Archaeology: Archaeology of the Mediterranean and Near East

The Master's program in Archaeology: Archaeology of the Mediterranean and Near East at Leiden University offers students an intensive and comprehensive education in the archaeology, history, and cultural heritage of some of the most historically significant regions in the world. This specialized program is designed for students who wish to deepen their understanding of ancient civilizations, their material remains, and their social and cultural contexts, focusing specifically on the Mediterranean Basin and the Near East. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical training, enabling students to develop core archaeological skills such as excavation, artifact analysis, and contextual interpretation, alongside advanced methods in archaeological database management, scientific dating techniques, and digital presentation. Throughout the program, students will explore diverse topics ranging from early urbanism and state formation to trade networks, religion, and daily life in ancient societies. They will also gain insight into conservation practices, archaeological ethics, and heritage management, preparing them for careers in academia, cultural heritage institutions, museums, or fieldwork.

The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating archaeology with history, anthropology, and philology to provide a broad perspective on ancient Mediterranean and Near Eastern societies. Students have access to Leiden’s extensive collections, research facilities, and ongoing excavations, which offer invaluable practical experience. The program includes opportunities for research projects, internships, and international fieldwork, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts. Leiden University’s renowned faculty comprises experts in Mediterranean and Near Eastern archaeology, ensuring students receive high-quality supervision and mentorship. Upon graduation, students will be equipped with the critical analytical skills and contextual understanding necessary to pursue further research or professional work in archaeology, heritage management, or related fields. With its unique geographical focus and interdisciplinary approach, this Master’s program prepares students to become knowledgeable and competent archaeologists, capable of making significant contributions to the understanding and preservation of the ancient Mediterranean and Near Eastern past.

The Master's programme in Archaeology: Archaeology of the Mediterranean and Near East at Leiden University offers a comprehensive and specialized education in the study of ancient civilizations that flourished around the Mediterranean basin and the Near Eastern region. This programme is designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the archaeological, historical, and cultural developments of these regions from prehistoric times through the late antique periods. Students will engage with a diverse range of archaeological methods, theoretical approaches, and material analyses to gain a holistic view of the ancient societies that shaped world history.

Throughout the programme, students will explore topics such as settlement patterns, art and symbolism, funerary practices, and the development of writing systems, among others. Emphasis is placed on both traditional excavation techniques and cutting-edge technologies like GIS, remote sensing, and material analysis, enabling students to acquire practical skills necessary for fieldwork and research. The curriculum is structured to promote critical thinking, analytical skills, and innovative approaches to archaeological research, preparing graduates for careers in academia, archaeology organizations, cultural heritage management, or further academic research.

In addition to coursework, students have the opportunity to participate in excavations, workshops, and internships to gain hands-on experience. The programme's interdisciplinary approach encourages collaboration with specialists in history, anthropology, and classical studies, enriching the learning experience and broadening academic perspectives. Leiden’s rich archaeological collections and its strategic location offer unparalleled access to regional sites and resources, enhancing field research opportunities.

Graduates of this programme will be equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to analyze artefacts, interpret archaeological data, and communicate findings effectively. The programme also prepares students for doctoral research, offering a solid foundation for those who wish to pursue an academic career. Overall, the Archaeology of the Mediterranean and Near East at Leiden University provides an in-depth academic environment dedicated to understanding and preserving the rich archaeological heritage of these historically significant regions.

The Master’s programme in Archaeology: Archaeology of the Mediterranean and Near East at Leiden University is designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the archaeological heritage of these regions. The programme requires students to complete a total of 60 European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) credits over the course of one year. The curriculum is divided into several core components, including compulsory courses, elective courses, practical training, and a master's thesis. The compulsory courses typically cover theoretical approaches, methodological techniques, and chronological frameworks relevant to Mediterranean and Near Eastern archaeology, ensuring students acquire a solid foundation in archaeological theory and practice.

Elective courses allow students to tailor their studies to specific interests within the broader discipline, such as archaeometallurgy, ancient texts, or regional case studies. Practical components often include fieldwork exercises, internships, or laboratory work, enabling students to develop hands-on skills essential for archaeological research and heritage management. The thesis component is a substantial research project that involves independent investigation into a specific archaeological topic within the regions of interest. Students are required to formulate research questions, conduct field or library research, analyze findings, and produce a scholarly thesis that contributes to academic discourse.

Admission to the programme generally requires a relevant Bachelor’s degree in Archaeology, Heritage Studies, or related disciplines, with a strong academic record. Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English, typically through standardized tests such as IELTS or TOEFL. The programme is suitable for students who wish to pursue careers in archaeological research, cultural heritage management, museum work, or further academic study. Throughout the programme, students benefit from access to Leiden University’s extensive archaeological libraries, research facilities, and close collaboration with experts in Mediterranean and Near Eastern archaeology. Graduates will have developed critical analytical skills, regional expertise, and practical competencies necessary for professional archaeological work.

Program requirements include the successful completion of all coursework with passing grades, the satisfactory completion of practical training components, and the submission and defense of the master’s thesis. To remain in good academic standing, students must adhere to the university’s regulations and maintain a minimum academic performance, as specified in the programme guidelines. Upon completion of the programme, graduates receive a Master of Arts (MA) degree in Archaeology, which qualifies them for doctoral research or employment within cultural heritage institutions, research organizations, or related fields. The entire programme is conducted in English and is designed to prepare students for both scholarly and professional careers in Mediterranean and Near Eastern archaeology.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Archaeology: Archaeology of the Mediterranean and Near East master's program at Leiden University offers a variety of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Here, students can explore several avenues to fund their education, including government financial support, scholarships, personal savings, and possibly loan options. International students are advised to investigate their home country’s scholarship programs or loans that may be applicable for study abroad. Leiden University provides specific scholarships for international students, such as the Leiden University Excellence Scholarships (LexS), which are awarded based on academic merit. Additionally, students from the European Union may be eligible for student grants or loans depending on their national policies. The university recommends that students also seek external scholarships offered by their governments, private foundations, and international organizations aimed at supporting students in the humanities and social sciences. Work opportunities may be limited due to the intensive nature of the program; however, some students may consider part-time jobs, either on-campus or nearby, to supplement their income. It is important for prospective students to plan their finances well in advance and contact the university’s financial aid office for personalized advice and detailed information about available funding options. Given that the program is taught in English and attracts international students, quality support and guidance on finding scholarships or financial aid are an integral part of the university’s services. Students should also keep in mind that tuition fees may vary based on nationality and residence status, and they should check the latest fee structures announced by Leiden University. Overall, financing a master's degree in Archaeology at Leiden University involves a combination of personal resources, scholarships, and possibly external funding, all of which require careful planning and early application to ensure a smooth financial pathway throughout the course of study.

The Archaeology of the Mediterranean and Near East programme at Leiden University offers an in-depth exploration of ancient civilizations that thrived in these historically significant regions. This master's degree is designed for students interested in understanding the cultural, historical, and archaeological developments of the Mediterranean Basin and the Near East from prehistoric times through the classical period and into the early medieval era. The programme provides a comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical approaches with practical skills, including archaeological methods, artifact analysis, and fieldwork techniques. Students have the opportunity to study a wide range of topics such as ancient trade routes, religious practices, monumental architecture, and social organization, facilitated by Leiden’s extensive archaeological collections and research facilities.

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, hands-on training, and field projects that may include excavations in relevant archaeological sites or internships with museums and archaeological institutes. Interdisciplinary in nature, the master's encourages students to integrate archaeological evidence with historical texts, environmental data, and anthropological perspectives to develop a nuanced understanding of ancient societies. Leiden’s strong emphasis on research ensures that students are equipped with essential skills in archaeological documentation, data analysis, and academic writing, preparing them for careers in academia, cultural heritage management, or archaeological consultancy.

Students can choose to focus on specific regions within the Mediterranean and Near East, such as Egypt, Anatolia, Greece, Rome, or the Levant, allowing for specialization according to academic interests. Language training is also a component of the programme, supporting students in accessing primary sources and conducting research in relevant ancient languages. The Leiden Archaeology of the Mediterranean and Near East programme benefits from faculty expertise, a vibrant academic community, and collaborations with international research projects. Graduates of this programme are well-equipped to contribute to archaeological research, cultural heritage preservation, or further academic pursuits within this specialized field of archaeology.