Course content and focus areas
Students with a bachelor's degree in Classical Archaeology or a related field, who have typically completed a six-semester education, can achieve a master's degree through a four-semester program at Goethe University Frankfurt. During the first two semesters, students complete 60 CP in a flexible course of study tailored to their individual interests (Option A). The final two semesters consist of the core master's program with specific master's modules (see below), which is directly accessible to Frankfurt BA graduates who have completed an eight-semester bachelor's program (Option B).
The program includes eleven modules for external students and five modules for internal Frankfurt applicants. These modules, with their practical professional elements, are designed to prepare students for careers as professional scholars. The courses and performance requirements focus on expanding subject-specific knowledge and methodological skills, as well as practicing sound academic principles. The emphasis is consistently placed on developing the ability to work independently and responsibly. Students are encouraged and guided to document expert observations and reflections on archaeological objects and present them to a smaller audience. This process is intended to make the transition from material analysis to the complex ancient world of life and thought a natural yet critically reflective practice. Additionally, students gain experience transitioning from the role of learner to teacher by co-teaching a seminar alongside a professor. Furthermore, students enhance their ability to analyze written sources on ancient cultures, including acquiring the Graecum or an equivalent language certification in ancient Greek.
Graduates of the program have the opportunity to pursue a doctorate in Classical Archaeology.