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Universität Rostock
Master German Social Sciences

Alte Geschichte

Master of Arts (M.A.)

About the Program

The Master's program embeds the specialized knowledge acquired in the major subject in the interdisciplinary context of ancient studies. Ancient History, Greek Studies, Classical Archaeology, Latin Studies, and Prehistoric and Early History share the common goal of developing a differentiated picture of ancient cultures based on often highly fragmentary source material. The first four disciplines focus on Greek and Roman culture in the context of other ancient cultures. Students in the Ancient History program develop the ability to work independently in historical research in the field of antiquity. Knowledge and skills are deepened exemplarily, with special thematic attention to the Political Culture of Antiquity - on the ancient peculiarity of reaching collective decisions through public debates, on the ritualization of political communication, on the change of forms of rule, on their legitimation and criticism, on the special significance of semantics and orientation, and on the relationship between micro-social, actor-centered perspectives and macro-institutional, structural-historical framework conditions. The focus is on Political and Historical Anthropology and requires research-open studying and intensive reflection on the ancient traditions and conditions of free communities. In the major subject, the study concludes with the preparation and writing of a master's thesis in which an independent research project is carried out at a high scientific level. The acquired skills prepare for further academic career (doctorate) and allow entry into professionally relevant fields of activity (including museums, publishers, libraries, non-university research institutions, cultural and educational policy). In addition, the practiced analytical ability of complex relationships, the ability to work independently, and the research and presentation skills trained particularly through the study of Ancient History offer perspectives in non-subject-related professional fields, such as public relations, tourism, further education, business, or advertising.
Show the original English text
The Master's program embeds the specialized knowledge acquired in the major subject in the interdisciplinary context of ancient studies. Ancient History, Greek Studies, Classical Archaeology, Latin Studies, and Prehistoric and Early History share the common goal of developing a differentiated picture of ancient cultures based on often highly fragmentary source material. The first four disciplines focus on Greek and Roman culture in the context of other ancient cultures. Students in the Ancient History program develop the ability to work independently in historical research in the field of antiquity. Knowledge and skills are deepened exemplarily, with special thematic attention to the Political Culture of Antiquity - on the ancient peculiarity of reaching collective decisions through public debates, on the ritualization of political communication, on the change of forms of rule, on their legitimation and criticism, on the special significance of semantics and orientation, and on the relationship between micro-social, actor-centered perspectives and macro-institutional, structural-historical framework conditions. The focus is on Political and Historical Anthropology and requires research-open studying and intensive reflection on the ancient traditions and conditions of free communities. In the major subject, the study concludes with the preparation and writing of a master's thesis in which an independent research project is carried out at a high scientific level. The acquired skills prepare for further academic career (doctorate) and allow entry into professionally relevant fields of activity (including museums, publishers, libraries, non-university research institutions, cultural and educational policy). In addition, the practiced analytical ability of complex relationships, the ability to work independently, and the research and presentation skills trained particularly through the study of Ancient History offer perspectives in non-subject-related professional fields, such as public relations, tourism, further education, business, or advertising.

Which Professions Does This Program Open Up?

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Subjects / Topic Areas

Ancient History

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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Alte Geschichte at Universität Rostock

Is Alte Geschichte at Universität Rostock taught in German or English?

This Master programme is taught in German. Make sure to check the language requirements (e.g. TestDaF, DSH, IELTS or TOEFL) before applying.

How much does the Alte Geschichte programme cost?

No tuition fee (only semester contribution). International students should also budget around 800–1000 EUR/month for living costs in Germany.

What are the admission requirements for Alte Geschichte at Universität Rostock?

Typical requirements include: a recognised secondary/undergraduate degree, proof of language proficiency (German), and (for non-EU applicants) a uni-assist application plus financial proof (Sperrkonto ~11.904 EUR/year).

When is the application deadline?

Application deadlines vary: winter semester usually closes on 15 July, summer semester on 15 January. Always confirm the exact deadline on the official university website.

Can I work in Germany while studying Alte Geschichte?

Yes. International students may work up to 140 full days / 280 half days per year without additional permission. After graduation you can apply for an 18-month job-seeker permit.

How do I apply to Universität Rostock — directly or via uni-assist?

Most German universities accept international applications through uni-assist for document verification. Some unis accept direct applications — check the programme page on the official site.

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