Classical, Medieval and Early Modern Studies

The Bachelor's degree program in Classical, Medieval, and Early Modern Studies at the University of Groningen offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of the historical periods that have shaped Western civilization. This program provides students with a broad understanding of the cultural, social, political, and intellectual developments from antiquity through the late Middle Ages and into the early modern era. Students will engage with a diverse range of sources, including ancient texts, archaeological findings, medieval manuscripts, and early modern documents, fostering critical analysis and contextual understanding.

Designed for students with a keen interest in history, literature, philosophy, art, and culture, this program emphasizes the interconnectedness of different disciplines within the humanities. Students will examine classical Greek and Roman civilizations, the transformative medieval period, and the profound changes brought about during the Renaissance and Early Modern times. The curriculum includes courses on ancient and medieval languages, literature, philosophy, history, and art, providing both language skills and contextual knowledge essential for in-depth research and interpretation.

Throughout the program, students will develop essential skills such as critical thinking, scholarly research, and effective communication. They will learn to analyze primary sources, interpret historical narratives, and critically evaluate the influence of classical and medieval ideas on modern thought. The program also offers opportunities for specialization in areas such as classical antiquity, medieval studies, or early modern history, enabling students to tailor their education to their personal academic interests and career aspirations.

The university's excellent resources, including specialized libraries, historical collections, and research centers, support students' academic pursuits. Small class sizes foster close interaction with faculty members, facilitating personalized mentorship and guidance. The program prepares graduates for diverse careers in education, research, cultural heritage, museums, publishing, and diplomatic services, as well as for further academic study at the master's level.

By combining historical depth with interdisciplinary approaches, the Bachelor's program in Classical, Medieval, and Early Modern Studies at the University of Groningen offers a rich academic experience that uncovers the foundations of Western civilization and prepares students to become insightful, culturally aware global citizens.

Program Overview

The Bachelor’s Degree in Classical, Medieval, and Early Modern Studies at the University of Groningen offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of the history, culture, literature, and philosophy of antiquity through early periods. This programme provides students with a deep understanding of the origins of Western civilization, examining ancient Greece and Rome as well as the medieval and early modern eras that shaped contemporary society. Designed for students with a passion for history, Languages, culture, and societal development, the programme combines broad, thematic modules with specialized courses that foster critical thinking and analytical skills.

Throughout the programme, students will engage with primary sources, historical texts, and archaeological findings, developing the ability to interpret and contextualize historical artifacts and literature. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics including classical mythology, philosophy, art history, medieval literature, Renaissance humanism, and the societal structures of early modern Europe. Emphasis is placed on acquiring proficiency in Latin and/or Greek, which are essential for engaging directly with original texts, complemented by courses in modern languages and translation techniques.

Students will have opportunities for practical experience through research projects, field visits to museums and archaeological sites, and collaborative seminars. The programme also encourages an interdisciplinary approach, combining history, philology, linguistics, and cultural studies to provide a holistic understanding of the periods studied. Theoretical perspectives underpin all courses, enabling students to critically assess historical narratives and cultural developments.

The three-year bachelor’s programme prepares students for diverse career paths, including academia, education, museum work, cultural management, and further specialization through master’s programmes. Graduates will have developed language skills, historical knowledge, and analytical abilities that are highly valued in many professional fields. The programme’s flexible structure allows students to tailor their studies according to their interests, with opportunities to focus on specific periods, regions, or thematic topics.

The University of Groningen provides an inspiring academic environment with experienced faculty, rich cultural heritage, and modern facilities. Combining rigorous academic training with cultural engagement, the programme aims to cultivate informed, culturally aware, and critically-minded graduates who are equipped to contribute to society through scholarship, education, or cultural preservation. By the end of the programme, students will possess a solid foundation in the history and culture of classical, medieval, and early modern periods, ready to pursue further academic research or professional endeavors in related fields.

Admission requirements

Excellent academic record.

Other requirements

1. cijferlijst Excellent academic record.
2. taaltoets cijfer Minimum requirement of TOEFL iBT 97 (with a minimum of 24 on writing skills) or IELTS 7 (with a minimum of 6.5 on all items). ERK level C1.
3. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) BA degree in: * History * Classics * Medieval Studies * a European language and culture study (with a specialization in literature and culture) * another related field

The financing options for the Classical, Medieval and Early Modern Studies programme at the University of Groningen primarily consist of government grants, student loans, and possibly scholarships for eligible students. Students applying for Dutch-funded programmes can benefit from the Dutch government’s student finance system, which includes loans and grants designed to support higher education in the Netherlands. International students from the European Union may have access to certain financial arrangements or grants, which can be applied through national or European funding bodies, although specific scholarships are limited and competitive. Non-EU international students are generally responsible for tuition fees and living expenses, and they are encouraged to seek external scholarships or funding opportunities offered by private foundations, cultural organizations, or their home countries.

The University of Groningen also offers a range of scholarships aimed at both Dutch and international students, such as the Holland Scholarship, which provides financial support to talented students from outside the Netherlands. Additionally, students may explore grants or fellowships that support research or specific areas of study within the field of classical, medieval, and early modern studies. Student loans through the Dutch government are available to eligible students, providing financial assistance for tuition fees and living costs, repayable after graduation depending on income level.

Students are advised to consult the university’s financial aid office and the official website for the most current and detailed information about available funding opportunities, application procedures, and eligibility criteria. Furthermore, many students combine various sources of funding, including personal savings, family support, external scholarships, and part-time work, to finance their studies. Overall, the financial support landscape at the University of Groningen aims to make higher education accessible, though the extent of support may vary based on nationality, residency status, and specific student circumstances.

The Master's program in Classical, Medieval and Early Modern Studies at the University of Groningen offers an in-depth exploration of Western history, literature, philosophy, and art from antiquity through the late Middle Ages and into the early modern period. This interdisciplinary program is designed to develop students' critical thinking, analytical skills, and detailed knowledge of cultural developments that have shaped the modern world. Students have the opportunity to engage with a wide range of primary sources, including ancient manuscripts, medieval texts, and early modern documents, facilitated by expert faculty members specializing in Classics, Medieval Studies, and Early Modern Studies. Coursework covers various themes such as classical heritage, medieval philosophy, Renaissance humanism, and early modern political and social transformations. The program encourages students to gain proficiency in relevant languages, including Latin, Greek, Old English, and other languages pertinent to their research interests, enabling a deeper understanding of original sources. Research methods training is a key component, equipping students with tools for historical analysis, philology, and textual interpretation. The program often includes seminars, workshops, and research projects, fostering collaboration and scholarly exchange among students and faculty. Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in academia, archaeology, museum work, cultural heritage management, publishing, and further doctoral research. The program aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the cultural and intellectual history of Western civilization, emphasizing critical engagement with primary sources and fostering a global perspective on historical developments. The University of Groningen supports students in accessing extensive library resources and research facilities tailored to classical, medieval, and early modern studies. Overall, this master's program is ideal for those passionate about historical inquiry, literature, languages, and cultural history, seeking to contribute scholarly insights into the heritage of Western civilization.