Master
English
Social Sciences
Digital Studies of Ancient Texts
Master of Arts (M.A.)
About the Program
Digital Studies of Ancient Texts (DISTANT) is a two-year, full-time master's program taught in English at the campus of Freie Universität in Berlin. It is an interdisciplinary master's program that combines text- and language-related topics from Ancient Near Eastern Studies, Egyptology, and Coptology with computational modeling and analysis. What sets DISTANT apart is its unique integration of linguistic-philological topics from Ancient Studies with questions and methods of the Digital Humanities. While DISTANT shares content with traditional master's programs in Ancient Near Eastern Studies (Cuneiform Studies) and Egyptology, it sets itself apart by offering modules on digital methods. With a specific focus on computer-assisted processing and computational analysis of ancient texts, students acquire subject-specific and interdisciplinary methodological competencies that enable them to tackle complex questions on a variety of sources. This innovative approach offers students a comprehensive and sought-after skill set that is relevant to a variety of professional contexts.
General Requirements
Specific requirements for this program are not in our database yet. The following are typical for this degree and language in Germany — always verify the exact requirements on the program's official page.
Academic qualification
A recognised Bachelor's degree in a related field; some programs require a minimum grade or specific prerequisites.
Language
English proficiency (typically IELTS ~6.5 or TOEFL iBT ~90). Basic German is helpful for daily life.
Typical documents
- Recognised diploma and transcript (certified translations)
- Language certificate
- Passport and passport photo
- Tabular CV (Lebenslauf)
- Letter of motivation (for many programs)
- Application via uni-assist / VPD (for most international applicants)
Which Professions Does This Program Open Up?
Related profession searches from Bundesagentur für Arbeit (BERUFENET) data:
Explore all professions →Subjects / Topic Areas
Ancient Studies
Digital Humanities
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How do I apply to Digital Studies of Ancient Texts at Freie Universität Berlin, E-Medien?
Most international applicants apply via uni-assist (document verification + APS for some countries). Prepare your secondary/Bachelor diploma, transcripts, language certificate (DSH/TestDaF or IELTS/TOEFL), motivation letter and CV. Non-EU students also need a Sperrkonto (~11,904 EUR/year) for the visa.
- Check requirements — Verify your degree is recognised + meet language/grade thresholds.
- Get language certificate — TestDaF / DSH for German programmes, IELTS / TOEFL for English.
- Submit via uni-assist (non-EU) — Document review + APS if your country requires it (China, India, Pakistan, Vietnam, etc.).
- Apply directly or via uni portal — Some universities accept direct applications — check the official programme page.
- Open Sperrkonto + apply for visa — After admission, deposit 11,904 EUR, get health insurance, book embassy appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about Digital Studies of Ancient Texts at Freie Universität Berlin, E-Medien
Is Digital Studies of Ancient Texts at Freie Universität Berlin, E-Medien taught in German or English? ▼
This Master programme is taught in English. Make sure to check the language requirements (e.g. TestDaF, DSH, IELTS or TOEFL) before applying.
How much does the Digital Studies of Ancient Texts programme cost? ▼
No tuition fee (only semester contribution). International students should also budget around 800–1000 EUR/month for living costs in Germany.
What are the admission requirements for Digital Studies of Ancient Texts at Freie Universität Berlin, E-Medien? ▼
Typical requirements include: a recognised secondary/undergraduate degree, proof of language proficiency (English), and (for non-EU applicants) a uni-assist application plus financial proof (Sperrkonto ~11.904 EUR/year).
When is the application deadline? ▼
Application deadlines vary: winter semester usually closes on 15 July, summer semester on 15 January. Always confirm the exact deadline on the official university website.
Can I work in Germany while studying Digital Studies of Ancient Texts? ▼
Yes. International students may work up to 140 working days a year without additional permission (a day of up to 4 hours counts as half a day). After graduation you can apply for an 18-month job-seeker permit.
How do I apply to Freie Universität Berlin, E-Medien — directly or via uni-assist? ▼
Most German universities accept international applications through uni-assist for document verification. Some unis accept direct applications — check the programme page on the official site.