Classics and Ancient Civilizations

The Bachelor's degree in Classics and Ancient Civilizations at the University of Groningen offers students a comprehensive introduction to the history, culture, language, and literature of the ancient Mediterranean world. This program is designed for students who are passionate about exploring the origins of Western civilization and gaining a deep understanding of the societies that shaped our modern world. Throughout the program, students will engage with a wide range of topics, including ancient Greek and Roman history, mythology, philosophy, art, and archaeology. The curriculum combines language study—covering Latin and Greek—with courses in history, cultural studies, and archaeological methods, providing students with the skills necessary to analyze and interpret ancient sources and material remains.

Students will have the opportunity to develop their language proficiency, enabling them to read original texts in their original languages and conduct independent research. The program emphasizes critical thinking, historical analysis, and cultural awareness, preparing graduates for careers in academia, archaeology, museum work, cultural heritage management, or further study in related fields. Practical skills such as excavation techniques, epigraphy, and digital humanities are integrated into the curriculum to enhance students’ employability and research capabilities.

The academic staff are renowned for their expertise in the fields of classical studies, ancient history, and archaeology, ensuring a rich and engaging learning environment. Students are encouraged to participate in fieldwork, internships, and study abroad programs, which enhance their practical experience and global perspective. The program is characterized by its interactive teaching methods, including seminars, workshops, and small group discussions that foster active learning and close contact with faculty.

Studying Classics and Ancient Civilizations at Groningen offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the fascinating world of antiquity, understand its legacy, and develop skills that are valuable in a wide range of professional contexts. Graduates leave the program with a solid foundation in classical languages, history, and culture, equipped to pursue further specialization or to apply their analytical skills in various careers. The program prepares students not only to appreciate the richness of ancient civilizations but also to transfer critical insights into contemporary society, making it a compelling choice for those interested in the roots of Western culture and the enduring influence of the ancient world.

The Bachelor's degree programme in Classics and Ancient Civilizations at the University of Groningen offers students a comprehensive introduction to the ancient worlds of Greece and Rome, as well as their influence on modern society. Throughout the programme, students explore a diverse range of topics, including ancient history, philosophy, literature, archaeology, and art. The curriculum is designed to develop both language proficiency in Latin and Greek, and critical analytical skills necessary for interpreting ancient texts, artifacts, and archaeological sites.

In the first year, students lay a solid foundation with courses in classical languages, introduction to classical civilization, and methodology. This includes learning Latin and Greek, which are essential for understanding original sources. The coursework also covers ancient history and culture, equipping students with a broad overview of the classical period. Emphasis is placed on developing research skills and understanding the historical context of classical societies.

During the second year, students delve deeper into specialized topics such as classical mythology, archaeology, and philosophy. They have opportunities to participate in archaeological fieldwork and gain practical experience through seminars and research projects. The programme encourages an interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights from history, linguistics, anthropology, and art history.

The third year offers students the chance to undertake a minor or specialise in a particular area of interest, such as Roman archaeology, Greek literature, or classical reception studies. A key component of the final year is the bachelor's thesis, where students conduct independent research under supervision, contributing original insights to their field of study.

Throughout the programme, students benefit from the university's excellent facilities, including access to library resources, archaeological collections, and research seminars. The course structure promotes critical thinking, academic writing, and effective communication skills, preparing graduates for careers in education, research, museums, cultural heritage, and more.

Overall, the Classics and Ancient Civilizations bachelor's programme at the University of Groningen aims to deepen students' understanding of the ancient world, develop their linguistic and analytical abilities, and foster a lifelong appreciation of classical heritage and its relevance to contemporary society.

Admission requirements

Minimum language requirements of TOEFL iBT 86 (with a minimum of 20 on all items), or IELTS 6.5 (with a minimum of 6 on all items). ERK level B2 (preferably C1).

Other requirements

1. taaltoets cijfer Minimum language requirements of TOEFL iBT 86 (with a minimum of 20 on all items), or IELTS 6.5 (with a minimum of 6 on all items). ERK level B2 (preferably C1).

The University of Groningen offers a range of financing options for students enrolled in the Classics and Ancient Civilizations programme. Tuition fees vary depending on the student's nationality; for Dutch and EU/EEA students, the annual tuition fee is approximately €2,200, while for non-EU/EEA students, it is around €9,000. International students are encouraged to explore various scholarship opportunities to help offset these costs. The university provides several scholarships specifically aimed at international students, including the Holland Scholarship and the Groningen International Student Scholarship, which offer partial funding based on academic merit and financial need. Additionally, students from the Netherlands can often access government financial aid programs, student loans, and grants such as the Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs (DUO) loan scheme.

Apart from scholarships and government support, students are advised to seek external funding sources including private foundations, cultural exchange programs, and European Union funding options like Erasmus+ mobility grants, which support study-abroad experiences and internships. The university’s financial services office offers detailed guidance on applying for financial aid and managing student expenses. Students are also encouraged to work part-time, either on or off-campus, subject to visa regulations for international students, to help cover living expenses. Living costs in Groningen, including accommodation, food, transportation, and study materials, average around €1,000 to €1,200 per month, which students need to plan for accordingly. The university's Career Services can assist students in finding part-time employment opportunities relevant to their studies. Overall, financing a Classics and Ancient Civilizations degree at the University of Groningen involves a combination of tuition fees, scholarships, government support, part-time employment, and personal savings. The university promotes transparent financial planning and offers comprehensive advice to ensure students can focus on their academic pursuits without undue financial stress.

The Bachelor's program in Classics and Ancient Civilizations at the University of Groningen provides a comprehensive introduction to the languages, history, culture, and society of the ancient Mediterranean and surrounding regions. The program aims to develop students' understanding of ancient civilizations, including ancient Greece, Rome, Egypt, and the Near East, and to foster critical thinking about how these societies have influenced the modern world. Throughout the course of the program, students acquire skills in ancient languages such as Latin and Greek, along with training in archaeological methods, textual analysis, and cultural history. The curriculum balances linguistic proficiency with cultural and historical understanding, offering courses in classical literature, philosophy, religion, art, and archaeology.

Students have the opportunity to specialize in particular areas of interest, such as classical literature, ancient history, or archaeology. The program emphasizes active research and encourages students to develop their own analytical and interpretative skills by engaging with original ancient texts, artifacts, and archaeological findings. Additionally, the program includes practical components such as fieldwork, internships, and visits to archaeological sites, which enhance students' understanding of the material culture and historical context of ancient civilizations.

Internationally oriented, the program at the University of Groningen often collaborates with other institutions and invites guest lecturers from around the world. Graduates of the program are well-equipped for careers in archaeology, museum management, cultural heritage, education, and research. The university's strong research focus and extensive digital resources provide students with a solid foundation for postgraduate study or professional development in fields related to classical studies and ancient civilizations. Overall, the program aims to foster a deep appreciation of ancient cultures, critical analytical skills, and a global perspective on historical development.