Egyptology

The Bachelor of Arts in Egyptology at the University of Geneva offers students a comprehensive and in-depth study of ancient Egyptian civilization, language, history, and culture. This innovative three-year programme is designed to equip students with the fundamental skills necessary to understand and interpret the rich legacy of one of the world's most fascinating ancient societies. Throughout the programme, students will immerse themselves in the hieroglyphic language, exploring its structure, grammar, and vocabulary, enabling them to read and translate original texts from archaeological sites and ancient manuscripts. The curriculum combines linguistic training with broad historical and archaeological perspectives, providing a well-rounded understanding of Egypt's development from prehistoric times through the Greco-Roman period.

Students will have access to an extensive range of courses covering key aspects of Egyptology, including Egypt’s religion, mythology, art, architecture, and societal organization. Moreover, the programme emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, integrating archaeology, history, anthropology, and philology to foster a holistic understanding of ancient Egyptian civilization. As part of their studies, students will participate in excavations, internships, and research projects, offering practical experience and opportunities for fieldwork in Egypt and other regions rich in archaeological sites. The programme also encourages language proficiency in hieroglyphs, Middle Egyptian, and other relevant ancient languages, to enable students to analyze and interpret primary sources effectively.

Graduates of this programme are prepared for careers in academia, museums, cultural heritage management, and archaeological research. The University of Geneva’s Egyptology programme prides itself on its distinguished faculty, who are leading experts in the field, and its extensive resources, including specialized libraries, conservation labs, and archaeological sites. Students will benefit from a dynamic learning environment that combines lectures, seminars, workshops, and field trips, fostering both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Upon completing the BA in Egyptology, graduates will have developed critical thinking, research capabilities, and linguistic proficiency, laying a strong foundation for further postgraduate studies or careers dedicated to the preservation and study of Egypt’s ancient past.

The Egyptology program at the University of Geneva offers a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to the study of ancient Egypt, combining linguistic, archaeological, historical, and cultural perspectives. This program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of Egypt's rich civilization, from its earliest origins to its decline and transformation over millennia. Students will engage in advanced courses in ancient Egyptian language, including hieroglyphs, hieratic, and demotic scripts, enabling them to read and interpret primary sources such as inscriptions, papyri, and monuments. The curriculum also covers the history of Egyptian civilization, exploring periods such as the Old Kingdom, Middle Kingdom, New Kingdom, and later epochs, with an emphasis on political structures, social organization, religious beliefs, and daily life.

In addition to language and history, students will gain hands-on experience through archaeological fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and the study of material culture. The program offers opportunities to participate in excavations and research projects, facilitated by expert faculty and partnerships with international institutions. This practical component allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts, fostering skills in excavation techniques, artifact analysis, and conservation.

The program emphasizes critical thinking and analytical skills, encouraging students to interpret archaeological findings within broader cultural and historical frameworks. It also addresses modern issues related to Egyptology, such as heritage preservation, interdisciplinary research, and the integration of new technologies like imaging and digital reconstruction. Graduates will be well-equipped for careers in academia, museums, cultural institutions, international research, or related fields.

Students in the program benefit from a supportive academic environment, access to extensive collections, and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration. The faculty comprising experts in Egyptian linguistics, archaeology, and history ensures a rich learning experience grounded in the latest research. Overall, the Egyptology program at the University of Geneva aims to cultivate knowledgeable, skilled, and critically-minded professionals prepared to advance the understanding of one of the most fascinating ancient civilizations in human history.

The Bachelor’s degree in Egyptology at the University of Geneva typically requires students to complete a comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge and practical skills related to ancient Egypt. The program generally includes foundational courses in Ancient Egyptian language, history, and archaeology, enabling students to develop a solid understanding of Egyptian civilization from its earliest periods through to the Greco-Roman era. Students are expected to acquire proficiency in hieroglyphic writing and translation, which are essential skills for conducting research and deciphering ancient texts.

Apart from language studies, the program emphasizes archaeological methods and fieldwork training, allowing students to participate in excavations and museum studies, thereby gaining hands-on experience. Courses may also cover topics such as Egyptian art, religion, society, and economy, providing a multidisciplinary approach to understanding the cultural and historical context of ancient Egypt. Elective courses often allow students to explore related fields, including classical studies, ancient Near Eastern history, and Egyptomania in modern times.

The program includes seminars, workshops, and research projects that foster critical thinking and scholarly analysis. Students are usually required to complete a final thesis or research paper under the supervision of faculty members, demonstrating their ability to conduct independent research. Additionally, language proficiency exams, such as in hieroglyphics and Middle Egyptian, are integral components of the program requirements.

Participation in academic conferences or study abroad opportunities may be encouraged or required as part of the curriculum to broaden students’ academic horizon and cultural understanding. To graduate, students must fulfill all coursework obligations, successfully defend their thesis, and meet the required credit points as specified by the university’s academic regulations. The program aims to prepare students for careers in academia, museum curation, archaeology, or related fields in Egyptology and ancient history.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Alumni Study Travel Fund

  Scholarships for students who are already attending the University of Reading.

• Amsterdam Merit Scholarships

  The University of Amsterdam aims to attract the world’s brightest students to its international classrooms. Outstanding students from outside the European Economic Area can apply for an Amsterdam Merit Scholarship.

The Egyptology program at the University of Geneva offers a comprehensive study of ancient Egyptian civilization, language, culture, history, and archaeology. This program is designed for students who are passionate about understanding one of the most fascinating and influential civilizations in human history. Throughout the curriculum, students are introduced to the hieroglyphic writing system, enabling them to read and translate ancient texts. They also gain knowledge of Egyptian art, religious beliefs, and societal structures, fostering a deep appreciation of this rich civilization. The program incorporates both theoretical coursework and practical training, allowing students to develop skills in archaeological excavation, analysis of artifacts, and interpretation of ancient sources.

Students have the opportunity to participate in fieldwork and excavations, often in collaboration with international archaeological missions. This hands-on experience is complemented by visits to museums and study trips, which enhance their understanding of Egyptian history and material culture. The university emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from anthropology, history, linguistics, and archaeology to provide a well-rounded education. The program also encourages proficiency in relevant languages such as ancient Egyptian, French, and English, which are essential for research and academic publication.

Graduates from the Egyptology program can pursue careers in academia, museums, cultural heritage management, and archaeological consultancy. The program aims to prepare students not only as specialists in Egyptology but also as skilled researchers capable of contributing to the preservation and dissemination of Egyptian heritage worldwide. The faculty members are experienced researchers and archaeologists who provide mentorship and facilitate students’ engagement with current debates and developments in the field. Overall, the Egyptology program at the University of Geneva offers a rigorous and immersive educational experience for those interested in exploring the ancient world of Egypt through language, archaeology, and cultural history.