Computer and Geoscience in Archaeology Hochschule für Technik und Wirtschaft Dresden – University of Applied Sciences

All mandatory courses and some elective courses are held in English. There is the possibility to attend elective courses in German language, too.

Archaeology deals with the material remains of the history of humankind. The role of applied sciences and technologies in this research field is ever-increasing. An interdisciplinary team at HTWD – University of Applied Sciences offers a Master's degree programme which furthers interdisciplinary skills and cooperation between archaeology, computer science and spatial information science. The curriculum is designed to upskill graduates from the diverse fields of archaeology. The students will be provided training in the basics and methods of computer and geosciences. All students will receive training in the application of spatial and object-focused technologies such as GIS, remote sensing and 3D documentation and processing. Another important focus will be research data management, with an emphasis on open data policies and linked open data. Finally, strategies and technologies of knowledge dissemination, public outreach and legal and ethical standards will be taught. During the curriculum, the students are entitled to participate in the research projects of the cooperating institutions, gathering experiences in the field. The students will thereby be trained to address problems and contribute to the development of solutions fit for the diverse needs in archaeology and cultural heritage institutions and enterprises.

International applicants:
15 June via uni-assist for the following winter semester

German applicants:
1 May to 15 July for the following winter semester

The courses consist of lectures, seminars/practice, and hands-on tutorials.

First semester

• Geodesy
• Geographic Information Systems
• Introduction to Digital Archaeology
• Applied Mathematics and Computer Science
• Applied Programming (Python)
• Language course

Second semester

• Photogrammetry
• Foundations in Data Science and Engineering
• Academic Research and Writing
• Databases and Research Data Management in Archaeology
• Computational Archaeology
• Fieldwork / internship
• Elective courses

Third semester

• Remote Sensing
• Digital 3D Documentation in Archaeology
• Project Seminar Digital Archaeology
• Reconstructive 3D Modelling in Archaeology
• Introduction to Programming in Java
• Elective courses

Fourth semester
Master's thesis

PDF Download

No tuition fees

The semester contribution amounts to approx. 300 EUR per semester. The fee includes a semester ticket covering public transport in Germany and student services.

The cost of living amounts to approx. 850 to 950 EUR per month to cover personal expenses. This includes accommodation at a cost of 300 to 350 EUR per month.

First university degree with a Bachelor's or Diploma in archaeology and neighbouring fields with achievements equivalent to 180 credits according to ECTS (European Credit Transfer System)

Applicants who are not native English speakers must successfully pass a language test. You should prove level B2 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages by having at least 550 points in TOEFL, 72 in TOEFL iBT, 6.5 in IELTS, a B in the Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English, or a Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English.

International applicants:
15 June via uni-assist for the following winter semester

German applicants:
1 May to 15 July for the following winter semester

The university has a scholarship programme for excellent students (Deutschlandstipendium). Recipients receive approx. 300 EUR per month.

On campus: A limited number of student assistant positions and tutoring jobs are available. Knowledge of English is usually sufficient for these positions.

Off campus: The Career Service at HTWD supports international students when searching or applying for jobs. Students are allowed to hold off-campus jobs for a maximum of 20 hours per week during the lecture period and to work a maximum of 140 full days or 280 half days per year (according to regulations for foreign students requiring a visa). Basic knowledge of German is usually required for off-campus positions.

The Studentenwerk Dresden is responsible for student services. It offers a wide range of accommodation for students. Students can choose between small apartments for individuals, large apartments for student families, and numerous single and double rooms in flat shares. Students have to apply for accommodations via an online application procedure: https://www.studentenwerk-dresden.de/english/wohnen/antrag.html (English).

Private housing can be found online: http://www.wg-gesucht.de/en/.

The Career Service of HTWD assists students with job search and applications by offering workshops, individual consultations and coaching sessions.

HTWD also has a Consulting Centre for Company Founding (HTWD Gründungsschmiede), which helps new start-ups develop a business idea, create a business plan and use work stations and infrastructure for free.

Engineering, economics, design, and "green" disciplines represent the primary focus of HTWD – University of Applied Sciences.

Studies at the HTWD focus on practical education, giving you an excellent hands-on study experience. In addition, the HTWD is well-connected and works closely with partners in industry.

State-of-the-art laboratories, the university's globally connected computer network, an extensive library, and a language centre also ensure an effective and top-quality study.

The central campus is located on the southern edge of the Dresden city centre in close proximity to the main railway station and provides a relaxed social atmosphere that facilitates contact with fellow students as well as activities and social events hosted by the student council. The campus at Pillnitz is situated in the immediate vicinity of the famous Pillnitz Castle and Park. Rich in tradition and surrounded by a beautiful natural landscape, this campus is home to the Faculty of Agriculture/Environment/Chemistry.

The HTWD also offers a variety of sports, musical performances, and cultural experiences.

Dresden, the capital city of the state of Saxony, is located in the Elbe river valley, one of the most scenic landscapes in Germany. Dresden has all benefits of a major city and is a great base for excursions to explore the nature that surrounds the city.

The cultural life of the city is diverse. Students can explore baroque buildings, the Old Master’s Gallery and treasure chambers like the Green Room. The city also offers a great number of theatres, concert venues, open-air stages, clubs, party locations and festivals. Old Town street cafés purvey Mediterranean flair, whereas the modern New Town, the "Neustadt", attracts guests to its trendy bar and pub scene and is a particularly lively place to meet students and friends after class.

In addition to arts and culture, business and science shape the image of the capital of Saxony, which has become one of the top technological regions in Germany.

Dresden is well connected to other European cities/capitals by plane, train, and bus, offering many options to discover culture in Europe. Further information is available at: https://www.dresden.de/index_en.php.