Penn State’s M.A. program in Ancient Mediterranean Studies is a broad, interdisciplinary program focused on the cultures, literatures, and histories of the ancient Mediterranean world. Students combine course work on research methodologies with seminars in their own areas of interest. Possible areas of interest include: the Ancient Near East, Egypt, the Levant, the Hebrew Bible, early Judaism, Greece, Rome, Early Christianity, and the modern reception of the ancient Mediterranean world.
Our program prepares students for further academic work in Ph.D. programs, for teaching in secondary schools, as well as other types of careers (e.g., museum work, library studies). Our students explore the ancient world through its literature, history, and archaeology. In addition, we offer a wide array of ancient languages: Latin and Greek, but also Akkadian, Sumerian, Middle Egyptian, Biblical Hebrew, Aramaic, Coptic, and others. Our highly personalized program is an excellent choice for students interested in engaging deeply with the ancient Mediterranean world in all its complexity.
Funding
Some funding is available on a competitive basis. Students receiving funding will serve each semester as teaching or research assistant. The funding package also includes tuition remission. Some funding is also available for research travel.
Application Deadlines
For best consideration for funding for the Fall semester, please apply by January 15.
We will otherwise review applications on a rolling basis.
Degree Requirements
30 credits are required to complete the degree, consisting of:
- 18 credits in CAMS, GK, LATIN, HEBREW and other courses in related subject matter selected in consultation with the student’s adviser.
- 3 credits: CAMS /AML 550 (PROSEMINAR)
- 3 credits: CAMS / AML 560 (RESEARCH SEMINAR)
- 6 credits: CAMS 596 (MASTER’S PAPER)
Master’s Paper
During the second year of study, students will complete a master’s paper. It will be directed by their graduate faculty adviser and one additional member of the graduate faculty chosen in consultation with their graduate adviser. Both members must approve the paper in its final form before the adviser awards it a letter grade.