Digital and Computational Archaeology
Master of Arts (M.A.)
| Standard period of study | 4 semesters |
|---|---|
| Start of study | Winter semester |
| Teaching language | English |
| Credit points | Subject: 90 CP + Master’s Thesis: 30 CP = 120 CP |
Course description
Digital and Computational Archaeology is concerned with the development and application of digital technologies and computational methods in archaeology. The MA Digital and Computational Archaeology is designed to equip archaeology graduates with practical, theoretical and critical skills in a variety of established and emerging digital technologies, and support a career in academia, cultural resource management, museums as well as public and private cultural heritage organisations. Students of this programme are offered the opportunity to use the facilities of the Cologne Digital Archaeology Laboratory (CoDArchLab), which is equipped with teaching, research and study spaces, numerous workstations, a variety of commercial and open source software programs, as well as specialised computational imaging equipment.
Students of the MA Digital and Computational Archaeology will have the opportunity to:
- Develop core computing skills in Data Science (database theory and design, data visualisation and representation, network science) and Web technologies and become acquainted with current issues in archaeological research data management.
- Familiarise themselves with the use of state-of-the-art 3D technologies and media and learn which techniques are best suited for data capture, documentation and analysis in different situations and contexts (e.g. fieldwork, museum, research projects).
- Think critically on the application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), spatial analysis, and computational modelling in archaeology, and learn how to best apply computational methods to gain insights into human behaviour and socio-political organisation in past natural and built environments.
- Learn to identify current issues, problems and developments in the field of Digital Humanities and gain practical experience in the application and development of methods and tools that can benefit Humanities research more broadly.
- Take work placements (Praktika) in excavations, museums, or cultural heritage management organisations and test their practical skills in real life situations.
It may be necessary to provide proof of language skills upon admission to the master's program. You can find more information in the admission regulations.
Core Computing I introduces important concepts in database theory and design, Data Science and archaeological research data management. Core Computing II focuses on the representation and management of archaeological spatial data. Core Computing III offers an introduction to Web technologies and programming principles.
Specialisation Modules: SM1 introduces students to tools, methods, data models and current issues in Digital Humanities and Cultural Heritage. SM2 offers an overview of 3D documentation and 3D modelling techniques in archaeology. SM3 focuses on Spatial Analysis and computational modelling and introduces students to theories and current themes in Digital Archaeology. SM4 offers the possibility for internships, placements and independent studies in the area of Digital Archaeology.
Advanced Module: The Advanced Module offers a number of elective courses in Digital and Computational Archaeology, Archaeology and Digital Humanities.
Supplementary Module: Supplementary Module 1 offer students the possibility to develop further individual areas of interest and competences within Digital and Computational Archaeology, Digital Humanities, Archaeological Sciences or a related subject. The Supplementary Module 2 enables the recognition of CP obtained at another university in Germany or abroad. Students should choose one of the two Complementary Modules on offer.
Modules - Digital and Computational Archaeology | |||
Core Modul | |||
| Core Computing | |||
Specialisation Modules 1 & 2 | |||
| SM1: Digital Humanities | SM2: 3D Documention and Modelling | ||
Specialisation Modules 3 & 4 | |||
| SM3: Spatial Analysis and Modelling | SM4: Internships and Independent Studies | ||
Advanced Module | |||
| Specialisation | |||
Supplementary Modules 1 or 2 | |||
| EM1: Complementary Studies | EM2: Mobility | ||
MASTER'S THESIS | |||
Nowadays, the use of digital and computational methods pervades every aspect of archaeological knowledge production, especially data capture, documentation, visualisation and analysis. Graduates with a specialisation in digital and computational archaeology will be offered a wide range of opportunities for an academic career in Archaeology and Digital Humanities, and will be well-suited for positions in cultural resource management, museums, and public and private cultural heritage organisations. Furthermore, they will have completed relevant work placements and gained valuable real life working experience, which is very much appreciated by employers. The skills acquired in this study programme are highly transferrable to fields outside archaeology, including the public and private sector.
Course advice
The Departmental Advisors are available to answer subject-specific questions.
You can contact the Interdisciplinary Student Advisory Service if you would like to receive interdisciplinary advice, have specific questions, e.g. about subject combinations, recognition, change of location/transverse entry or graduation - or if you do not know who to contact with your questions.