Course Overview

The Ancient Near East and Egyptology program at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) offers an in-depth study of the languages, cultures, and histories of the ancient Near East and ancient Egypt. This interdisciplinary program focuses on the civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, and surrounding regions, exploring their archaeological, textual, and historical significance. Students engage with ancient languages such as Akkadian, Sumerian, and Egyptian hieroglyphs, while also studying material culture through artifacts and excavations.

A unique feature of this program is its access to world-class resources and faculty expertise in ancient studies, supported by UCLA's strong reputation in humanities and historical research. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and the interpretation of ancient texts and artifacts, preparing students for advanced academic pursuits or specialized careers.

Career Prospects

Graduates of this program are equipped for careers in academia, museum curation, cultural heritage management, and archaeological research. The skills developed, including linguistic proficiency and analytical expertise, also open opportunities in education, publishing, and public history.

Key Faculty and Staff

The program is supported by distinguished faculty in the Department of Near Eastern Languages and Cultures at UCLA. Notable scholars include experts in Egyptology and Mesopotamian studies, though specific names are subject to change based on current university listings.

Unique Facilities and Partnerships

Students benefit from access to UCLA's extensive library collections, including specialized resources in ancient studies. The university also maintains connections with archaeological projects and cultural institutions, offering opportunities for fieldwork and collaboration with museums and research centers focused on the ancient Near East and Egypt.