Archaeological Sciences (BA)
FAU Campus Erlangen, Germany
Bachelor of Arts in Archaeological Sciences
University of Erlangen–Nuremberg (FAU)
Archaeological Sciences
Program Overview: BA Archaeological Sciences at FAU
The Bachelor of Arts in Archaeological Sciences at FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg is a comprehensive undergraduate program that explores the material legacies and traces of past cultures, from the Palaeolithic Age through the Greek and Roman world to the end of the Byzantine Empire. The program uniquely combines three sub-fields — Prehistoric, Classical, and Christian Archaeology — offering an unusually broad scope of archaeological study within a single degree.
The program takes a particularly practical approach, giving you hands-on experience with two large publicly accessible teaching collections where you can learn museum work and conduct research using original objects. Archaeology at FAU relies on interdisciplinary collaboration with neighboring disciplines including history, philology, art history, geosciences, biology, and computer science.
You can choose to study Archaeological Sciences as either a one-subject or a two-subject Bachelor's degree, allowing you to tailor your academic profile. Through a teaching alliance with the University of Bamberg, students can extend their archaeological studies to cover periods up to modern times, further broadening the scope of this already comprehensive program.
Key Program Highlights
- Three integrated sub-fields: Prehistoric, Classical, and Christian Archaeology in one degree program
- Hands-on training with two large publicly accessible teaching collections featuring original archaeological objects
- Flexible study options as a one-subject or two-subject Bachelor's degree with interdisciplinary combinations
- Teaching alliance with the University of Bamberg extending archaeological study coverage to modern times
Curriculum & Modules
The BA Archaeological Sciences curriculum is structured across six semesters, beginning with foundational introductions to archaeological methods and scientific work before progressing to specialized study in the three sub-disciplines. Students complete compulsory and elective modules combining lectures, seminars, practical exercises, and fieldwork to build both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Introduction to Archaeological Methods
10 ECTSFoundational module covering core archaeological methodologies, scientific research techniques, and analytical approaches used across all sub-disciplines of the program.
Prehistory and Early History
10 ECTSStudy of human cultures from the Palaeolithic Age through early historical periods, examining material remains, settlement patterns, and cultural development over millennia.
Classical Archaeology
10 ECTSExploration of the material culture, art, and architecture of ancient Greek and Roman civilizations, including analysis of sculpture, ceramics, and urban planning.
Christian Archaeology
10 ECTSExamination of early Christian and Byzantine material culture, including church architecture, funerary art, iconography, and the transition from late antiquity to the medieval period.
Practical Archaeological Training
10 ECTSHands-on module featuring museum work, object documentation, excavation techniques, and research with original artifacts from FAU's extensive teaching collections.
Bachelor's Thesis
10 ECTSIndependent research project on a topic within one of the three archaeological sub-fields, demonstrating the ability to apply scientific methods and present findings in an academic format.
Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
The BA Archaeological Sciences at FAU has no admission restrictions (numerus clausus), making it accessible to all qualified applicants. International students should ensure they meet both academic and language requirements before applying through Uni4Edu.
Academic Requirements
- Academic QualificationGeneral university entrance qualification (Abitur or recognized international equivalent)
- Admission RestrictionsNo numerus clausus — open admission for all qualified applicants
- Foreign Language RequirementProof of two foreign languages (English and one additional language) required
- Latin ProficiencyBasic Latin knowledge required; can be demonstrated by end of 4th semester if Latin is one of the two foreign languages
- Additional Language RecommendationLearning a third foreign language is strongly recommended for Archaeological Sciences studies
Language Requirements
- German ProficiencyDSH 2 or equivalent (e.g., TestDaF 4x4) required for international applicants
- English ProficiencyProof of English as one of two required foreign languages
- Additional LanguageOne further foreign language beyond English (e.g., French, Italian, Greek, or Latin)
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg offers several funding opportunities for students, and as a public university in Bavaria, there are no tuition fees for degree-seeking students. Various scholarships from the university, the German government, and external foundations can help support your studies. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on funding options.
Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship)
EUR 300 per month (EUR 3,600 per year)A merit-based scholarship funded jointly by the German government and private donors, awarded annually to talented students at FAU. Open to both German and international students with strong academic records, and renewable each year throughout the standard study period.
DAAD Scholarships for International Students
Varies by programThe German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers various scholarship programs for international students studying in Germany, including study scholarships, research grants, and the PROMOS mobility program for stays abroad.
Bavarian Max Weber Program
EUR 900 per semester plus study abroad fundingAn excellence program for outstanding students at Bavarian universities, offering financial support, mentoring, networking opportunities, and early involvement in research. Students can be nominated by the university or self-nominate from the third semester onward.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the BA Archaeological Sciences program at FAU are well-prepared for careers in monument conservation, museums, and academic research, thanks to the program's broad methodological training and practical orientation. While the BA provides a solid professional foundation, many career paths in archaeology require a Master's degree or doctoral qualification for advancement.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employers
Rankings & Recognition
Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) is one of Germany's largest and most research-intensive universities, consistently ranked among the top institutions globally. Founded in 1743, FAU is recognized for its interdisciplinary approach and strong research output, placing in the top 10 percent of universities worldwide.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Arts & Humanities | QS World Rankings | Top 300 |
| Materials Science | QS Subject Rankings | #95 |
| Industry Collaboration | THE World Rankings | #1 Worldwide |
| Citations per Researcher | QS World Rankings | #59 |
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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