Classical Archaeology and Classical Civilisation

The BA in Classical Archaeology and Classical Civilisation at University College London is an intellectually stimulating program that offers students an in-depth understanding of the ancient Mediterranean world, encompassing the cultures, art, history, and archaeology of Greece and Rome. This interdisciplinary degree provides a comprehensive exploration of classical civilization, combining the analysis of archaeological finds, ancient texts, and cultural history to give students a well-rounded understanding of the ancient world’s impact on contemporary society. Throughout the course, students have the opportunity to study the art, architecture, and material culture of antiquity, as well as delve into the literature, philosophy, and political history of classical Greece and Rome. The program emphasizes both theoretical and practical approaches, with modules dedicated to fieldwork, archaeological techniques, and the critical interpretation of artifacts and texts.

Students will develop skills in research, analysis, and critical thinking, preparing them for careers in academia, museums, archaeology, cultural heritage, and related fields. The program encourages active learning through seminars, workshops, and independent research projects, fostering an analytical mindset and a deep appreciation for the historical significance of classical civilizations. Additionally, students are offered opportunities for hands-on experience in archaeological excavations and site visits, enhancing their practical understanding of archaeological processes. The curriculum is flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests, whether focusing primarily on archaeological methods, ancient history, or classical languages. By the end of the degree, graduates will have gained a rich understanding of the ancient world and the skills necessary to contribute to the conservation, interpretation, and appreciation of ancient heritage in various professional contexts. Combining rigorous academic study with practical experience, the program prepares students to become knowledgeable and thoughtful ambassadors of classical antiquity, equipped to pursue advanced research or careers in related sectors.

In each year of your degree you will take a number of individual modules, normally valued at 0.5 or 1.0 credits, adding up to a total of 4.0 credits for the year. Modules are assessed in the academic year in which they are taken. The balance of compulsory and optional modules varies from programme to programme and year to year. A 1.0 credit is considered equivalent to 15 credits in the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).

Most of the degree is structured around a combination of core and optional modules. In your first year, you will receive a solid grounding in both the practical and theoretical methods in archaeology, as well as an introduction to the study of ancient languages.

The second and third years provide a more advanced understanding of archaeology and allow you to develop your own specialised interests by choosing optional modules in particular subject areas.

All students registered for this degree are required to undertake a four-week study visit to the Mediterranean as part of their 70 days of fieldwork. This is an individual programme of visits to sites and museums around the Mediterranean developed by you in conjunction with the degree co-ordinator. The study tour allows students to pursue aspects of their first two years of coursework in more depth, and prepare for their final-year dissertation, through extended critical first-hand examination of sites and artefacts of the ancient Mediterranean.

In the third year you are given the chance to reflect critically on your fieldwork experience during the degree through a fieldwork portfolio or fieldwork study report, and to write a 10,000-word dissertation on a detailed subject that you will choose with the help of a supervisor.

A levels

Grades

AAB-ABB

Subjects

No specific subjects.

GCSEs

English Language and Mathematics at grade C. For UK-based students, a grade C or equivalent in a foreign language (other than Ancient Greek, Biblical Hebrew or Latin) is required. UCL provides opportunities to meet the foreign language requirement following enrolment, further details at: www.ucl.ac.uk/ug-reqs

IB Diploma

Points

34-36

Subjects

A score of 16-17 points in three higher level subjects, with no score lower than 5.

Funding for the Classical Archaeology and Classical Civilisation programmes at University College London is available through a variety of sources, including government loans, scholarships, bursaries, and external grants. Students who are UK residents may be eligible for Student Finance England, which provides Tuition Fee Loans and Maintenance Loans to cover tuition costs and living expenses. The university also offers a range of merit-based scholarships to outstanding applicants, which can significantly reduce the financial burden. International students are encouraged to seek funding through external organizations, charitable foundations, and government sponsorships specific to their home countries. Additionally, UCL provides some internal bursaries and hardship funds to support students facing financial difficulties during their studies. Students are advised to explore the financial support options early in their application process and consult the university’s dedicated scholarships and funding webpages for the most comprehensive and up-to-date information. It is also recommended that students apply for external funding opportunities, such as research grants or awards offered by cultural and archaeological societies, which can supplement university support. Part-time employment opportunities are available both within UCL and in surrounding areas, providing students with additional income sources. Overall, students should plan their finances carefully, considering tuition fees, accommodation costs, learning materials, personal expenses, and potential income from part-time work or scholarships. The university strives to make its programmes accessible by providing various financial support options, but students are responsible for securing their funding and applying within specified deadlines. For detailed guidance tailored to individual circumstances, prospective students and current students are encouraged to contact UCL’s Student Funding Office or visit the official website dedicated to student financing.

The Classical Archaeology program at University College London offers students an in-depth exploration of ancient Greek and Roman worlds through the study of material culture, art, architecture, and archaeology. The program combines traditional archaeological methods with critical analysis of ancient societies, providing a comprehensive understanding of the cultural, historical, and social contexts of classical civilizations. Students engage with a wide range of topics including Greek and Roman religion, daily life, urban development, and artistic achievements. The curriculum typically includes the study of archaeological fieldwork, museum techniques, and the interpretation of artifacts, enabling students to develop practical skills alongside academic knowledge. Throughout the course, students are encouraged to analyze both the physical remains of antiquity and their representation in literary and historical sources, fostering a multidisciplinary approach. The program may also provide opportunities for excavation projects, visiting ancient sites, and working with collections in museums. Graduates are prepared for careers in archaeology, heritage management, museums, education, and further academic research. The program is designed to suit students with diverse interests in ancient history, art, and archaeology, offering foundational and advanced modules to cater to different academic levels. The academic staff are experts in their fields, providing mentorship and guidance throughout the course. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and an understanding of the significance of archaeological findings in reconstructing the past. Students benefit from UCL’s extensive resources, including access to collections, laboratories, and research centers dedicated to classical studies. Overall, the Classical Archaeology program combines rigorous academic training with practical experience, making it an ideal choice for students passionate about the ancient Mediterranean world and its enduring legacy.