Middle Eastern Languages & Cultures: Egyptology, PhD
Middle Eastern Languages and Cultures (MELC). MELC’s graduate program in Egyptology offers advanced study of the languages and civilizations of ancient Egypt.
View the department's PhD general procedures.
For more information: https://nelc.sas.upenn.edu/graduate/fields-study/egyptology
Curriculum
Archaeology Concentration
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses | ||
| Primary Field - Archaeology, Art and Culture of Ancience Egypt | ||
| Any 5000 Level Course or Higher with an Attribute of HDEA | 7 | |
| Primary Field - History of Ancient Egypt | ||
| Any 5000 Level Course or Higher with an Attribute of HDAH | 2 | |
| Primary Field - Language of Ancient Egypt | ||
| Any 5000 Level Course or Higher with an Attribute of HDHL | 4 | |
| Secondary Field - Art and Archaeology | ||
| Any 5000 Level Course or Higher with an Attribute of HDAS | 6 | |
| Secondary Field - Archaeological Interpretation and Techniques | ||
| Any 5000 Level Course or Higher with an Attribute of HDAI | 1 | |
| Total Course Units | 20 | |
Language and Literature Concentration
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses | ||
| Ancient Egyptian Language and Literature | ||
| Any 5000 Level Course or Higher with an Attribute of HDEL | 8 | |
| History and Culture of Ancient Egypt | ||
| Any 5000 Level Course or Higher with an Attribute of HDEC | 6 | |
| Secondary Field - Language | ||
| Any 5000 Level Course or Higher with an Attribute of HDNL | 4 | |
| Secondary Field - History and Culture | ||
| Any 5000 Level Course or Higher with an Attribute of HDHC | 2 | |
| Total Course Units | 20 | |
Other Program Milestones
In addition to the above-described required coursework, PhD students are responsible for two (2) European language reading exams, candidacy exams, and qualifying exams before preparing a dissertation proposal.
Secondary Field in Egyptology
Graduate students in other programs (such as Mesopotamian Civilizations or Biblical Studies) who take a secondary field in Egyptology must take at least four courses in Egyptian language (Middle Egyptian and another significant phase) and two in history and culture.
- History of ancient Egypt (at least 2 courses with an attribute of HDAH)
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2024 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.