Classics and Ancient Civilizations

The Bachelor's programme in Classics and Ancient Civilizations at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers a comprehensive introduction to the study of the ancient Mediterranean world, encompassing the cultures of Greece, Rome, Egypt, and the broader classical civilizations. This interdisciplinary degree provides students with a thorough understanding of ancient history, literature, philosophy, art, and archaeology, enabling them to analyze and interpret the remnants of these influential societies. Throughout the programme, students develop critical thinking, research, and analytical skills by engaging with original texts, artifacts, and archaeological data. The curriculum combines language studies—including Latin and Greek—with courses in ancient history, classical culture, and civilization studies, fostering a deep appreciation of the historical contexts and cultural achievements of antiquity. Students also learn to apply modern theoretical frameworks to the study of ancient civilizations, enhancing their ability to critically assess sources and scholarly debates. The programme emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing graduates for diverse careers in academia, museums, cultural heritage management, education, and related fields. With guidance from experienced faculty members who are experts in their fields, students participate in seminars, workshops, and practical assignments designed to deepen their understanding of the ancient world. The programme encourages active participation in research projects and offers opportunities for internships, enabling students to gain hands-on experience in archaeological practices, museum work, or research institutions. Students will also have the chance to study abroad through exchange programs, broadening their international perspective and cultural awareness. Graduates of this programme will emerge with a solid foundation of knowledge about the ancient civilizations that have shaped contemporary Western culture, as well as the analytical skills needed for further academic pursuits or a professional career in cultural sectors. Ultimately, the Bachelor’s in Classics and Ancient Civilizations aims to inspire a passion for the study of antiquity and to equip students with the skills to critically engage with the past and its enduring legacy.

The Master's programme in Classics and Ancient Civilizations at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers an in-depth exploration of the ancient world through a multidisciplinary approach, combining history, language, literature, archaeology, and cultural studies. This programme is designed for students who are passionate about understanding the ancient civilizations that have shaped the foundations of Western culture. Throughout the programme, students examine various aspects of classical societies, including politics, religion, daily life, and artistic achievements, with a focus on Greece and Rome, as well as their interactions with other ancient civilizations.

The curriculum provides a balanced mix of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Students begin with core courses that introduce key concepts in classical studies, Latin and Greek languages, and research methods. As they progress, they have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as ancient history, archaeology, classical literature, or cultural studies. The programme emphasizes critical analysis and interpretation of primary sources, enabling students to develop their own research projects.

A distinctive feature of the programme is its integration of archaeological fieldwork and museum studies, which offer hands-on experience and deepen understanding of material culture. Students may participate in excavations or internships at museums and archaeological sites, gaining valuable practical skills. The programme also encourages an international outlook, with courses that include comparative studies of ancient civilizations and contemporary relevance.

Graduates of the programme are well-equipped for careers in academia, cultural heritage management, museum curatorship, archaeological consultancy, and other fields related to the study and preservation of ancient civilizations. The comprehensive training in research, analysis, and interpretation ensures that students are prepared to contribute meaningfully to scholarship and society. The Master's in Classics and Ancient Civilizations at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam provides a challenging and enriching environment for students dedicated to exploring the depths of antiquity and its enduring legacy.

Admission requirements

Your average mark for a package of relevant subjects, as determined by the Board of Examiners, was 8 or higher

Other requirements

1. gemiddeld cijfer Your average mark for a package of relevant subjects, as determined by the Board of Examiners, was 8 or higher
2. cijferlijst You received a mark of 8 or more for your Bachelor's thesis
3. schriftelijk verzoek -a letter of application *your CV *a research proposal For more information about admission and application please go to: http://www.vu.nl/en/programmes/international-masters/programmes/c-d/classics-and-ancient-civilizations-research/admission-requirements-and-application/index.asp
4. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) For more information about admission and application please go to our website: http://www.vu.nl/en/programmes/international-masters/programmes/c-d/classics-and-ancient-civilizations-research/admission-requirements-and-application/index.asp

The Bachelor's degree programme in Classics and Ancient Civilizations at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers a range of financing options for prospective students. Tuition fees for Dutch and EU/EEA students are determined annually and are generally fixed at a specific rate, which is published on the university's official website. For non-EU students, the tuition fee is typically higher and also specified annually. In addition to tuition fees, students should consider living expenses, which include accommodation, food, transportation, and study materials. The university provides estimates for these costs to help students budget effectively.

Students enrolled in the programme may be eligible for various financial aids, scholarships, and grants. National students can apply for Dutch student loans and grants provided through the Dutch government, such as the Study Financing system, which includes the OV-chipkaart subsidy, tuition fee loan, and supplementary grants based on financial need. International students, depending on their country of residence, may need to explore scholarships provided by the Dutch government or the European Union, as well as university-specific scholarships at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam.

The university participates in various international scholarship programmes, including the Holland Scholarship and Erasmus+ funding, which support students wishing to study abroad or participate in exchange programmes. Moreover, students often seek external funding sources such as private foundations, family support, or part-time work opportunities in Amsterdam, which is a vibrant city with numerous employment options suitable for students.

Internship opportunities embedded within the programme may sometimes offer stipends or financial compensation, aiding students financially during their studies. The university also provides financial guidance through its student services, helping students understand the application processes for loans and scholarships, and advising on financial planning to ensure that students can sustain their studies comfortably.

In summary, financing studies at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam for Classics and Ancient Civilizations includes a combination of tuition fees, living costs, and potential financial aid. The university’s support systems and external scholarship opportunities are designed to make education accessible for students from diverse financial backgrounds. Prospective students are encouraged to review the latest official information on the university's website and consult with the student services office to explore all available funding options and plan their finances accordingly.

The Bachelor's program in Classics and Ancient Civilizations at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers students an opportunity to explore the rich history, literature, languages, and cultures of the ancient Mediterranean world, including Greek and Roman civilizations. The program is designed to provide a thorough understanding of classical languages such as Latin and Ancient Greek, along with their literary, historical, and archaeological contexts. Students gain skills in critical analysis, research methodologies, and linguistic proficiency, which are essential for understanding the foundational aspects of Western civilization.

Throughout the course of the degree, students engage with a wide range of topics including ancient mythology, philosophy, politics, art, and socio-cultural developments. The program emphasizes the importance of understanding ancient texts both in their original languages and through various interpretative lenses, fostering a deep appreciation of the intellectual and cultural achievements of antiquity. The curriculum also integrates archaeological studies, offering insights into ancient material culture through visits, project work, and possibly fieldwork.

The program combines theoretical coursework with practical skills, encouraging students to develop their analytical and academic writing abilities. They are trained to interpret classical sources, contextualize historical events, and critically examine cultural influences from antiquity to modern times. As part of their studies, students can participate in excursions and collaborative projects, which enhance their experiential learning and provide a practical understanding of classical archaeology and history.

Career prospects for graduates include opportunities in academia, museum work, cultural heritage management, publishing, and education. The program's interdisciplinary nature, combining languages, history, archaeology, and culture, prepares students for diverse roles that require analytical thinking and cross-cultural understanding. The faculty members involved are experienced scholars who support students through research seminars, internships, and networking events, aiming to produce well-rounded graduates capable of contributing to the preservation and interpretation of ancient civilizations.

Admission requirements typically include a relevant pre-university education, with an emphasis on proficiency in English and sometimes classical languages. The program is suitable for students with a passion for history, languages, and archaeology, who are eager to explore the roots of Western heritage and engage critically with ancient texts and artifacts. Overall, the Classics and Ancient Civilizations Bachelor's program at VU Amsterdam offers an in-depth academic journey into the ancient world, fostering skills that are valuable across numerous disciplines and career paths.