Theory meets practice
The Master's degree programme in Archaeology has a theoretical orientation but at the same time offers practice-oriented modules in which you will interpret field data and study archaeological materials. Students are seen as partners in research; in two Research Labs you will actually participate in the ongoing research of the staff. Separate modules are devoted to preparation for the job market in field archaeology and heritage management.
Archaeology in Amsterdam
This Master’s degree programme is offered jointly by two universities. The University of Amsterdam and VU Amsterdam have combined their expertise in the fields of Archaeology, Ancient History and Classics in the Amsterdam Centre for Ancient Studies and Archaeology (ACASA). This merging of specialisations creates a stimulating environment for collaboration and study and extends the options when it comes to the supervision of your Master’s thesis.
This video explains what the Master’s in Archaeology are about. Students of these programmes also share their experiences with you.
Why study Archaeology in Amsterdam?
- World-class education
This Master’s programme offers the opportunity to gain a world-class education in the archaeology of Europe and the adjacent Mediterranean area at a leading European university. - Theory and practice
You will gain hands-on experience of working with archaeological material from sites across the Mediterranean and Europe. - Follow your personal interests
You will be able to follow and develop your personal interests, among others by tapping into the wide array of expertise of eminent scholars at the UvA and the VU. - Small-scale education
Teaching takes place in small group classes with direct personal contact with tutors. - Ideal study environment
As a student, you will profit from the programme’s collaboration with institutions such as the municipal archaeological service and the Allard Pierson Museum. Amsterdam is an international metropolis with a small-city feel. It is a welcoming place to live and study and English is widely spoken.
Archaeology and Amsterdam? A perfect combination! You are surrounded by archaeology here! During the construction of the new metro line, for instance, many finds were made. As a student, you regularly visit the Allard Pierson Museum, where you study ancient materials while being surrounded by plaster copies of classical statues. During practical workshops, you study ceramics, glass finds, or bone combs in small classes tutored by very approachable staff.Natalie Park
After graduation
Students graduating with a Master’s degree in Archaeology can be employed in positions requiring in-depth knowledge of archaeology. They also find their way into other jobs requiring a range of academic skills. Graduates can also choose to pursue a PhD programme at the UvA or the VU Amsterdam, or at another university in the Netherlands or abroad.
Degree certificate
Archaeology is an accredited degree programme. After successful completion of this programme, you will receive a legally accredited Master’s degree in Archaeology and the title Master of Arts (MA).
Once you enrol at the UvA, you will also automatically be enrolled as a guest student at VU Amsterdam. If you enrol at VU Amsterdam, the exact opposite applies. Please note that you will receive one diploma, from the university at which you originally enrolled.