MRes Egyptology

Program Overview

The MRes in Egyptology at the University of Birmingham is designed to offer students a comprehensive, in-depth exploration of Egyptology. It combines the study of the ancient Egyptian language, literature, archaeology, and history with advanced research methods. The program provides a platform for students to undertake a research project in an area of their choice, supervised by experts in the field. Students will engage with a range of primary sources, including ancient texts, archaeological finds, and art, and will receive rigorous training in research methodologies. This program prepares students for professional careers in research, academia, museums, cultural heritage, and archaeology. By the end of the course, students will have completed an original piece of research, showcasing their ability to analyze and contribute to the study of ancient Egyptian civilization.

Curriculum: The MRes in Egyptology offers a well-rounded curriculum with both core and elective modules. The core modules focus on research skills, such as Research Methods in Egyptology, Textual Analysis, and Egyptian Archaeology. These modules provide students with the necessary tools to conduct independent research and critically analyze primary materials from ancient Egypt. In addition to core modules, students can choose from a variety of elective courses that allow them to specialize in areas of interest, such as Hieroglyphic Language and Literature, Egyptian Art and Architecture, or Egyptian Religion and Mythology. The flexibility of the curriculum allows students to tailor their studies according to their academic interests, while ensuring they gain a broad understanding of Egyptology. The program culminates in a dissertation, where students conduct original research on a specific topic within Egyptology, applying the knowledge and research skills they have developed throughout the course.

Research Focus: The MRes in Egyptology at the University of Birmingham emphasizes cutting-edge research in various aspects of ancient Egyptian civilization. The program encourages students to explore topics such as Egyptian archaeology, hieroglyphic language, Egyptian art, religion, and history. Students will engage with some of the most recent archaeological discoveries and scholarship in the field. The university's faculty is involved in a variety of Egyptological research projects, including excavations in Egypt, research on ancient Egyptian texts, and the study of Egyptian material culture. Students will have the opportunity to contribute to ongoing research in these areas, whether by analyzing newly discovered artifacts, interpreting ancient texts, or researching the political and social structures of ancient Egypt. This research-focused program ensures that students not only gain a thorough understanding of Egyptology but also develop the skills to conduct original research that can influence the field.

Industry Engagement: The MRes in Egyptology at the University of Birmingham provides excellent opportunities for industry engagement, particularly through the university’s strong ties with museums, archaeological institutes, and research organizations. Students can benefit from collaborative projects with institutions such as the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, the Egypt Exploration Society, and the Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology. These partnerships allow students to gain practical experience in handling Egyptian artifacts, curating exhibits, and participating in archaeological excavations. The university also has connections with international archaeological teams working in Egypt and other regions, offering students opportunities for fieldwork and research placements. Through these industry links, students gain exposure to real-world applications of Egyptology, preparing them for careers in museums, heritage sites, archaeology, and academia.

Global Perspective: The MRes in Egyptology at the University of Birmingham incorporates a global perspective, recognizing that Egyptology is a field that attracts scholars from all over the world. The program provides students with opportunities to engage with the latest international research in Egyptology and to collaborate with peers and experts from diverse cultural backgrounds. The university’s global research networks and international partnerships in Egypt and other countries ensure that students have access to the most current findings in the field, as well as the chance to participate in international conferences and workshops. Additionally, students benefit from studying ancient Egyptian civilization in the broader context of global history, exploring its influence on neighboring regions, as well as its enduring legacy in the modern world.