Ancient History (Master)
Bourg-en-Bresse Campus, France
Master in Ancient History (Mondes Anciens)
Jean Moulin Lyon 3 University
Ancient History
Program Overview: Master in Ancient History
The Master in Ancient History at Jean Moulin Lyon 3 University is a research-focused program co-accredited with Université Lumière Lyon 2, Université Savoie Mont-Blanc, and the prestigious École Normale Supérieure (ENS) de Lyon. It forms part of the broader Master Mondes Anciens (Ancient Worlds) and trains specialists in the history of ancient civilizations, spanning from the Near East to the Iberian Peninsula and covering a chronological range from the 3rd millennium BC to the early Middle Ages.
The program provides a multidisciplinary foundation in ancient history, complemented by training in ancient languages, modern foreign languages, and digital humanities applied to ancient sources. Students follow a common core of lectures and seminars covering the major periods, civilizations, and chrono-cultural areas of the ancient world, while pursuing specialization through research seminars and the writing of a research dissertation in both M1 and M2.
Affiliated with the HiSoMA research laboratory (UMR 5189 — Histoire et Sources des Mondes Antiques) and the Maison de l'Orient et de la Méditerranée, the program offers direct access to leading research facilities and scholarly networks. A mandatory professional internship of at least three weeks in M1 allows students to gain practical experience in archaeology, museums, libraries, or research laboratories.
Key Program Highlights
- Co-accredited with ENS de Lyon, Université Lyon 2, and Université Savoie Mont-Blanc, providing access to seminars across multiple prestigious institutions
- Research-oriented training affiliated with the internationally recognized HiSoMA laboratory and Maison de l'Orient et de la Méditerranée
- Multidisciplinary approach combining ancient history, ancient languages (Latin, Greek), archaeology, and digital humanities
- Mandatory professional internship in cultural heritage, archaeological fieldwork, museums, or research laboratories
Curriculum and Modules
The Master in Ancient History is structured over four semesters across two years. In the first semester, a common core of 12 ECTS ensures all students share foundational knowledge in ancient languages, ancient history, and archaeology. Subsequent semesters allow for deeper specialization through discipline-specific seminars, research methodology training, and the progressive development of a research dissertation.
Common Core: Ancient History and Archaeology Foundations
12 ECTSA shared introductory module covering the major periods, civilizations, and chrono-cultural areas of the ancient world, with coursework in ancient languages, ancient history, and archaeology.
Ancient History Specialization Seminars
8 ECTSAdvanced research seminars in ancient history delivered across partner institutions (Lyon 3, Lyon 2, ENS de Lyon), focusing on Greek and Roman history, the ancient Near East, and Late Antiquity.
Interdisciplinary Thematic and Methodological Seminar
4 ECTSA cross-disciplinary seminar bringing together specialists in ancient languages, ancient history, and archaeology around a common theme that changes annually, fostering multidisciplinary research skills.
Epigraphy and Ancient Sources
4 ECTSTraining in epigraphic methods and the critical analysis of ancient textual sources, including inscriptions, papyri, and literary texts from Greek and Roman antiquity.
Transversal Skills: Languages, Digital Humanities, and Research Methodology
6 ECTSCoursework in modern foreign languages, digital humanities tools applied to ancient sources, and research methodology workshops including academic writing and dissertation preparation.
Research Dissertation
30 ECTSEach student writes and defends a research dissertation in their field of specialization during both M1 and M2, demonstrating mastery of historical methodology and original scholarly contribution.
Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
The Master in Ancient History is designed as a continuation of undergraduate studies in history or a closely related field. Candidates are expected to demonstrate strong academic performance, good written expression in French, and prior exposure to ancient history and at least one ancient language. All applications and inquiries should be directed through Uni4Edu.
Academic Requirements
- Academic BackgroundBachelor's degree (Licence) in History or equivalent, with validated coursework in Greek and Roman ancient history
- Alternative BackgroundsA Bachelor's in Classics (Lettres Classiques) or Art History and Archaeology with relevant ancient history coursework may also be considered
- Ancient LanguagesPrior initiation to at least one ancient language (Latin or Greek) is required
- Academic PerformanceStrong academic record with good grades in history and humanities subjects
- Written ExpressionDemonstrated strong written expression in French, as all coursework and the research dissertation are conducted in French
Language Requirements
- French ProficiencyAdvanced proficiency in French is essential, as 100% of the program is taught in French. A minimum B2 level (DELF/DALF or equivalent) is typically expected for non-native speakers.
- Ancient LanguagesFoundational knowledge of Latin or Ancient Greek is required at entry; further training is provided during the program
- Modern Foreign LanguageReading ability in at least one modern research language (English, German, or Italian) is recommended for engaging with scholarly literature
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
Several funding opportunities are available to support international students pursuing the Master in Ancient History at Jean Moulin Lyon 3 University. These include national French government scholarships, European mobility grants, and need-based financial aid. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on funding options suited to your profile.
France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship (Master's Level)
EUR 1,200/month stipend plus additional benefitsA prestigious French government scholarship for outstanding international students pursuing Master's degrees in priority fields including humanities and social sciences. It covers a monthly stipend, international and national transportation, insurance, and housing assistance for up to 12-36 months.
CROUS Social Grants (Bourses sur Critères Sociaux)
Variable based on financial situationNeed-based grants administered by the French student services organization CROUS, available to eligible students based on financial criteria. EU/EEA students and certain international students with residency status may qualify.
Erasmus+ Mobility Grants
Variable depending on home country and mobility typeEuropean Union-funded mobility grants available to students from Erasmus+ partner countries who undertake part of their studies at Jean Moulin Lyon 3 University through inter-institutional agreements. Contact Uni4Edu for eligibility details.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
The Master in Ancient History opens doors to diverse professional fields centered on research, education, and cultural heritage. Graduates develop advanced analytical, linguistic, and project management skills that are valued across the academic, cultural, and public sectors. The program also provides a strong foundation for doctoral studies and competitive examinations for heritage and teaching professions in France.
Potential Career Paths
Typical Employers and Institutions
Rankings and Recognition
Jean Moulin Lyon 3 University is a well-established public university in Lyon, France, recognized for its strong programs in humanities, social sciences, law, and management. As a member of the Université de Lyon consortium, the Coimbra Group, and the European University Association, it benefits from extensive international partnerships and collaborative research networks.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts & Social Sciences | EduRank | #38 in France |
| History (Research Output) | EduRank | Top 50% globally — Contact Uni4Edu for current data |
| Arts & Humanities | Shiksha Popularity Ranking | #533 globally |
| Overall (France) | EduRank | #66 in France |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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