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 worlds that have significantly shaped Western culture and civilization. This interdisciplinary programme provides a comprehensive understanding of the history, literature, language, art, and archaeology of ancient Greece and Rome, as well as their broader civilizations. Students will engage with primary sources in Latin and Greek, gaining valuable language skills that enable them to read classical texts in their original form. The curriculum emphasizes critical analysis and contextual understanding, enabling students to examine the political, social, religious, and cultural aspects of ancient societies.

Throughout the programme, students will participate in lectures, seminars, and practical coursework that foster analytical thinking and academic writing skills. They will have opportunities to study ancient manuscripts, examine archaeological findings, and explore classical art and architecture. The programme also encourages interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from history, archaeology, literature, and philology to provide a well-rounded understanding of the ancient world.

Leiden University’s renowned faculty, comprising experts in classics, archaeology, and ancient history, guides students through the complexities of classical civilizations. The programme prepares graduates for diverse career paths, including academia, museum work, archaeology, education, cultural heritage management, and further research. With its rich academic environment, modern facilities, and access to extensive digital and archival resources, the Classics and Ancient Civilisations programme at Leiden University offers an excellent foundation for students interested in the ancient past and its enduring influence on contemporary society.

The Bachelor’s programme in Classics and Ancient Civilisations at Leiden University offers a comprehensive exploration of the literature, history, and culture of the ancient Mediterranean world. Throughout the course, students will delve into the languages and writings of Ancient Greece and Rome, gaining proficiency in Latin and Greek, which are essential for understanding the primary texts and inscriptions. The programme provides a thorough grounding in the history, mythology, philosophy, and art of classical antiquity, enabling students to develop a nuanced understanding of the cultural and societal developments that shaped Western civilization.

The curriculum combines linguistic training with contextual studies, encouraging students to interpret literary texts, historical sources, and archaeological findings within their historical settings. Students will study a broad range of topics, including classical mythology, political history, philosophy, and daily life in ancient Greece and Rome. Emphasis is placed on developing critical analytical skills, historical awareness, and an appreciation for the cultural diversity of the ancient world.

In addition to language and content courses, students engage in practical exercises such as translating original texts, analyzing artworks and inscriptions, and participating in archaeological data interpretation. The programme also offers opportunities for specializations, allowing students to focus on particular aspects such as classical literature, ancient history, or archaeology.

Leiden University’s Classics and Ancient Civilisations programme encourages interdisciplinary learning, often integrating insights from archaeology, art history, and philology. Students are supported by experienced instructors and researchers, and the programme promotes active participation through seminars, workshops, and research projects. Graduates are well-equipped for careers in academia, museums, cultural heritage, education, and related fields that require detailed knowledge of the classical world. The programme aims to foster a deep understanding and passion for ancient civilizations, equipping students with the analytical and linguistic skills necessary for advanced study or professional practice in fields related to classics and ancient history.

Admission requirements

See website www.unileidenmasters.nl

Other requirements

1. minimum kennis (ISPAC: overige vereisten) Zie www.unileidenmasters.nl voor meer informatie.
2. minimum kennis (ISPAC: overige vereisten) See website www.unileidenmasters.nl
3. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) Bachelor of vergelijkbare graad in een toepasselijk discipline.
4. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) BA degree in a relevant subject (see website www.unileidenmasters.nl for details)

The financing of the Classics and Ancient Civilisations program at Leiden University is primarily composed of various funding options available to both Dutch and international students. Dutch students are typically eligible for government-funded study loans and grants, such as the Studiefinanciering scheme, which provides financial support contingent upon residency status and academic progress. These grants can cover tuition fees, living expenses, and study materials, making it accessible for students from the Netherlands.

International students pursuing the Classics and Ancient Civilisations program have several avenues for financial support. Leiden University offers a range of scholarship programs, including the Holland Scholarship, which is targeted at outstanding students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA). Additionally, there are university-specific scholarships and grants based on academic excellence and need, which can significantly reduce the financial burden for international students. Students are encouraged to explore external funding options, such as scholarships provided by their home countries or international organizations promoting higher education.

Tuition fees for the Classics and Ancient Civilisations program vary depending on the student’s nationality. EEA students benefit from the standard Dutch tuition rate, which is considerably lower than the international fee. Non-EEA students are subject to higher tuition fees, but this can be offset through scholarships or financial aid opportunities. Leiden University also provides information on part-time work opportunities and internships that students can undertake during their studies to support themselves financially.

Furthermore, the university promotes financial planning and offers advice and support services to help students manage budgets, access funding seamlessly, and navigate the application processes for various grants and scholarships. Prospective students are encouraged to consult the official Leiden University website and contact the university’s financial aid office for comprehensive and tailored information about available funding sources, eligibility criteria, application procedures, and deadlines.

Overall, the financing of the Classics and Ancient Civilisations program at Leiden University is designed to be accessible with a combination of government funding, university scholarships, external grants, and work opportunities, ensuring that students can focus on their academic pursuits without undue financial stress.

The Bachelor’s degree in Classics and Ancient Civilisations at Leiden University offers a comprehensive introduction to the history, culture, languages, and societies of the ancient Mediterranean world, including Greece and Rome. The program is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in classical languages such as Latin and Greek, enabling them to read original texts and analyze primary sources. Apart from language acquisition, students explore various aspects of ancient civilizations, including literature, philosophy, art, architecture, archaeology, and social history.

The curriculum combines language courses with thematic modules that highlight the interconnectedness of various ancient cultures and their influence on later societies. Students have the opportunity to develop skills in critical thinking, textual analysis, and historical research. The program emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights from archaeology, philology, history, and cultural studies to offer a well-rounded understanding of the ancient world.

Leiden University’s Classics and Ancient Civilisations program also includes practical training such as archaeological fieldwork, participating in excavations, and conservation projects. Students can engage with collections at the nearby National Museum of Antiquities and utilize the university’s extensive resources in classical studies. International exchange programs and internships are encouraged, offering students exposure to global perspectives on historical and archaeological research.

Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers in academia, education, museum and heritage management, archaeology, cultural policy, and publishing. The program aims to cultivate a deep appreciation of the ancient world’s relevance today, fostering skills that are applicable in various cultural, educational, and research-oriented careers. The faculty at Leiden University is renowned for its research in the fields of Classics and Ancient Civilisations, providing students with access to expert knowledge and contemporary research developments.

Overall, the Classics and Ancient Civilisations program at Leiden University combines rigorous academic coursework, practical experiences, and research opportunities to prepare students for advanced study and diverse careers related to the ancient Mediterranean world.