Bachelor of Classical Studies

The Bachelor of Classical Studies at the Australian National University offers students an in-depth exploration of the ancient civilizations of Greece and Rome, their languages, cultures, histories, and philosophies. This comprehensive program is designed to provide a solid foundation in both classical languages—Greek and Latin—as well as the historical and cultural contexts in which these civilizations flourished. Students have the opportunity to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced understanding of the enduring influence of classical antiquity on contemporary society. The curriculum combines language acquisition with interdisciplinary courses in history, archaeology, philosophy, literature, and art, allowing students to grasp the complexities and richness of ancient civilizations from multiple perspectives. Through immersive learning experiences, including language practice, seminars, and research projects, students gain the skills necessary for advanced study or careers in fields such as education, archaeology, museum studies, academia, heritage management, and more. The program also emphasizes the importance of original texts and primary sources, encouraging students to engage directly with classical works in their original languages. With access to state-of-the-art facilities, expert faculty members, and a vibrant academic community, students are equipped to contribute meaningfully to the understanding of classical worlds and their lasting legacy. Graduates of the Bachelor of Classical Studies will be well-positioned to pursue further education or careers that require rigorous analytical abilities, cultural literacy, and a deep appreciation for the historical foundations of Western civilization. The program prepares students not only for specialized careers but also for lifelong learning and critical engagement with diverse cultural and intellectual traditions, fostering a global perspective rooted in classical scholarship.

The Bachelor of Arts in Classical Studies at the Australian National University offers students a comprehensive exploration of the ancient world's languages, cultures, history, and literature. The program is designed to develop a deep understanding of classical civilizations, including Ancient Greece and Rome, by focusing on their linguistic foundations, historical developments, philosophical ideas, and artistic achievements. Students will engage with the original texts in Latin and Greek, acquiring language skills that enable them to read and interpret classical works in their original form. The curriculum also emphasizes the contextual study of classical art, architecture, religion, and societal structures, providing a multidisciplinary perspective on ancient societies.

Throughout the program, students are encouraged to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and cross-cultural awareness. They will undertake rigorous coursework in classical languages, including courses in Latin and Greek linguistics and literature, along with modules in ancient history, philosophy, and archaeology. The program fosters an appreciation of the influence of classical civilizations on modern culture, politics, and language, highlighting their significance in contemporary society. Students may also have opportunities for practical experiences, such as participating in archaeological fieldwork or internships related to cultural heritage and museums.

The program structure allows for flexibility, enabling students to tailor their studies according to their interests within classical studies. They can choose elective courses in related disciplines like ancient history, philosophy, or linguistics, or focus on language acquisition and literary analysis. The collaboration with world-class scholars at ANU provides an enriching academic environment, encouraging research, discussion, and participation in seminars, workshops, and conferences. Graduates of the program are well-equipped for careers in academia, education, cultural heritage management, publishing, and other fields that value their analytical, linguistic, and historical skills. The Bachelor of Arts in Classical Studies at ANU aims to cultivate a profound understanding of the ancient world and its enduring influence on contemporary society, preparing students for diverse professional pathways and lifelong learning.

Program Requirements:

To complete the Bachelor of Arts in Classical Studies at the Australian National University, students are required to fulfill a set of core and elective courses designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of ancient Greek and Roman civilizations, languages, literature, history, philosophy, and archaeology. The program typically requires the successful completion of around 144 units over the duration of the undergraduate degree, usually completed in three years full-time study.

Students must undertake introductory courses in Ancient Greek and Latin languages to develop proficiency necessary for advanced textual analysis. These language courses are typically spread across the first two years of the program and may include courses such as CLAS1001 and CLAS1002, which focus on fundamentals of Greek and Latin language skills. Beyond language acquisition, students are encouraged to enroll in foundational modules that cover the history, culture, and archaeology of ancient Greece and Rome, such as CLAS2001 and CLAS2002.

In addition to language and history courses, students are expected to complete courses in classical literature, philosophy, and art. For example, courses like CLAS3001 (Greek Literature), CLAS3002 (Roman Literature), and CLAS3003 (Ancient Philosophy) are part of the core curriculum. To broaden their expertise, students choose electives from a wide range of topics, including classical archaeology, epic poetry, and ancient mythology.

Research projects and a capstone thesis are integral components of the program, allowing students to conduct independent research under the supervision of academic staff. The thesis typically requires the submission of a research paper of significant length and quality, demonstrating analytical and critical thinking skills.

To graduate, students must achieve a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) set by the university and fulfill specific credit point requirements in language, core, and elective courses. Participation in internships or study abroad programs focusing on classical studies may be recommended or required to enhance practical experience and cultural understanding.

Overall, the program aims to equip students with linguistic proficiency, historical and cultural knowledge, and research skills pertinent to classical studies, preparing graduates for careers in academia, education, archaeology, museum work, or related fields.

The Australian National University offers a comprehensive approach to financing studies for students enrolled in its Classical Studies programs. Tuition fees vary depending on whether students are domestic or international, with domestic students benefiting from government support through Commonwealth supported places and HECS-HELP loans, which significantly reduce the upfront cost of education. International students are required to pay full tuition fees, which are outlined annually and are subject to change. Students are encouraged to explore various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and bursaries specifically available for students in the humanities and classical disciplines. The ANU provides detailed information on scholarship opportunities at the time of application, some of which are merit-based and others need-based, offering partial or full fee waivers. Additionally, students may access external funding sources such as government scholarships and sponsorships from cultural or academic organizations interested in classical studies. The university also offers financial planning resources and counseling services to help students budget effectively, especially given the potential costs associated with study materials, travel, and accommodation if studying on campus. For domestic students, the availability of HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP schemes allows deferred payment options, making it more manageable to afford their studies without immediate financial burden. International students, while needing to arrange full payment upfront or through private loans, can benefit from flexible payment plans through the university’s financial services. Furthermore, students are advised to consider part-time work opportunities both on and off-campus, which are accessible for visa holders and domestic students, respectively. Employment programs and internships related to classical studies can also provide valuable experiential learning and supplementary income. The university maintains transparency on all associated costs and financial aid processes, encouraging prospective students to consult the official ANU website and financial services office for the most current and detailed information. Overall, the infrastructure and support systems at ANU aim to make the pursuit of Classical Studies as accessible and affordable as possible, emphasizing the university’s commitment to fostering academic excellence and cultural understanding amidst diverse financial backgrounds.

The Bachelor of Arts in Classical Studies at the Australian National University (ANU) offers students a comprehensive exploration of ancient civilizations, languages, and cultures, primarily focusing on Greek and Latin. This program aims to equip students with a deep understanding of the classical world, its historical significance, literature, philosophy, and archaeological findings. Throughout the course, students engage with original texts, learn relevant ancient languages, and analyze artifacts to develop a nuanced appreciation of the classical heritage. The curriculum combines language studies with cultural history, providing a multifaceted perspective on ancient Greece and Rome, which have significantly influenced Western civilization.

Students enrolled in this program have the opportunity to take specialized courses that cover a broad range of topics, including ancient mythology, classical art, political systems of ancient cities, and classical philosophy. The program emphasizes critical thinking, textual analysis, and historical contextualization, vital skills for students pursuing careers in academia, archaeology, museum curation, or related fields.

The program’s duration typically spans three years for full-time students, with flexibility for part-time study. It includes coursework, research projects, and potentially internship opportunities at relevant cultural heritage institutions. The ANU's strong ties with international archaeological projects and access to extensive digital and physical archives enhance student learning and research experiences.

Graduates of the Classical Studies program at ANU are well-prepared for diverse career paths, including research, teaching, cultural resource management, and public history. The program also lays a solid foundation for future postgraduate study in classical languages, history, archaeology, or related disciplines. Moreover, students develop transferable skills such as analytical thinking, research methodology, and effective communication, valuable across various professional landscapes.

Overall, ANU’s Classical Studies program provides a rigorous and enriching academic environment for students passionate about the ancient world, aiming to foster both scholarly expertise and a lifelong appreciation for the enduring legacy of classical civilizations.