Classics and Ancient Civilisations

The Bachelor's Programme in Classics and Ancient Civilisations at Leiden University offers students an in-depth exploration of the ancient Mediterranean world, focusing on ancient Greece, Rome, and their surrounding cultures. This programme provides a comprehensive understanding of the history, language, literature, archaeology, and philosophy of the classical civilizations that have significantly influenced Western culture and society. Throughout the course, students develop skills in critical analysis, ancient languages such as Latin and Ancient Greek, and research methodologies relevant to classical studies. The programme combines theoretical coursework with practical training in reading ancient texts, conducting archaeological research, and interpreting artifacts. Students are encouraged to examine primary sources and engage with interdisciplinary perspectives to better understand the political, social, and cultural developments of antiquity. The curriculum includes mandatory courses in classical languages, history, archaeology, philosophy, and literature, ensuring a well-rounded education in the field. Elective options allow students to specialize further in specific areas of interest, such as Greco-Roman art, mythography, or reception studies. Leiden’s strong emphasis on research and critical thinking prepares graduates for careers in academia, museums, cultural heritage organizations, journalism, and other fields related to history and the arts. The programme also offers opportunities for international exchange, internships, and collaborative projects, enriching the academic experience and broadening career prospects. With its distinguished faculty and extensive resources, Leiden University provides an ideal environment for students passionate about understanding the roots of Western civilization and the enduring legacy of the classical world. Graduates of this programme emerge with a nuanced appreciation of ancient cultures and their relevance to contemporary society, equipped with analytical, linguistic, and research skills that are highly valued across a variety of professional contexts.

The Bachelor's program in Classics and Ancient Civilisations at Leiden University offers an in-depth exploration of the languages, literature, history, and cultures of the ancient Mediterranean basin, including Greece and Rome. This comprehensive program aims to provide students with a thorough understanding of the classical world through a multidisciplinary approach that combines linguistic proficiency with historical and archaeological insights. Students begin their studies by learning Latin and Greek, the foundational languages of Western antiquity, which enable them to read original texts and appreciate the richness of classical literature, philosophy, and historical documents. As they progress, students expand their knowledge of ancient history, art, politics, and society, gaining a broad perspective on the development of ancient civilizations and their enduring influence on modern culture.

The curriculum includes a combination of language courses, literary analysis, and contextual studies, allowing students to develop critical skills in textual interpretation and historical analysis. Courses in archaeology and material culture provide hands-on experience with artifacts and ancient sites, offering practical insights into archaeological methods and classical everyday life. The program emphasizes the development of both linguistic competence and contextual understanding, preparing students for diverse careers in academia, education, museums, cultural heritage, and related fields. Throughout the program, students are encouraged to engage in independent research projects, participate in seminars, and take advantage of Leiden’s extensive resources, including access to a vast collection of ancient manuscripts and archaeological archives.

The university also offers opportunities for international exchange, allowing students to study abroad at partner institutions in Greece, Italy, and other countries with rich classical traditions. This international experience enhances language skills and cultural understanding, fostering a global perspective on classical antiquity. Upon completion, graduates will possess a deep knowledge of the ancient world, the ability to analyze classical texts critically, and practical skills in archaeological research. The program aims to equip students with a strong foundation for further academic study or careers that value historical and cultural literacy, analytical thinking, and intercultural competence. Whether you are passionate about classical languages, history, or archaeology, this program provides a solid platform to delve into the fascinating world of ancient civilizations and their enduring legacy.

The Bachelor's programme in Classics and Ancient Civilisations at Leiden University requires students to complete a comprehensive curriculum that provides a strong foundation in ancient Greek and Latin languages, as well as an in-depth understanding of the history, literature, and culture of the ancient Mediterranean world. Students are expected to acquire proficiency in both ancient languages, which typically involves completing language courses at various levels, including beginner, intermediate, and advanced stages. In addition to language proficiency, the programme explores classical archaeology, philosophy, history, and literature, encouraging students to analyze ancient sources critically and to interpret archaeological findings within their cultural and historical contexts.

Students must undertake both theoretical and practical coursework, which includes seminars, lectures, and assignments designed to develop analytical and research skills. The programme also emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from history, literary studies, archaeology, and philology to provide a well-rounded understanding of the ancient civilizations. Throughout their studies, students are often required to complete modules on classical mythology, everyday life in antiquity, and the influence of ancient Greece and Rome on later periods.

In the later stages of the programme, students may have the opportunity to choose specializations or electives that align with their interests, such as classical philology, ancient history, or archaeology. A significant component of the programme typically involves a research project or thesis, where students apply their acquired knowledge and skills to investigate a specific topic related to classical antiquity in depth. Additionally, students might be encouraged or required to participate in internships, study abroad programs, or fieldwork to gain practical experience and broaden their perspective.

Assessment methods include written exams, essays, oral presentations, and the final thesis, which together aim to evaluate students' understanding, analytical abilities, and research competence. The programme aims to prepare graduates for careers in academia, museums, cultural heritage organizations, or other fields where expertise in ancient civilizations is valuable. Overall, the Classics and Ancient Civilisations programme at Leiden University offers a rigorous and enriching academic journey that combines language mastery with a comprehensive understanding of classical antiquity, fostering critical thinking and intercultural awareness.

Financing studies for the Classics and Ancient Civilisations: Classics program at Leiden University typically involve a combination of government funding, university scholarships, and external financial support. Dutch students enrolling in this program can usually benefit from the Dutch student finance system, which includes tuition fee loans and covering living expenses through student grants if they meet specific eligibility criteria. The Dutch government provides federal student loans to residents, and these are often supplemented by supplementary grants for students from low-income backgrounds. International students are generally responsible for paying tuition fees; however, they may have access to scholarships and grants offered by Leiden University or external organizations aimed at supporting international students studying in the Netherlands. Leiden University offers various forms of financial aid, including merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, and specific funds for students from certain countries or backgrounds. Prospective students are advised to check the university’s official website for current scholarship opportunities and application procedures, as these are subject to change annually. Additionally, some students may seek funding through private foundations or educational loans from their home countries or international financial institutions. The costs associated with studying in the Netherlands include tuition fees, which vary depending on the student’s nationality and specific programme, as well as accommodation, health insurance, study materials, and personal expenses. To finance their studies effectively, students are encouraged to explore all available options, including partial scholarships, part-time work opportunities, and government or private student loans. Leiden University also provides financial advice and support services to help students plan their budgets and navigate the application process for various funding options. Overall, while the exact financing package depends on individual circumstances, many students successfully finance their Classics studies through a combination of university funding, government support, scholarships, and personal resources.

The Bachelor’s degree in Classics and Ancient Civilisations at Leiden University offers an in-depth exploration of the history, culture, languages, and literature of ancient Greece and Rome. This program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of classical antiquity and its relevance to the modern world. Students have the opportunity to study a variety of subjects including Latin and Greek languages, classical literature, archaeology, philosophy, and art history. The curriculum is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep appreciation of ancient civilizations through both theoretical coursework and practical research projects. Students may also engage with digital humanities tools and methodologies, enhancing their research capabilities in the context of classical studies.

The program is structured to allow flexibility, enabling students to tailor their courses according to their interests, whether they are more inclined toward linguistic studies, historical analysis, or archaeological fieldwork. Leiden University’s strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning fosters a broader understanding of ancient societies and their influence on subsequent cultures. The program often includes opportunities for international exchanges or internships, providing students with practical experience and global perspectives. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to pursue careers in academia, education, cultural heritage, museums, archaeology, or related fields. They gain valuable skills such as critical analysis, research proficiency, language competence, and cross-cultural understanding. Overall, the Classics and Ancient Civilisations program at Leiden University aims to cultivate knowledgeable, versatile graduates capable of engaging critically with the ancient world and its enduring legacy.