Mediterranean Archaeology

The Master's degree in Mediterranean Archaeology at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers an in-depth exploration of the rich and diverse archaeological heritage of the Mediterranean region. This interdisciplinary program is designed to provide students with comprehensive knowledge of the history, culture, and material remains of ancient Mediterranean civilizations, including the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, and the societies of the Near East. Students will engage with a wide range of archaeological methods, including excavation techniques, artifact analysis, and contextual interpretation, applying modern scientific approaches to better understand the social, political, and economic aspects of ancient life.

The program emphasizes critical thinking and analytical skills, enabling students to formulate research questions, conduct independent research, and communicate their findings effectively. Through a combination of theoretical coursework, practical training, and fieldwork opportunities, students will develop a nuanced understanding of the archaeological record and its significance within broader historical narratives. The curriculum covers key themes such as archaeological theory, material culture studies, ancient scripts and inscriptions, and the use of technological innovations like GIS and remote sensing in archaeological research.

Students will have opportunities to collaborate on research projects and participate in excavations, which provide invaluable hands-on experience. The program also encourages an international perspective, attracting students from diverse backgrounds who share a passion for Mediterranean history and archaeology. Graduates will be well-equipped for careers in academic research, cultural heritage management, museum curation, and archaeological consultancy. With its strong academic staff, extensive network of archaeological sites, and focus on both theoretical and practical knowledge, the Master's in Mediterranean Archaeology at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam prepares students to become experts capable of making meaningful contributions to the field of archaeology and the preservation of our shared cultural heritage.

The Master's program in Mediterranean Archaeology at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers students an in-depth and comprehensive understanding of the historical and cultural developments of the Mediterranean region from the prehistoric era to Late Antiquity. This programme is designed for students passionate about archaeology, history, and ancient civilizations, providing a solid foundation in archaeological methods, research techniques, and theoretical frameworks relevant to Mediterranean cultures.

Throughout the course, students engage in both theoretical studies and practical applications, including excavation techniques, artifact analysis, and spatial mapping. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and analytical skills, encouraging students to interpret archaeological data within broader social, political, and environmental contexts. The programme covers a wide array of topics such as ancient Greek and Roman civilizations, Egyptian archaeology, the Bronze Age, and the emergence of early urban societies. Students will also explore themes related to the preservation of archaeological heritage, cultural heritage management, and ethical issues in archaeology.

The programme benefits from the university’s strong connections with international archaeological projects and research institutions, offering students valuable fieldwork opportunities and internships. These practical experiences are complemented by seminars, workshops, and guest lectures from leading experts in the field. Students actively participate in research projects, contributing to ongoing scholarship on Mediterranean archaeology.

Graduates of the Master's programme are well-prepared for careers in academia, cultural heritage organizations, archaeological consultancy, or further academic research, including PhD studies. The programme fosters a collaborative learning environment, encouraging students to develop their own research questions and pursue specialized interests within the broad domain of Mediterranean archaeology. With a blend of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and international research exposure, students graduate equipped to contribute meaningfully to archaeological research and heritage preservation efforts worldwide.

Admission requirements

For information about application and admission please go to: http://www.vu.nl/en/programmes/international-masters/programmes/l-m/mediterranean-archaeology/admission-requirements-and-application/index.asp

Other requirements

1. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) For information about application and admission please go to: http://www.vu.nl/en/programmes/international-masters/programmes/l-m/mediterranean-archaeology/admission-requirements-and-application/index.asp
2. schriftelijk verzoek For information about application and admission please go to: http://www.vu.nl/en/programmes/international-masters/programmes/l-m/mediterranean-archaeology/admission-requirements-and-application/index.asp

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 financing of the Master's programme in Mediterranean Archaeology at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam primarily relies on several funding sources. Students can utilize Dutch government funding options such as the Dutch student loans system (Studiefinanciering) if they meet specific criteria, including nationality and residency status. European Union and Dutch students are often eligible for scholarships and grants designed to support international and domestic students pursuing master's degrees. The university itself offers various financial aid opportunities, such as the VU Fellowship Programme, which provides scholarships based on academic excellence and financial need. Additionally, students may seek external funding through national and international scholarship programs, private foundations, or sponsorships catering to archaeology and heritage studies.

Tuition fees constitute a significant part of the financial planning for students enrolling in this programme. For EU/EEA students, the tuition fee is generally lower compared to non-EU/EEA students, reflecting Dutch policies on differential pricing. The current tuition fee for EU students is approximately €2,200 per year, whereas non-EU students pay around €11,000 per year, subject to annual updates by the university. Many students offset these costs through part-time work, internships, or assistant roles within the university or associated archaeological institutions.

Students are encouraged to explore external funding options, including Erasmus+ programs and heritage or archaeological foundations that support archaeological studies. The university's financial aid advisors offer guidance on available funding opportunities, application procedures, and deadlines to assist students in their financial planning. Moreover, some students may qualify for supplementary grants or subsidies based on their personal and financial circumstances.

In summary, financing the Mediterranean Archaeology master's programme involves a combination of governmental support, university scholarships, external grants, and personal funding strategies. Prospective students should review the specific eligibility criteria for each funding source, prepare necessary documentation, and apply well in advance to maximize their chances of securing financial aid. Planning ahead is essential to ensure adequate funding for tuition, living expenses, and academic resources throughout the duration of the programme.

The Master's program in Mediterranean Archaeology at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers students an in-depth understanding of the ancient civilizations that thrived around the Mediterranean basin. The curriculum is designed to provide comprehensive knowledge and practical skills essential for archaeological research, focusing on regions such as Southern Europe, North Africa, the Levant, and Anatolia. Students learn about archaeological theories, excavation techniques, and various analytical methods used to interpret material remains unearthed from archaeological sites. The program emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights from history, anthropology, art history, and natural sciences to understand the social, cultural, and economic aspects of ancient Mediterranean societies.

Throughout the program, students have the opportunity to engage in practical training through fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and digital archaeology. The university collaborates with archaeological institutions and offers field excursions that enable students to gain firsthand experience. Specializations within the master's program allow students to focus on specific periods such as the Neolithic, Bronze Age, Iron Age, Classical Antiquity, or later historical periods, tailoring their studies to align with personal academic interests or career goals.

Furthermore, the program promotes research skills, critical thinking, and the ability to communicate complex archaeological findings effectively. Graduates are well-equipped for careers in archaeological research, cultural heritage management, museum work, and further academic pursuits such as PhD studies. The multicultural environment at VU Amsterdam, combined with its strong emphasis on theoretical and practical components, ensures students develop a broad understanding of Mediterranean archaeology and acquire relevant skills for the global job market in archaeology and heritage sectors.

The program also benefits from the university’s excellent facilities, including access to extensive libraries, laboratories, and digital resources. Event opportunities like seminars, conferences, and guest lectures with internationally renowned archaeologists enrich the learning experience. Overall, the Master's in Mediterranean Archaeology at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is an ideal program for students passionate about exploring the ancient past of the Mediterranean and contributing to the preservation and interpretation of its archaeological heritage.