Archaeological Sciences

The aim of Archaeological Sciences is to reconstruct and interpret past cultures and ways of life. At the core of this field are material remains and archaeological findings; written sources, when available, are also incorporated. The range of disciplines united in Frankfurt spans from prehistory to the Middle Ages, and from Europe to Asia and Africa.

The bachelor's program "Archaeological Sciences" guides students in developing skills and knowledge to uncover the material remains of past human existence, analyze them through specific research questions, and place them within their historical, cultural, and societal contexts. To this end, the program combines solid knowledge of the relevant cultural and environmental historical specifics with the methodological and theoretical fundamentals of archaeological research practices.

The Institute for Archaeological Sciences offers an exceptionally broad range of subjects. Divided into three departments, it includes the archaeology and history of culture of the Ancient Near East, Classical Archaeology, and Ancient Near Eastern philology (Department I); the archaeology and history of the Roman provinces, as well as the archaeology of coins, money, and economy in classical antiquity (both Department II); and the prehistory and early history of Eurasia and Africa (Department III), with a total of six professorships and a large staff. Additional focal areas include ancient numismatics, archaeometry, and archaeobotany. The "Ceramics Research Center," which explores this material in all its aspects, works across disciplines and time periods.

The Frankfurt location is also distinguished by one of the most beautiful university campuses in Germany, the Westend Campus, which offers state-of-the-art study conditions and excellent infrastructure. Several archaeological museums in the city and region, a variety of libraries with extensive collections, and internationally renowned non-university research institutions further enhance the experience.

Numerous excavations, participation in the PONS and Erasmus exchange programs, significant collections, as well as extensive media and photo libraries round out the rich offerings available to our students.

The BA major program "Archaeological Sciences" is designed to span eight semesters. It consists of a general required section (70 CP) and a specialization section (110 CP), which must be chosen at the time of admission to the BA examination (typically at the end of the first semester). All archaeological disciplines represented in Frankfurt, as well as Ancient Near Eastern Philology, can be selected as a specialization:

• Near Eastern Archaeology 
• Ancient Near Eastern Philology  
• Klassische Archäologie
• Archaeology and History of the Roman Provinces
• Archaeology of Coins, Money, and Economy in Classical Antiquity
• Prehistoric and Early Archaeology (including African Archaeology)  

Hands-on training and excursions  
In the practical module, students gain hands-on knowledge and skills in key areas and methods of archaeology. They acquire experience essential for a successful professional career and establish career-relevant connections.  

Through excursions, students engage with archaeological institutions (e.g., museums, collections, research institutes), historical sites, and excavation locations. In the excursion module, they deepen their understanding of materials and sources by examining original finds and features firsthand. They also explore concepts and challenges in monument conservation and the presentation of excavation sites and archaeological objects.  

Both modules can be completed from the second to the eighth semester.