Master of Arts in Anthropology of the Americas
Interdisciplinary MA programme exploring indigenous societies of Latin America through archaeology, ethnography, and cultural anthropology.
Best for:Best for students with a Bachelor’s in anthropology, archaeology, or related fields, seeking to specialise in Latin American indigenous societies with a focus on interdisciplinary research methods and fieldwork.
Overview
The Master of Arts in Anthropology of the Americas at the University of Bonn offers a unique interdisciplinary programme focused on the past and present of indigenous societies in Latin America. Students engage in archaeological, ethnohistorical, and ethnographic research, specialising in either cultural anthropology (e.g., sociopolitical dynamics of indigenous groups) or archaeology/ethnohistory (e.g., pre-Columbian societies and post-conquest transformations). The programme combines theoretical knowledge with regional expertise, including language courses in Amerindian languages like Náhuatl or Quechua. Fieldwork, internships, and study-abroad opportunities are integrated into the curriculum, preparing graduates for careers in academia, cultural management, museums, or international organisations.
What you'll do
- Conduct research in cultural anthropology, archaeology, or ethnohistory focusing on indigenous societies of Latin America.
- Develop specialised knowledge in either sociopolitical dynamics of present-day indigenous groups or pre-Columbian/post-conquest transformations.
- Complete a mandatory internship in archaeological projects, museums, NGOs, or cultural management settings.
- Write a Master’s thesis (30 ECTS) based on original research, presented in a public lecture.
- Engage in interdisciplinary coursework covering archaeological, ethnographic, linguistic, and museum studies perspectives.
- Participate in study-abroad opportunities through partnerships with universities in Europe and Latin America.
- Acquire professional experience through research projects, exhibitions, or ethnographic fieldwork.
- Develop intercultural competencies and regional expertise in Latin America.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in socio-cultural anthropology, archaeology, Latin American studies, or related fields. Applicants from other disciplines must demonstrate 24 ECTS of regional knowledge of the Americas with a minimum grade equivalent to 2.3 (German grading system).
Degree offered: Master of Arts (MA)
Language: English: B2 level (proven via placement test or interview); Spanish: CERF level A2 (recommended but not mandatory).
Instruction: English and Spanish (course language may be agreed collectively per module).
- Proven academic background in anthropology, archaeology, or related disciplines.
- Ability to conduct independent research and write academic papers.
- Basic proficiency in research methodologies (e.g., ethnographic fieldwork, archaeological analysis).
- Familiarity with Latin American history, culture, or indigenous societies.
- Willingness to engage in interdisciplinary collaboration.
- Open to applicants from all countries.
- No nationality restrictions.
- No age restrictions.
- No prior work experience required.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
Admissions not verified
A catalogue listing does not mean applications are open or funding is guaranteed. Check the source for your intake.
- Intake
- Not confirmed by the source
- Duration
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- Teaching language
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- Taught / research mode
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- Campus
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- Prerequisites
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- Tuition
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How to apply
Deadline: 15 March 2027 (summer semester) / 15 September 2027 (winter semester)
Applicants must submit their application via the University of Bonn’s official portal. Required documents include a certified translation of academic credentials (in English or German), proof of language proficiency (English B2, Spanish A2), a motivation letter, and academic transcripts. Additional materials may be requested depending on prior education. Applications are reviewed by the admissions committee.
- Certified translation of Bachelor’s degree and transcripts (English or German)
- Proof of English proficiency (B2 level, e.g., placement test or interview)
- Proof of Spanish proficiency (CERF level A2, if applicable)
- Motivation letter
- Academic CV
- Letter of recommendation (if required)
- Proof of regional knowledge of the Americas (if applicable)
Contact
Admissions Office, Institute of Archaeology and Anthropology· Programme Coordinator
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