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Ancient Near Eastern Studies● OpenMastersPreview

Research Master’s in Assyriology

Explore the languages, literatures, and cultures of the Ancient Near East with cutting-edge research at Leiden University.

Best for:Best for students with a strong interest in ancient Near Eastern languages, literatures, and cultures, seeking a research-focused master’s programme with opportunities for international collaboration and interdisciplinary study.

Leiden University · Leiden, Netherlands
More professors at Leiden University
Ancient Near Eastern languagesMesopotamian literatureCuneiform script studiesAncient Near Eastern culturesComparative ancient civilizationsDigital humanities in archaeology
This is a masters position — not a PhD studentship.
Deadline
Apr 1, 2027
169 days
Funding
—
2 years
Start date
Flexible (typically aligned with academic calendar)
Location
Leiden
Netherlands

Overview

This research master’s programme in Assyriology at Leiden University offers a multidisciplinary exploration of the languages, literatures, and cultures of the Ancient Near East. Students engage with internationally renowned academics who are actively involved in pioneering research, ensuring a dynamic and immersive learning experience. The curriculum allows for flexibility, enabling students to tailor their studies by combining courses from Assyriology and other research master’s programmes within the Faculties of Humanities and Archaeology. The programme also encourages international exchange, with opportunities to study at partner universities such as SOAS, University College London, Münster, and Heidelberg. Ideal for those passionate about ancient civilizations and eager to contribute to ongoing scholarly advancements.

AssyriologyAncient Near EastCuneiform studiesMesopotamian historyResearch master’s programmeLeiden UniversityInternational academic exchangeHumanities research

What you'll do

  • Conduct independent research on languages, literatures, and cultures of the Ancient Near East under academic supervision.
  • Develop a specialized curriculum by selecting courses from Assyriology and other research master’s programmes.
  • Engage in interdisciplinary study combining humanities and archaeology perspectives.
  • Participate in research projects led by internationally acclaimed academics.
  • Collaborate with partner universities for international academic exchange opportunities.
  • Present research findings in academic seminars and conferences.

Requirements

Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in Classics, Ancient Civilizations, Assyriology, or a related field in Humanities or Archaeology

Degree offered: Master of Arts (Research)

Language: English; Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (180), Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (180), IELTS overall band (6.5), or TOEFL internet-based (90)

Instruction: English

Required skills
  • Advanced proficiency in academic research and critical analysis
  • Strong written and oral communication skills in English
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment
Nice to have
Prior experience in ancient language studies (e.g., Akkadian, Sumerian, Hittite)Familiarity with digital humanities tools and methodologiesInterest in interdisciplinary research combining humanities and archaeology
Eligibility
  • No specific nationality restrictions
  • No age restrictions
  • No prior experience caps beyond a completed Bachelor’s degree

Funding & terms

Type
Unknown
Amount
—
Duration
2 years
Programme
—

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
Not confirmed by the source
Teaching language
Not confirmed by the source
Taught / research mode
Not confirmed by the source
Study mode
Not confirmed by the source
Campus
Not confirmed by the source
Prerequisites
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Application instructions
Not confirmed by the source
Tuition
Not confirmed by the source
Funding
Not confirmed by the source

How to apply

Deadline: 2027-04-01

Applicants must submit their application through Leiden University’s official online portal. Required documents include a CV, a letter of motivation, academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and a research proposal outlining the intended focus of study. Additional materials may be requested depending on the specific programme requirements.

Documents required
  • CV
  • Letter of motivation
  • Academic transcripts
  • Proof of English proficiency (Cambridge Certificate, IELTS, or TOEFL)
  • Research proposal
↗Check programme and admissions
Lab
Classics and Ancient Civilizations Research
Leiden University
Netherlands
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Check admissions, intake and funding with the official source; a listing does not mean applications are open.