This international joint-degree Master’s programme is delivered in cooperation between Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus‑Senftenberg (Germany) and Helwan University (Cairo). Taught in English, the course leads to a jointly awarded Master of Arts and concentrates on the knowledge and practical methods needed to administer and manage archaeological sites.
The curriculum blends technical conservation approaches with broader management and communication skills: conservation strategies and methods, strategic heritage management and planning, visitor management, presentation and interpretation, plus leadership skills and an understanding of the tourism sector. The emphasis is on preparing graduates to tackle the multifaceted demands of running and presenting heritage places.
The partnership grew out of recognition of the exceptional cultural resources across the Arab states—regions often described as cradles of civilisation—where many spectacular archaeological sites serve as touchstones of identity, research, and economic opportunity. These sites commonly present interpretation challenges in their incomplete states and face threats from urban expansion, tourism pressures, armed conflict, and climate change—issues that are equally relevant in Europe and other regions.
Key facts
Overview This two-year (four-semester) Master's programme awards 120 ECTS and combines theoretical foundations with applied project work to prepare graduates for careers in conservation, site management and related fields. Applicants must select either BTU Cottbus‑Senftenberg or Helwan University as their home institution when applying. The curriculum includes mandatory coursework, project-based learning, elective modules and a master's thesis with oral defence.
Key modules and learning outcomes Core modules—Academic Work and Research Methodology, Heritage Conservation, Archaeology, Introduction to Heritage Site Management, and Principles of Tourism and Visitor Management—provide a solid grounding in conservation theory, archaeological context, and the social/economic aspects of managing heritage places. Through two supervised study projects and the elective module choices, students gain practical experience in site analysis, management planning, stakeholder engagement and visitor management strategies. The programme culminates in an independent master’s thesis and oral defence, demonstrating the ability to plan and conduct research at an advanced level and to communicate findings professionally.
Structure and mobility The course is organised to foster international and interdisciplinary exchange: a mobility phase of at least one semester at the partner university is mandatory. The intended semester sequence is: semester 1 at the chosen home university, semester 2 jointly at BTU Cottbus‑Senftenberg, semester 3 jointly at Helwan University, and semester 4 back at the home university to complete the master’s thesis and defence. This structure ensures exposure to different academic environments and regional heritage contexts.
Curriculum and requirements (concise)
This program is aimed at applicants who already hold an undergraduate degree and who come from disciplines related to the study and care of cultural heritage. If your background is in archaeology, architecture, conservation, history, tourism, or a closely related area, your academic qualifications will fit the entry expectations. Professionals who have built relevant experience in heritage work are also invited to apply.
If your prior qualification is outside the listed subjects, the examination board will review your submitted application materials to decide whether it is equivalent and suitable for admission. Make sure your application documents clearly demonstrate the content and level of your previous studies or relevant professional experience so the board can assess equivalence.
Winter Semester (International)
15 July 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 July 2026
Graduates are prepared for professional roles in heritage and site management, including positions in site administration, conservation departments, museums, cultural resource management, visitor and tourism management, and interpretation services. The programme's mix of conservation methods, strategic planning, visitor management and leadership skills suits careers in national heritage agencies, international organisations (e.g. UNESCO), NGOs, archaeological institutions and heritage consultancy.
Given the programme's international focus and mandatory mobility, alumni are also well positioned for cross-border projects, research roles, and continuation to doctoral studies. The curriculum addresses contemporary threats to sites (urbanisation, tourism pressure, conflict, climate change), equipping graduates to design and implement management strategies in both local and global contexts.
Bauhaus-Universität Weimar — Weimar
Bauhaus-Universität Weimar — Weimar
Bauhaus-Universität Weimar — Weimar
Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg — Cottbus