Classics and Ancient Civilisations: Ancient Studies

The Master's degree in Classics and Ancient Civilisations: Ancient Studies at the University of Amsterdam offers a comprehensive exploration of the ancient world, focusing on the languages, history, literature, philosophy, and archaeology of ancient Greece and Rome. The programme emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, enabling students to gain deep insights into the cultural, social, and political aspects of classical antiquity. Students are encouraged to develop strong language skills in Latin and Greek, alongside the critical analysis of ancient texts and inscriptions. The curriculum combines coursework, seminars, and research projects, providing a solid foundation in both historical contexts and archaeological methods. The programme also offers specialty tracks that allow students to focus on particular areas such as ancient philosophy, ancient history, archaeology, or classical literature. Engaging with primary sources and utilizing modern archaeological findings, students learn to interpret and contextualize ancient phenomena. The innovative approach at the University of Amsterdam promotes not only academic excellence but also critical thinking and cultural awareness, preparing graduates for careers in academia, museums, cultural heritage organizations, or public history. The programme benefits from the university’s strong connections with international research communities, providing students with opportunities for internships, fieldwork, and conferences. Collaborative projects and the integration of digital humanities tools further enhance the learning experience. Graduates of the programme leave with a thorough understanding of the complexities of ancient societies, the ability to analyze ancient texts critically, and the skills to pursue advanced research or professional roles related to classical antiquity. This programme is ideal for students passionate about history, language, archaeology, or classical studies, offering an enriching academic environment within one of Europe's vibrant academic cities.

The Bachelor's program in Classics and Ancient Civilisations: Ancient Studies at the University of Amsterdam offers students a comprehensive overview of the ancient world, spanning the civilizations of Greece, Rome, Egypt, Mesopotamia, and other significant cultures from antiquity. This program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the history, culture, language, literature, art, and archaeology of these ancient societies. Throughout the course, students will develop critical skills in analyzing ancient texts and artifacts, understanding historical contexts, and understanding the influence of ancient civilizations on the modern world.

The program begins with foundational courses in ancient languages such as Latin and Greek, enabling students to read and interpret primary sources in their original languages. Alongside language studies, students explore courses in ancient history, philosophy, mythology, and cultural history, gaining insights into the societal structures, religious beliefs, and daily life of ancient peoples. A significant part of the program involves studying ancient art and archaeology, including fieldwork opportunities, which help students develop practical skills in archaeological excavation, artifact analysis, and interpretation.

Students are encouraged to critically examine different perspectives on ancient history and culture, fostering analytical and research skills essential for academic or professional careers. The program also emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, combining literary analysis, archaeological methods, and historical research to provide a well-rounded understanding of the ancient world. Academic staff at the University of Amsterdam are active researchers, ensuring that students have access to current discoveries and debates within the field of Classics.

In addition to coursework, students may have opportunities for internships, study abroad programs, and participation in research projects, all of which enhance their academic experience and prepare them for careers in education, museums, cultural heritage management, or further advanced studies. Graduates will be equipped with a broad set of skills, including language proficiency, critical analysis, research methodology, and cultural awareness, making them well-prepared for diverse professional paths related to the ancient world and beyond.

Program requirements for Classics and Ancient Civilisations: Ancient Studies at the University of Amsterdam include a combination of general admission criteria and specific course prerequisites. Prospective students must first meet the university's overarching entry requirements, which typically include a completed secondary education qualification comparable to the Dutch vwo diploma, with a sufficient level of Dutch and English language proficiency, as most courses are conducted in these languages. For non-native speakers, proof of English proficiency is usually required, such as IELTS or TOEFL scores, with minimum score thresholds set by the university. Additionally, candidates may need to submit a motivation letter or personal statement explaining their interest in classical studies and related fields, as well as a CV highlighting any relevant academic or extracurricular activities.

Once admitted, students are expected to have a foundational knowledge of classical languages, such as Latin and Ancient Greek, which are integral to the programme. For incoming students without prior language experience, preparatory courses are often available to develop necessary skills before commencing core modules. The curriculum itself demands successful completion of a series of core courses covering classical antiquity, archaeology, history, literature, and philosophy, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the cultural and historical contexts of ancient civilizations. Students are required to undertake a mix of lectures, seminars, and practical assignments, including analyzing ancient texts and artifacts.

Research skills are emphasized through assignments involving primary source analysis and independent project work. Bachelor’s candidates must complete a final thesis where they demonstrate their ability to conduct independent research in classical studies. The programme may also stipulate participation in excursions or archaeological fieldwork, depending on the specialization chosen. Interdisciplinary modules that integrate insights from archaeology, history, and philology are strongly encouraged to provide a holistic perspective. The programme encourages active participation in academic discussions and requires students to engage with current debates within the field of classical studies.

Students are advised to check the specific admission and programme guidelines annually, as requirements may evolve. It is recommended that applicants prepare their application well in advance, providing all necessary documentation. The university offers guidance through admissions offices and academic advisors to support students throughout the process. Completion of the programme qualifies graduates for careers in education, research, cultural heritage management, and related sectors, provided they meet the graduation requirements, including the successful defense of the final thesis.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

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в университете Амстердама программа Classics and Ancient Civilisations: Ancient Studies обычно предлагает студентам различные варианты финансирования, в том числе стипендии, гранты и возможности работы на кампусе. Студенты могут претендовать на национальные и международные стипендии, такие как Holland Scholarship, которая поддерживается государством и направлена на иностранных студентов, а также на университетские стипендии, выделяемые студентам на основе академических достижений. Кроме того, студенты могут получать финансирование через студенческие кредиты, предоставляемые налоговыми органами или другими финансовыми институтами, а также участвовать в работах на кампусе, например, в качестве ассистентов или помощников преподавателей, что позволяет дополнительно зарабатывать во время учебы. Некоторые студенты могут искать спонсорские программы или финансирование через организации, связанные с историей, археологией или классическими языками. Важно отметить, что конкретные возможности финансирования могут отличаться в зависимости от статуса студента (гражданин Нидерландов или международный студент), а также от наличия соответствующих стипендий или грантов. Университет Амстердама также рекомендует студентам подавать заявления на стипендии заранее, поскольку конкуренция за финансирование может быть высокой. Процесс подачи заявления обычно включает предоставление академических достижений, мотивационного письма и рекомендаций, а также выполнение требований по языковым навыкам. В целом, студентам рекомендуется тщательно планировать финансирование своей учебы, изучать все доступные ресурсы и возможности поддержки от университета и внешних организаций, чтобы обеспечить успешное завершение программы без финансовых затруднений.

The Bachelor's degree program in Classics and Ancient Civilisations: Ancient Studies at the University of Amsterdam offers students a comprehensive understanding of the ancient Mediterranean world, focusing on the civilizations of Greece and Rome, as well as their influence on Western culture. The program emphasizes the study of ancient languages, including Latin and Greek, enabling students to read and interpret original texts. Students explore the history, literature, philosophy, art, and archaeology of antiquity, gaining insights into the social and political developments of these ancient societies. The curriculum is designed to develop analytical and critical thinking skills, with a strong emphasis on historical context and cultural understanding.

Students have opportunities to participate in research projects, internships, and fieldwork, enhancing their practical knowledge and employability. The program is suited for those interested in archaeology, history, classical languages, and cultural studies. The teaching staff comprises experts in various fields of classical studies, offering personalized supervision and mentorship. The university employs innovative teaching methods, including digital tools and interactive seminars, to stimulate active learning. Graduates of this program often pursue careers in academia, museums, cultural heritage organizations, education, or continue their studies at the Master's level, specializing further in classical languages, ancient history, or archaeology. The program is designed to provide a solid foundation in classical studies, fostering a deep appreciation for the cultural legacy of ancient civilizations and developing skills applicable in numerous academic and professional contexts.