Universiteit Leiden

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World Archaeology (BA)

World Archaeology in Leiden encompasses the study of societies, cultures, and human behaviour from the past, aiming to reconstruct and revive them. With our mix of education and research you lay a strong foundation for an international career in archaeology or heritage management.

Mariëlle Portier

Bachelor's student

Mariëlle Portier

'I chose archaeology because of my interest in the past and ancient cultures and because the study is a combination of theory and practice. I don't just have to peer into books, but I also work directly with archaeological artifacts. Also super fun is the prospect that you are going to do field work.'

Elsbeth Tjon Sie Fat

Events and Venue Hire

Elsbeth Tjon Sie Fat

I am responsible for all events and the rental of rooms at the National Museum of Antiquities (RMO). The activities we organise at the RMO vary from small meetings to large productions: I can simultaneously be busy preparing a course with 25 people as well as the Museum Night with 2,500 visitors.

As a student in Archaeology I studied objects from the RMO. This introduced me to the museum and, after various positions, brought me to my current department. My knowledge of the collection helps me find suitable topics for our public events. Although I no longer work with archaeological objects on a daily basis, I am always surrounded by them at the RMO.

Do the 360 Tour of the Faculty of Archaeology

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Why study Archaeology?

Make a meaningful contribution to our knowledge of humankind by studying the activities and behaviour of people from the past. With learnings from history, you will gain new insights into our present-day world. You will look at contemporary issues like migration, globalisation, and climate change through an archaeological lense. With this unique angle, you may contribute to the public debate.

World Archaeology is a specialisation of the Bachelor's programme in Archaeology. You will choose your specialisation in the first year of your Bachelor's studies in Archaeology.

Archaeology at Leiden University

Furthermore, the programme offers:

  • a strong, global emphasis, with wide networks in international research;
  • excellent facilities in the heart of Leiden’s academic community;
  • English language teaching by enthusiastic lecturers;
  • a lively and sociable study association.

Check out even more reasons to study Archaeology at Leiden University.

Timelapse of the Udhruh archaeological excavation, Jordan

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Is this the programme for you?

Archaeology at Leiden University is the programme for you if:

  • you literally and figuratively want to dig into the past;
  • you have an investigative nature;
  • you are interested in people and their (material) culture;
  • you are practical, but not daunted by academic theory;
  • you have a good grasp of English;
  • you are social and are able to work well together with others.

Apply now for the programme in BA Archaeology!

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