Program Overview

Archäologien

Introduction to Archäologien

Archäologien is a field of study that explores the remnants of the past to understand cultural developments from the beginning of humanity to the present day. It examines the living conditions, socio-cultural aspects, and technical, economic, and artistic developments that shaped human societies. Archäologien is an object-oriented science that involves describing, analyzing, and comparing objects and buildings from past cultures to place them in a broader context.

Key Aspects of Archäologien

• Cultural science techniques, such as reading and writing texts, as well as discussing theories and sources, are fundamental to Archäologien.
• Practical work, including excavations, prospecting, and scientific analyses, is also essential, along with digital methods for documentation and visualization.
• The curriculum in Zurich covers a wide geographical and temporal spectrum, from the beginnings of human societies to the Middle Ages and the early modern period, offering a broad range of research methods.

Who is Suited for Archäologien?

There is no typical Archäologien student. A broad interest and openness to learning new and unexpected content are crucial. If you are fascinated by complex questions about past societies, want to understand archaeological finds and art objects in their original context, and are drawn to the variety of methods and content, then Archäologien is the right field for you.

Student Testimonial

"The study program is very diverse. Besides pondering over the finds and intensive research in the library, you also spend a lot of time in nature under different conditions. Practical and physical work, whether in the heat of Sicily or in the snowy mountains, can be part of it. Teamwork with other students is also an important and enriching part of the study program. Archaeology deals not only with material things but primarily with people. Therefore, openness to different perspectives and life plans is also beneficial. Working with cultural heritage is a privilege. Therefore, conveying our research results to society is also important. Archaeology is not boring!"

Career Prospects

Graduates of our study programs are characterized by independent scientific work and a critical approach to evaluation methods and research results. They have in-depth knowledge of archaeology and competencies in the areas of technology, documentation, and communication, which are in demand in many professional fields. The strong practical and research-oriented approach of the study programs enables our students to build a professional network during their studies and facilitates their entry into the job market.

Potential Employers and Activities

• Employers:
  • Offices for the preservation of monuments (cantonal archaeologies), excavation companies
  • Museums, research institutions, universities
  • Publishing houses, libraries, archives
  • Cultural authorities, education system, tourism
• Activities:
  • Excavations
  • Documentation
  • Archiving
  • Reconstruction
  • Dating and interpreting archaeological finds and historical sites
  • Communicating cultural science content to the specialist world and the public

Additional Information

For Those Interested

• Bachelor's program in Archäologien
• For study applicants
• Lecture directory
• Contact study program advisory service

Location

More about the location

Institute for Archaeology
Ramistrasse 73
8006 Zurich