Middle Eastern Languages & Cultures, PhD: Egyptology
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 | |
| Teaching Requirement | ||
| One semester of teaching is required | ||
| Language Requirement | ||
| Students must demonstrate proficiency in two languages | ||
| 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 | |
| Teaching Requirement | ||
| One semester of teaching is required. | ||
| Language Requirement | ||
| Students must demonstrate proficiency in two languages | ||
| Total Course Units | 20 | |
University PhD Benchmarks
In addition to Program requirements, the following milestones must be completed:
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Qualifying Evaluation | ||
| Candidacy Examination | ||
| Dissertation Defense/Oral Exam | ||
| Dissertation Deposit | ||
For more information view the University’s Academic Rules for PhD Programs.
- 1
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 2025 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.