ARCHAEOLOGY AND HISTORICAL SCIENCES

The inter-class Master’s Degree Programme in Archaeology and Historical Sciences aims to provide advanced, interdisciplinary training in the fields of historical and archaeological research, with a view to acquiring high-level theoretical, methodological, technical and operational skills. Its objective is to train specialised professionals capable of critically interpreting material and documentary evidence, understanding the complexity of historical and cultural processes, and operating with autonomy and scientific responsibility in the various areas concerned with the protection and enhancement of the historical and archaeological heritage.

The programme is designed to consolidate in graduates a broad and integrated body of knowledge relating to historical sciences, archaeological disciplines and material culture, fostering the ability to apply the methods of historical and archaeological research synergistically to the analysis and interpretation of cultural, social and territorial phenomena. Particular emphasis is placed on the in-depth study of the processes of transformation of ancient and modern societies, as well as on the critical examination of written, material, iconographic and digital sources from a comparative and interdisciplinary perspective. Graduates acquire specialist skills in history, cultural heritage and philology, and are able to address issues relating to different historical, geographical-environmental, historical-archaeological, artistic and epigraphic contexts. The methodological approach promoted by the programme combines knowledge of sources with the use of the most advanced information and telecommunication technologies applied to the cataloguing, documentation, reconstruction and enhancement of the historical and archaeological heritage.

The degree programme also pursues the following specific learning objectives: to ensure advanced proficiency in the Italian language, with particular attention to the specialist lexicons of the relevant disciplines; to ensure knowledge of at least one language of the European Union at a level no lower than B2 of the CEFR, also with reference to technical-scientific language and the consultation of international sources and bibliography; to develop the ability to operate with independent judgement, research skills and project-design abilities in the archaeological and historical sectors, with an aptitude for interdisciplinary and international dialogue; and to promote the ability to communicate and disseminate the results of scientific research within academic institutions, heritage protection bodies, museums and organisations responsible for the enhancement and public enjoyment of cultural heritage.

The structure of the programme integrates theoretical and methodological teaching with practical, laboratory-based and internship activities carried out at museums, Superintendencies, archaeological areas and parks, archives and documentation centres, as well as with excavation, survey and field research experience in collaboration with public and private bodies and cultural and local institutions. These experiences make it possible to combine the scientific and applied dimensions, strengthening the link between university education, research and the world of work, and fostering the acquisition of operational and interpersonal skills.

The Degree Programme also promotes international mobility through Erasmus+ programmes, summer schools and other forms of academic cooperation, offering students the opportunity to broaden their education and engage with the European and Mediterranean scientific community. International experience helps refine comparative analytical skills, intercultural awareness and the aptitude to operate in advanced and multidisciplinary research contexts, thereby strengthening the scientific and professional dimension of the programme.