Maritime Civilizations

The University of Haifa's International Master's Degree in Maritime Civilizations offers students an exceptional opportunity to explore the history, archeology and fabric of maritime societies, as well as the natural environment in which they developed and currently exist. Students will examine a variety of fields pertaining to maritime civilizations and the marine environment, including coastal and underwater archeology, marine biology and ecology, maritime history, and maritime geology and geomorphology.

The interdisciplinary curriculum offers advanced knowledge and research training to students interested in exploring human interactions with the sea in a dynamic learning environment. Special emphasis will be placed on harbors, ships and seafaring as part of the maritime heritage of the Mediterranean. The program sheds light on the ecological and geomorphological dynamics in the eastern Mediterranean and their influence on the interaction between man and the sea in ancient and modern times. This program is based on ongoing, active research carried out in the field and laboratories at the Department of Maritime Civilizations and the Leon Recanati Institute for Maritime Studies. The language of instruction is English.

Field activities are an integral part of the program. They expose students to hands-on applied science, a variety of research methods, a first-hand acquaintance with the sea and an introduction to the challenges of marine studies. The curriculum includes field trips as well as field-based courses and research. Students will also be required to participate in a summer internship program during which they will work on a field project under the guidance of a faculty mentor.

Upon completion of the program, students will be awarded a master's degree in two general areas in maritime studies: history and archeology, and the natural sciences.

Program Objectives

• • To provide students with an understanding of the sea and maritime civilizations and to prepare them for research in their chosen areas of specialization;
• • To train a new generation of scholars, researchers and educators in the field of marine sciences;
• • To provide students with specialized knowledge of the effects of human interaction with the Mediterranean Sea;
• • To offer an excellent academic program that combines classroom study with hands-on scientific exploration.

The Maritime Civilizations program at the University of Haifa offers a comprehensive exploration of the rich history, culture, and development of civilizations that have thrived along coastal and maritime regions throughout history. This interdisciplinary program combines insights from history, archaeology, anthropology, and environmental studies to provide students with a thorough understanding of the significance of maritime societies in shaping human civilization. Throughout the curriculum, students will examine the evolution of seafaring technologies, trade routes, and cultural exchanges that facilitated the growth of ancient port cities, maritime trading networks, and naval powers. The program emphasizes the archaeological study of shipwrecks, harbors, and coastal settlements, utilizing cutting-edge technologies and methodologies to uncover and interpret artifacts that tell the story of maritime life. Students will also analyze the environmental impact of maritime activities and explore contemporary issues related to maritime security, sustainability, and global trade. Courses are designed to foster critical thinking and research skills, encouraging students to undertake fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and collaborative projects. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in archaeology, museum curation, cultural heritage management, maritime policy, and academia. Additionally, students will have opportunities to participate in internships and field excavations in Israel and abroad, gaining practical experience and building professional networks. With expert faculty members specializing in various facets of maritime history and archaeology, the program ensures a vibrant academic environment that promotes inquiry, innovation, and a deep appreciation of the naval and coastal civilizations that have shaped our world.

The Maritime Civilizations program at the University of Haifa offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of historical, cultural, and technological aspects of maritime societies. Admission requirements typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, with a strong emphasis on proficiency in English, demonstrated through standardized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS, to ensure effective participation in coursework and research. Applicants may also be asked to submit relevant academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement outlining their interest in maritime studies and career aspirations. Prior knowledge in history, archaeology, or related disciplines is advantageous but not mandatory. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, combining courses in history, anthropology, archaeology, political science, and environmental studies to furnish students with a well-rounded perspective of maritime civilizations. Laboratory and fieldwork components are integral parts of the curriculum, requiring students to participate in excavations, maritime explorations, and research projects, which cultivate practical skills and experiential learning. Students are expected to complete a set number of core credits, including introductory courses on global maritime history, regional maritime cultures, non-European maritime civilizations, and the impact of maritime technology on societal development. Elective courses allow for specialization in topics such as nautical archaeology, maritime trade, or maritime environmental challenges. A thesis or capstone project is generally required, demonstrating the student's ability to conduct original research. The program also encourages extracurricular involvement, such as internships with maritime museums or archaeological sites, which may enhance employability in fields like cultural heritage management, maritime archaeology, or international trade law. Overall, the program aims to prepare graduates for careers in academia, research institutions, cultural preservation organizations, and maritime industries, equipping them with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to advance the understanding and preservation of maritime civilizations worldwide.

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

Funding for the Maritime Civilizations program at the University of Haifa is primarily provided through a combination of scholarships, government grants, and financial aid options designed to support domestic and international students. The university offers various scholarship opportunities based on academic excellence, financial need, and specializations within the program. These scholarships are accessible to both undergraduate and graduate students and are aimed at reducing the financial barriers to higher education in maritime studies. In addition to scholarships, students may qualify for government-sponsored grants, which often require application through national educational authorities and are contingent upon specific eligibility criteria such as residency, academic performance, and financial status. The university also participates in reciprocal exchange programs with international institutions, which can include financial support and reduced tuition fees for partner university students, thereby facilitating a broader financial aid network for students interested in maritime civilizations.

Furthermore, the university encourages students to seek external funding sources, including research grants, private foundations, and industry sponsorships relevant to maritime history, cultural studies, and civil engineering in maritime contexts. Some students may also secure internships with maritime companies or cultural institutions, which may provide stipends or financial remuneration that can offset educational expenses. The university's dedicated financial aid office offers personalized guidance to help students navigate available options, prepare applications for external and internal funding, and explore loan programs if necessary. Overall, the financial support ecosystem at the University of Haifa aims to make maritime civilization studies accessible by offering diverse funding pathways tailored to meet students’ individual needs and circumstances, thereby promoting academic excellence and fostering research in this important field of study.

The Bachelor’s degree in Maritime Civilizations at the University of Haifa offers students an in-depth exploration of the historical, cultural, and economic significance of maritime societies throughout history. This program is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the development of maritime civilizations from ancient times to the modern era, emphasizing their influence on global trade, cultural exchanges, technological advancements, and geopolitical dynamics. Students will examine various civilizations that thrived along coastlines and river systems, including the Mediterranean, Red Sea, Indian Ocean, and beyond, analyzing archaeological findings, historical texts, and contemporary research to develop a multidimensional perspective on maritime history.

The curriculum combines courses in history, archaeology, anthropology, and related disciplines to enable students to understand the societal structures, maritime technologies, navigation methods, and economic systems of different civilizations. Emphasis is placed on the interaction between maritime activities and terrestrial societies, exploring themes such as piracy, maritime trade routes, shipbuilding techniques, and the cultural exchanges facilitated by seafaring navigation. The program also investigates the impact of maritime resources on the development of coastal cities and the role of maritime civilizations in shaping global history.

Students enrolled in this program have opportunities for fieldwork, including archaeological digs and site visits, which support experiential learning and practical skills development. Additionally, the program fosters interdisciplinary research capabilities and critical thinking, preparing graduates for careers in archaeology, museum education, heritage management, maritime policy, and academic research. The University of Haifa maintains strong ties with research institutions, maritime organizations, and cultural heritage agencies, providing students with valuable internships and networking opportunities.

Graduates of the Maritime Civilizations program are equipped with a broad knowledge base and specialized skills that enable them to analyze and interpret historical maritime data, contribute to the preservation of maritime heritage, and engage in scholarly or professional pursuits related to maritime history and archaeology. Overall, this program aims to cultivate a new generation of researchers, educators, and professionals passionate about understanding humanity’s enduring relationship with the sea.