Egyptology (MA)
The master’s programme in Egyptology, a specialisation of the Classics and Ancient Civilizations programme, at Leiden University provides you with a multidisciplinary study of the languages, literatures and cultures of Ancient Egypt.
Why study Egyptology at Leiden University?
Join an acclaimed programme that has its roots in the 19th century when Leiden’s National Museum of Antiquities acquired its famous collection of Egyptian antiquities. The one-year Egyptology master’s programme covers a wide range of focused, in-depth topics, including most of the linguistic and cultural history of Pharaonic, Graeco-Roman and Coptic Egypt.
Staff expertise
Your teachers are experts in languages, literatures and cultures of Ancient Egypt and active researchers engaged in innovative projects that constantly build bridges to the courses offered in your programme. Our staff members cooperate with fellow researchers from universities and research institutes from various countries on project topics covering: Egyptian art history, Egyptian archaeology, Egyptian religion, Coptic Egypt, Social and economic history of Ancient Egypt and the origins of the alphabet. These wide-ranging research activities form an integral part of the educational programme.
Visit excavations in Egypt
Consolidate what you learn in class by experiencing it first-hand during an intensive course on archaeology as practiced in Egypt today. You will visit excavations and research projects in Egypt and learn about the department’s own field and research projects, including excavations at Saqqara and the Dakhla Oasis.
Learn more about the study programme
Christel Birkmann-Little
Research MA Egyptology Student
I found the Egyptology program in Leiden to be globally unique, offering specialised courses unavailable in other locations (especially regarding Egyptian language), and having strong collaborations with the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden and the Nederlands Institut voor de Nabije Oosten (NINO). I found the program to be flexible, allowing me to tailor my studies to my areas of interests whilst also exposing me to areas I might not have previously considered.
What has been the highlight of your experience so far?
The course Egyptology in the field, a 2 month stay in Egypt, is definitely the highlight. This time allowed me to experience first-hand the work of Egyptologists, visiting excavations, museums and institutes. It was also powerful in reinforcing the point that Egypt has an ancient past and a thriving modern society, both of which should be considered together.
Are there any tips /is there any advice you would give prospective students about studying this programme?
The Egyptology department is a welcoming community and you should not be afraid to ask fellow students or teachers for help or advice at any point. Embrace working together and you will flourish. Also, don't be afraid to try new things. Even if you are interested in a specific topic, taking courses outside of this area can broaden your horizon and perhaps give you new ideas.
What are your career prospects?
As a graduate of an MA in Classics and Ancient Civilizations at Leiden University you are qualified to work as a junior academic researcher in an academic environment or carry out further research work on a PhD programme. It is also possible to find employment within the fields of publishing or teaching, at policy-making departments of governmental bodies, within the education sector, or within cultural tourism.
Find out more about the career prospects
Is Egyptology the programme for you?
Do you want to find out if you are eligible for this Master's programme?
Check the admission requirements
Research MA Egyptology
It is also possible to study Egyptology as a two-year Research Master’s programme.