Department Mission

Archaeology and Art History, though broad and distinct in character, have been combined in this equally weighted degree program, to offer a visual, contextual and scientific analysis and understanding of historical and contemporary artifacts and images from Cyprus and further afield. The archaeological component, introducing real artifacts and projects into the learning environment, has a transformative effect on the classroom, while the Art History component utilizes the wealthy cultural environment in which EMU is located, using the art and architecture of Cyprus to the full; classical theatres, Gothic cathedrals, Renaissance palaces, and contemporary exhibitions and art projects. In keeping with the U.S. curriculum model, throughout the four-year undergraduate study period, students focus on a wide range of geographical and historical locations, studying the theories and developments of both disciplines up to, and including, the modern period.

Department Facilities

The historical environment of North Cyprus provides extensive practical study opportunities for our students, and research opportunities for the faculty. The Department itself is small and can treat students as individuals, identifying particular needs, strengths and goals. The department has an archaeological teaching / research laboratory, and students have the opportunity to participate in archaeological digs during the summer months.

As a growing Department we also have collaboration projects with the Department of Antiquities and Museums, one of which is the Underwater and Coastal Survey Project in North Cyprus , during which our students learn to dive and also get experience on land and underwater archaeology. A new, state-of-the-art, art gallery has recently been opened and the Department is planning to host a series of visiting international artists' exhibitions.

Eastern Mediterranean University awards scholarships to all academically successful students. In addition, the Department of Archaeology and Art History offers the William Dreghorn Travel Scholarship for student travel and research. Art Historians may also apply for the British Institute of Florence Scholarship which is awarded annually and enables a student to study in Italy .

Distinguishing Attributes

At present our archaeologists are conducting several research projects and fieldwork in Turkey and North Cyprus . The Art Historians are also actively involved in planning art exhibitions internationally and publishing widely within their disciplines. Students have the opportunity to work on artifacts in the Girne (Kyrenia) Castle Museum , to conduct a survey on the ancient capital of Salamis , and to participate in the excavation activities carried out at the Neolithic site of Tatlisu.

Quality of Graduates

Students have been awarded museum internships in Istanbul and Izmir, and recent graduates from our department are pursuing Master's degrees in Education, Archaeology, Architecture, Gallery and Museum Studies in North Cyprus, Turkey and the United Kingdom .

Job Opportunities

The double academic focus offered by the Department enables graduates to begin careers in a wide variety of areas: archaeologists, museum curators, art critics, art and antiques consultants, and gallery assistants or curators. Our graduates also have job opportunities in areas such as cultural tourism and eco-tourism, world heritage projects and organizations, international research organizations and government information services. The degree also seeks to provide students with a thorough background for further education at graduate level, opening opportunities for academic teaching and research.