Classical Archaeology

Degree
Master of Arts
Semester fee
78 Euro
Start of the program
Winter semester
Standard length of the program
4 Semester
Place of study
Eichstätt
Part-time studies possible
No

Classical Archaeology belongs to the studies of antiquity; it deals with the fine arts and material culture of the Greeks and Romans and their neighbors.

Everything representational like architecture, sculptures and vessels, but also two-dimensional images on mosaics, in murals or on vessels and also inscriptions of all kinds belong to the field of archaeology. This, of course, also includes graves and grave findings. 

The topographical research area covers the Mediterranean region, with Celtic, Gallic and Germanic neighbors in the north to Sudan in the south, and from west to east from Portugal and England to the coasts of the Black Sea, Syria and Jordan.

The time frame is also broad: from the Bronze-Age advanced civilizations in the Aegean Sea, over the so-called dark centuries, the Greek and Roman epochs, to late antiquity.

The program in detail

In the framework of the subject Art, Classical Archaeology can be studied in the Interdisciplinary Master’s degree program as a major or minor subject in the Aisthesis. cultural and media studies variant or in the flexible variant in the amount of up to 30 ECTS credits, in combination with at least one other subject and/or the Studium Individuale.

Contents

This is what you can expect in the subject of Classical Archaeology in the Master’s program:

  • Subject-specific, interdisciplinary training to expand your own scientific skills
  • Deepened and extended professional knowledge
  • Acquisition of visual and media skills
  • Application of methods and analysis exercises
  • Basic knowledge of current cultural studies theories (spatial analysis, ritual research, acculturation, cultural contact)
  • Research-oriented studies and guidance for independent scientific work
  • Adapted course formats
  • Practical exercises and internships, also excavations
  • Interdisciplinary events with the neighboring subjects
  • Internal and interdisciplinary colloquia
  • Scientific lecture series
  • Field trips to the Mediterranean and the surrounding area

The Professorship of Classical Archaeology at the KU Eichstätt-Ingolstadt offers ideal conditions as a study location for classical and art studies. Archaeology can be combined with Ancient History, Classical Philology, Ancient Church History and Art History. In addition, the interdisciplinary approach of the degree program is promoted through academic exchange, also on an international level, from the very beginning of the program.

The range of courses draws on the expertise of the Chair of Classical Archaeology and is enriched by our adjunct professor (Prof. Dr. Andreas Hillert), temporary visiting professors and subject-specific teaching assignments.

The research interests of the professors and project participants are broadly diversified. Excavation projects are currently being carried out in Italy and Germany. In addition, topics such as the archaeology of Greek necropolises, Greek colonization, urban development and the art and culture of early Christians form special research foci at the Institute.

Structure

The consecutive Master's degree program in "Art" lasts four semesters and builds on a previous Bachelor's degree program, but is more research-oriented and deepens subject-specific knowledge. Classical Archaeology can be studied as a sub-discipline of the Interdisciplinary Master's program in the flexible variant "Art" as a major or minor subject.

The Master's degree program is divided into three areas:

  • 1. The core subject Archaeology as a specialization (30 LP)
  • 2. The complementary field (30 LP)
  • 3. The Master’s thesis (30 ECTS)

Program Structure for this joint degree option based on the example of 40 ECTS credits

Semester 1

Required area: Methods of Classical Archaeology: 5 ECTS credits, module examination: oral or written examination

and

Required area: Classical Archaeology – Exemplary Studies (advanced): 5 ECTS credits; module examination: Presentation (not graded) and written assignment.

Semester 2

Required elective area: Exemplary studies (advanced) – Term Paper Classical Archaeology: 5 ECTS credits; module examination: Term paper

and/or

Required elective area: Advanced module – Scientific Internship Classical Archaeology: 15 ECTS credits; module examination: Internship report

Semester 3

Required elective area: Advanced Exemplary Studies – Master's level seminar for the study of original artworks in the original context or in the context of an art collection: 5 ECTS credits, module examination: scientific guided tour, can be effected as a field trip

and

Required elective area: Advanced module – Large Term Paper Classical Archaeology: 10 ECTS credits, module examination: large term paper

or

Advanced module – Semester at an external partner university: 15 ECTS credits, Learning Agreement

Semester 4

Required elective area: Classical Archaeology – Exemplary Studies (advanced): 5 ECTS credits; module examination: Presentation (not graded) and written assignment, module can be chosen multiple times

Master’s module: Presentation on the Master’s thesis topic in the advanced graduate seminar and Master's thesis, 30 ECTS credits

Facilities

The Archaeology department at the KU has a well-founded stock of specialized archaeological literature, which is kept in the Main Library. It is arranged in a user-friendly manner together with the holdings of the other antiquities and art disciplines. High-quality image material for presentations in the courses is available through the digital image databases PROMETHEUS and ArKuBiD.

The image center for art history and the Center for Literature-Related Media Analysis offer an extensive range of films and videos.

The exhibition landscape of the region with the museums in Munich (Glyptothek, antique collection, coin collection), in Augsburg (Lapidarium), in Ingolstadt (city museum), in Erlangen and Würzburg (university collection of antiquities and casts) and in Nuremberg (Germanisches Nationalmuseum) is particularly attractive. The museums and collections offer possibilities for an intensive examination of ancient works and museum practice in short field trips.

The program in awards and rankings

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© studycheck.de

Rankings and assessments

StudyCheck2024

KU students and alumni have voted for their University to be Germany's most popular university in the 2024 ranking of the online portal StudyCheck. This is the third time in a row, as KU was also voted the most popular university in 2021 and 2022. The ranking was based on over 78,000 evaluations for more than 500 higher education institutions and universities. 97 percent of students questioned for the ranking would recommend studying at the KU to others. 

"There is no better praise for a university than almost 100 percent of students and alumni agreeing: I can only recommend studying at the KU! That is why we are very pleased with the ranking’s outcome, because it expresses the high level of satisfaction of our students," says KU President Prof. Dr. Gabriele Gien.

More ranking results

Studying abroad

A stay abroad can be integrated into the curriculum: In the second or third semester, you can choose between a well-supervised study abroad period within the framework of existing international networks or an internship, for example in a museum, an archaeological institute or an excavation company.

The KU maintains a network of partnerships with about 300 universities worldwide. In addition, the Classical Archaeology department is very well connected both nationally and internationally. This gives students good opportunities to spend a semester abroad, to do an internship at an institution related to archaeology or to participate in a summer school. The KU International Office supports students in the planning phase and provides information on different financing possibilities for stays abroad.

Practical connection

By integrating an internship module, practical work at museums, exhibitions, archives or excavations can be integrated into the curriculum. When looking for an internship position, whether local, regional or international, you will receive support from the KU Career Service and the International Internship Service

Career possibilities and professional fields

Career prospects

Archaeology no longer belongs to the exotic subjects: As a trained archaeologist, a wide range of fields of application is available to you: Universities, archaeological institutes or other research institutions, as well as collections and museums and the offices for the preservation of historical monuments. Journalism and adult education are also part of the range of professional opportunities. You can also work in cultural management and in the tourism industry. Archaeologists also often work as consultants for film and television. Many foreign institutions offer work and research opportunities, but you also find professional opportunities in the regional environment in museums, archives, excavation companies and in public relations. You can also choose to pursue an academic path: Graduates of a Master’s degree can pursue subsequent doctoral studies. With a focus on research and teaching at universities, you could then work as a research associate or professor.

Alumni testimonials

Foto Alumni

"In Eichstätt you are seen and perceived as an individual which is a benefit compared to big universities with huge auditoriums. One is seen, challenged – and encouraged. I also liked the personal aspect of the Archaeology program very much: There were opportunities for everyone to get involved and help shape the…

"In Eichstätt you are seen and perceived as an individual which is a benefit compared to big universities with huge auditoriums. One is seen, challenged – and encouraged. I also liked the personal aspect of the Archaeology program very much: There were opportunities for everyone to get involved and help shape the teaching and learning practice.

Especially memorable for me (besides the informative field trips that were all unforgettable experiences): the exercises 'archaeological reading'. Whether it be Cicero or Pliny: From their texts, you can learn all kinds of specific things about what the ancient world looked like".

- Melanie Kattanek(Magistra Artium Classical Archaeology, Latin, Ancient History, Historical Culture)
Alumni_Matthias_Pausch

"I wanted to start studying at a small university and later switch to another. I quickly liked it so much that I only went to other universities like Göttingen for a while and always enjoyed coming back. Thanks to the Erasmus grant, I was able to study in Catania in Sicily. The short distances and the close and good…

"I wanted to start studying at a small university and later switch to another. I quickly liked it so much that I only went to other universities like Göttingen for a while and always enjoyed coming back. Thanks to the Erasmus grant, I was able to study in Catania in Sicily. The short distances and the close and good relationship to the lecturers, the work as a student assistant at the professorship and the mediation of excavation activities enabled me to study in a versatile and also relatively practice-oriented way and to enter into the professional life of an archaeologist seamlessly. The good contact to the colleagues in Eichstätt still exists".

- Matthias Pausch(Magister Artium and doctorate in Classical Archaeology, Ancient History and Bavarian Regional History at the KU, founder and director of the LIMESEUM and the Roman Park in Ruffenhofen)

The KU

Sommerresidenz Luftbild

Campus

Short distances on campus at the KU save time and avoid stress. The KU is a campus University with modern facilities. The buildings on campus are located close to the Eichstätt old town. Although the University and its campus has grown, it is still characterized by short distances: In Eichstätt, everything can be reached within ten minutes’ walking distance. On campus, green spaces such as the Hofgarten are the perfect places to relax. The garden of the Kapuzinerkloster is also used by different student initiatives for their projects. The canteen is located at the heart of the Eichstätt campus and has a sun deck and cafeteria that leave nothing to be desired.

Studierende vor der Zentralbibliothek

What sets the KU apart

Studying at the KU is more than just acquiring specialist knowledge. We broaden our horizons together and take on responsibility in and beyond the individual degree programs. The KU has a particular focus on topics such as personal development, sustainability, social skills and social commitment.

It offers its students the possibility to study and work in a welcoming atmosphere and benefit from outstanding support and comprehensive service offers, a well-stocked library, a broad range of sports and leisure activities and a large global network of approx. 300 partner universities. Our team at the International Office helps you to plan your semester abroad and the KU Career Service provides comprehensive advice and support for embarking on your professional career.

Do I have to be Catholic in order to study at the KU? Do I have to deal with Catholic contents during my studies?

No, the KU is open to students of all faiths and beliefs.

At the KU, just as at all state universities, there is freedom of research and teaching. This means that our degree programs focus on the subjects for which you have enrolled – free from external influences.

As a student at our University, you will notice what our understanding of being a Catholic University means for us in one thing in particular: The University’s focus is on the individual person. The talents and potential of all those who teach, study, work and carry out research at the KU form our most important foundation – regardless of their religion or beliefs, nationality, ethical, cultural or social background, disabilities, gender, sexual orientation or age.

This is why we promote your best possible academic education through personal support and an ideal staff-to-student ratio. At the same time, the KU is more than just a place for earning your degree: We attach particular importance to imparting social skills and advancing our students’ sense and value orientation in addition to providing them with a high level of academic and methodical qualification.

Our aspiration for our University is to build bridges between science and society and to make knowledge available for society as well as to integrate impulses from outside the University into our research and teaching practice. We aim to make a valuable contribution to social coexistence, to the free democratic basic order and to preserving creation. 

Isn’t Eichstätt quite small for a university town?

With a population of around 15,000, it is probably the smallest university town in Europe. For our students, this means living and learning in a friendly and informal atmosphere. Whether it is on the way to a lecture in the morning, at the canteen for lunch or in the pub in the evening, you will often come across people you know. It is easy to meet people in Eichstätt! By the way, the KU’s “living room” is the Theke, a bar run by students for students. Here, people meet for parties, jam sessions, karaoke evenings or a cozy round of table football.

A small town also means short distances: The library, the swimming pool, the cinema or the supermarket – everything can be reached in a few minutes on foot or by bike. The town is located right in the heart of the Altmühltal natural park – a real paradise for climbers, canoeists, hikers and cyclists just around the corner.

Should you still reach a point when you feel too cooped in, you can breathe big city air easily near Eichstätt. Ingolstadt with its 135,000 inhabitants is only a few kilometers away and offers a variety of shopping and nightlife options.

Can I also study at the KU if I have completed the Fachabitur?

Yes, you can study certain degree programs at the KU with a subject-specific university entrance qualification (Fachabitur). These are: Social Work (BA) and Religious Education (BA).

 

The location

Ortsschild Eichstätt
University town of Eichstätt
Willibaldsburg
Willibaldsburg
Bootsfahrer auf der Altmühl
Canoeing on the Altmühl river
[Translate to Englisch:] Biergarten
Relaxing and celebrating in beer gardens

Eichstätt and the surrounding Altmühltal natural park are not only a popular destination for culture enthusiasts and nature lovers, but also for cyclists, climbers, canoeists and fossil collectors. Located between Munich and Nuremberg, the city impresses with its Baroque setting and southern flair combined with modern and prizewinning architecture as well as a broad variety of cultural offerings and leisure activities. 

The Baroque park at the heart of the campus and the nearby banks of the Altmühltal river are the KU’s “green living room”. Another big advantage: all University facilities are just a short walk away from each other.

More on the study location Eichstätt

Advisory Service

Some offers and study conditions are different for international students – our International Office is happy to provide help and support. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our team. We are happy to accompany you on your way to the KU and hope that we can welcome you in person soon!

International Office
Building Domplatz 8  |  Room: DP8-203 | Campus Eichstätt

Subject Advisor

Application

Requirements
Bachelor
see examination regulations interdisciplinary MA
Language requirements
DSH 2
Application period winter
May 01 - Jul 15
Admission restriction
No
Selection procedure
No
Requirements
Bachelor
see examination regulations interdisciplinary MA
Language requirements
DSH 2
Application period winter
May 01 - Jul 15
Admission restriction
No
Selection procedure
No

Application

The application process for international applicants is now completely digital. You can register online in our application portal and carry out and submit your application. After you have carried out the application and uploaded your documents, you do not need to send your documents to us again by post. You do have to submit certified true copies only if you are admitted at the time of enrollment.

Depending on the course of study, you may be asked for information on internships, professional experience, etc. Please upload the relevant documents in the upload area for all the information you provide, even if these are not mandatory fields!

Before you start the application process, please read the additional information on this page, in particular the information on the respective (German) language requirements and university entrance qualifications.

Application - more Information