collections, especially the collection of plaster casts (with over 2000 objects one of the largest institutions of its kind worldwide), a traditional research focus of the Göttingen Archaeological Institute is on ancient sculpture, especially Greek and Roman portrait sculpture. Further research focuses on the archaeology of southern Italy, ancient funerary culture and the archaeological history of science. Scientific methods are also used, for example to determine the origin of ceramics.

During the regularly offered excursions, excavations and surveys, students can get to know important ancient sites and acquire practical skills. Those who would also like to gain experience abroad can not only participate in the Erasmus programme, but even acquire a double degree from the universities of Göttingen and Palermo. As part of the double degree, students spend one semester in Sicily. In this way, students improve their language skills and get to know the island of Sicily with its numerous important ancient sites and museums better, in addition to a different academic culture.

Students who are particularly interested in the professional field of museums can also study the specialisation "Museum" from the winter semester 2022/2023. Two museum internships, practical and theoretical courses on museum work as well as special forms of examination allow students to acquire the relevant skills for entering the profession.

Graduates of the Masters work in many fields: Museum, heritage conservation, youth and adult education, cultural and educational management, publishing houses, press, new media, diplomatic institutions, international organisations etc.

The degree programme also provides the prerequisite for further qualification in the field of archaeological research and teaching within the framework of a doctoral programme.

Resourceful minds are already working in a wide variety of fields!