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Masters in Ancient History
“When faced with an issue like social injustice or conflict, learning history gives you access to a vast knowledge foundation from which to draw.”
| The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that there will be 1,100 new job vacancies year, with the employment of historians and anthropologists/archaeologists expected to expand by 5% and 7%, respectively. | Graduates of ancient history can also succeed in other professions including accountancy, law, tourism, and journalism. | Graduates in ancient history typically make $55,091, with the top 20% earning $94,624 and the worst 20% earning around $32,074. | Ancient history, which includes the histories, societies, religions, material cultures, and languages of ancient Greece, Rome, and India, is the study of the past. Prehistory (about 1500 BCE) and the early medieval era (around 1000 CE) are among the topics covered. |
About Masters in Ancient History
A Master’s in Ancient History is a postgraduate academic degree program that focuses on the in-depth study and analysis of historical events, civilizations, cultures, and societies that existed in antiquity. This program typically covers a wide range of topics related to ancient civilizations, including but not limited to ancient Greece, Rome, Egypt, Mesopotamia, and other significant periods and regions in history. Students pursuing a Master’s in Ancient History delve into primary sources, archaeological findings, and various historical texts to gain a deep understanding of the past.
Why Study Masters in Ancient History Abroad?
- Access to Unique Resources: Many foreign universities boast extensive collections of historical artifacts, manuscripts, and archaeological sites, providing students with invaluable hands-on experience and research opportunities.
- Diverse Perspectives: Studying abroad exposes students to diverse perspectives and interpretations of ancient history. It allows them to engage with scholars from different cultural backgrounds, fostering a more well-rounded understanding of the past.
- Language Proficiency: If you choose to study in a country where the primary language is not your own, you have the opportunity to improve your language skills, which can be beneficial for translating historical texts and conducting research.
- Networking: International programs often attract students and faculty from around the world, creating a network of contacts that can be invaluable for future academic and career opportunities.
- Cultural Immersion: Living in a foreign country enables students to immerse themselves in the culture, history, and traditions of that region, providing a richer context for their studies.
- Career Opportunities: Completing a Master’s program abroad can enhance your resume and make you stand out to potential employers, as it demonstrates adaptability, independence, and a willingness to engage with diverse perspectives.
What Is the Role of an Ancient Historian?
Ancient historians play a crucial role in preserving and interpreting the past. Their responsibilities include:
- Research and Analysis: Ancient historians conduct extensive research using primary and secondary sources, archaeological findings, and historical texts to piece together the events, cultures, and societies of the past. They analyze these sources critically to draw meaningful conclusions.
- Teaching and Education: Many ancient historians work in academia, where they teach courses related to ancient history and mentor students. They help students develop critical thinking and research skills while sharing their expertise.
- Public Engagement: Some historians engage with the public through museums, exhibitions, and public lectures. They make history accessible to a wider audience and often contribute to public understanding of the past.
- Publishing and Writing: Historians frequently publish their research in academic journals, books, and other publications. Their work contributes to the scholarly conversation and advances the field of ancient history.
- Archival and Curatorial Work: Historians may work in archives, museums, or cultural institutions, preserving and cataloging historical artifacts and documents for future generations.
- Consultation: Historians often serve as consultants for historical accuracy in films, television shows, and documentaries set in ancient times.
Qualifications and Skills for Ancient Historian
To excel as an ancient historian, you need the following qualifications and skills:
- Education: A Master’s or Ph. D. in Ancient History or a related field is typically required for advanced research and teaching positions. However, some entry-level roles may be accessible with a Bachelor’s degree.
- Research Skills: Proficiency in research methods, critical thinking, and the ability to evaluate historical sources for authenticity and relevance are essential.
- Analytical Skills: Historians must be able to analyze complex historical data and draw well-reasoned conclusions from it.
- Communication Skills: Strong writing and speaking skills are vital for conveying historical information to both academic and non-academic audiences.
- Language Proficiency: Depending on your area of specialization, proficiency in ancient languages such as Latin, Greek, or hieroglyphics may be required.
- Archival and Museum Skills: Knowledge of archival and museum practices can be crucial for historians working in those environments.
- Technological Competence: Familiarity with digital research tools, databases, and software for data analysis is increasingly important in the field.
- Interdisciplinary Approach: Ancient history often intersects with other fields such as archaeology, anthropology, and classics. Being open to interdisciplinary collaboration can enhance your research.
Is a Master in Ancient History a Good Choice for You?
If you are passionate about the past, enjoy research, and analysis, and have a genuine interest in understanding ancient civilizations, then pursuing a Master’s in Ancient History can be an excellent choice for you. This program equips you with valuable skills in research, critical thinking, and communication, which are transferable to various careers in academia, museums, cultural institutions, publishing, and more. Moreover, if you have a desire to contribute to our understanding of the past and share that knowledge with others, a Master’s in Ancient History can be a fulfilling and intellectually rewarding path.
Study Options
There are numerous universities worldwide that offer Master’s programs in Ancient History. Some prestigious institutions known for their strong programs in this field include the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom, Harvard University and Princeton University in the United States, and the University of Rome La Sapienza in Italy. However, the right program for you depends on your specific interests, career goals, and geographic preferences. Consider factors such as faculty expertise, available resources, and research opportunities when choosing a program.
Career Pathways
A Master’s in Ancient History can lead to various career pathways, including:
- Academia: Many graduates pursue academic careers as professors, lecturers, or researchers in universities and colleges, where they teach and conduct research in ancient history.
- Museums and Cultural Institutions: Historians can work in museums, historical sites, and cultural institutions as curators, archivists, or educators, preserving and sharing artifacts and knowledge.
- Publishing and Journalism: Some historians become writers, authors, or journalists, producing historical books, articles, and content for publications and media outlets.
- Archival and Library Work: Careers in archives, libraries, and special collections involve cataloging, preserving, and managing historical documents and materials.
- Government and Policy Analysis: Historians with strong research and analytical skills may work in government agencies, think tanks, or policy research organizations.
- Consulting: Historians may provide historical consulting services to industries like film and television, ensuring accuracy in historical portrayals.
- Public History: Public historians engage with the broader community, conducting outreach programs, exhibitions, and educational initiatives.
Average Pay
Salaries for individuals with a Master’s in Ancient History can vary widely depending on the specific career path and location. Graduates of ancient history may expect to make a median income of $55,091, with the highest earners earning $94,624 and the lowest 20% earning more or less $32,074.
