The master's program in Applied Landscape and Field Archaeology (ALFA) has a long name. This is explained by the multifaceted content that this degree program seeks to impart. It is a joint program of the Department of History and Cultural Studies at Freie Universität Berlin and the Department of Design and Culture at the Berlin University of Applied Sciences; accordingly, students from both institutions learn and conduct research here.
The master's program in Applied Landscape and Field Archaeology (ALFA) is deliberately practice-oriented in order to teach modern methods and concepts of both landscape and field archaeology. Central to this is an understanding of the dynamic development of spatial structures of natural and cultural landscapes as well as settlement processes. For this purpose, students are introduced to various methods such as 3D recording of finds and features, the use of geoinformation systems, modern surveying and documentation technology, etc., and are taught how to use these methods confidently. Archaeological teaching contents from different cultural areas and periods are deepened. Likewise, students are taught monument preservation strategies and archival documentation.
For admittance to the master’s program applicants need to fulfill the following admission requirements:
For applicants who have obtained their degree at a foreign university or equivalent institution, proof of German language skills must be provided. This can be done by passing the German Language Test for University Admission (DSH) or by providing proof of an equivalent level of knowledge according to the Regulations for the German Language Test for University Admission of Foreign Applicants at Freie Universität Berlin.
More information on admission criteria can be found in the Admissions Statute for the Joint Master’s Program Applied Landscape and Field Archaeology (ALFA) offered by Freie Universität Berlin and University of Applied Sciences Berlin ( Zugangssatzung für gemeinsamen konsekutiven Masterstudiengang Angewandte Landschafts- und Feldarchäologie (ALFA) ).