Faculty of Philosophy Master Classics

• Interdisciplinary joint degree programme with selectable focal areas: Ancient History, Byzantine Archaeology and Art History, Greek Studies, Classical Archaeology, Latin Studies, Papyrology, and Basic Sciences
• Courses from adjacent areas, such as Ancient Philosophy, Digital Humanities, or Cultural Heritage, may be added
• Combination of discipline specialisation and interdisciplinary perspective
• Intensive individual supervision from the participating subjects
• Teaching formats developed specifically for the Master’s programme, including an interdisciplinary orientation module and a field trip
• Integrated compulsory work placement as part of the “Professional practice” module
• Bilingualism: Courses and examinations can be held in German or English
• Degree programme qualifies for a doctorate in the chosen focal area

The interdisciplinary Master’s degree programme offers a research-oriented, specialising education in the disciplines of studies of the ancient world. The focus is on the joint analysis and interpretation of the material and textual cultures of Greco-Roman antiquity as well as from the various perspectives of the focal areas. The course of studies is supplemented by practical courses, field trips and the opportunity to spend time abroad. The M.A. Classics prepares students both for a scientific career (including a doctorate) and for a wide range of professional fields.

The Master’s degree programme is designed to be research-oriented and enables students to develop and process their own scientific questions at a high level. The close connection to six renowned disciplines – Ancient History, Classical Archaeology, Greek Studies, Latin Studies, Byzantine Archaeology and Art History as well as Papyrology and Basic Sciences – guarantees excellent specialist supervision and an intensive examination of current research debates.

The focus is on the independent analysis of ancient sources in their material and textual diversity. Research-related work is characterised by methodological diversity, interdisciplinary skills, and critical reflection on scientific outlines. Students acquire detailed knowledge of theoretical models, digital methods (e.g., digital classics) and relevant basic sciences, which enable them to perform independent projects.

Orientation and advanced modules, colloquia, and the Master’s thesis promote the development of an individual research profile. Students already have the opportunity to participate in ongoing research projects, conferences, or exhibitions during their courses of studies. The goal is enabling students to perform independent scientific work – with a view to both a doctorate and a research-related career.
 
 

The subject-specific and generic qualification objectives of the Master’s degree programme in Classics enable graduates to work independently in many professional fields and to gain further qualifications as part of a doctorate.

Possible career prospects include the following areas (partly depending on the chosen focal area):

• Universities and research institutes
• Excavation archaeology (excavation companies, archaeological heritage offices)
• Museums and cultural institutions
• Practical monument preservation
• Project management
• Tourism
• Journalism and specialised journalism
• Adult education and continuing education
• Publishing and libraries
• Marketing and agencies
• Media and communication
• Cultural institutions and cultural sponsorship
• Consultancy in the areas of politics and culture
• Political institutions and non-governmental organisations
• Administration and public service

A doctorate is a prerequisite for further qualification for some of the professions named. The special admission requirements for any doctoral degree programmes and the entry requirements for possible professions should therefore be considered when designing the Master’s degree programme.