Ancient History

Ancient History at Leiden University offers an in-depth exploration of the civilizations of the ancient world, spanning from the earliest civilizations in Mesopotamia and Egypt to the classical societies of Greece and Rome. This program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the cultural, political, social, and economic developments that shaped the foundations of Western civilization. Through a combination of historical analysis, archaeological evidence, and textual studies, students will develop critical insights into the complexities and diversity of ancient societies.

The curriculum includes courses in ancient history, classical archaeology, and languages such as Latin and Greek, enabling students to engage directly with primary sources. Emphasis is placed on analytical skills, historical methodology, and the interpretation of material culture. Students have the opportunity to specialize in specific regions or themes, such as ancient Mediterranean, Near Eastern civilizations, or the origins of European societies, tailoring their studies to their interests.

Leiden University's program is distinguished by its strong research focus and its unique collections of archaeological artifacts and manuscripts, which enhance classroom learning and research activities. The program prepares students for diverse career paths, including archaeology, museum work, academia, education, heritage management, and cultural consultancy. With a globally recognized faculty comprising experienced historians and archaeologists, students receive personalized guidance and mentorship throughout their educational journey.

In addition, students can participate in excavations and fieldwork projects, gaining practical experience in archaeological methods and preservation techniques. The program also emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and effective communication, equipping graduates with skills valuable in various professional contexts. Graduates of Leiden's Ancient History program are well-equipped to contribute to ongoing research, public history projects, and policy development related to cultural heritage. Overall, this program offers a rigorous and enriching pathway into understanding the ancient world's enduring influence on contemporary society.

The Bachelor's degree programme in Ancient History at Leiden University offers students an in-depth exploration of the history, culture, and societies of the ancient world. The programme provides a comprehensive overview of civilizations such as Greece and Rome, as well as other significant ancient cultures across the Mediterranean and beyond. Throughout the programme, students engage with primary sources, archaeological findings, and contemporary interpretations to develop a thorough understanding of the historical developments from prehistoric times through late antiquity.

The curriculum is designed to build a solid foundation in historical methods, source analysis, and critical thinking. Core courses cover topics including ancient political systems, social structures, religion, philosophy, literature, and art. Students also gain insight into the ancient economy, daily life, and long-term legacies that have shaped modern societies. Special attention is given to the linguistic aspects of ancient civilizations, including Latin and Greek, fostering language skills necessary for primary source analysis.

In addition to theory and history, the programme emphasizes practical skills such as archaeological methods, interpretation of ancient inscriptions, and modern historiography. Interdisciplinary approaches are encouraged, integrating archaeology, philology, and literary studies to provide a multidimensional perspective on ancient history. Students have the opportunity to participate in archaeological fieldwork and internships, which deepen their understanding of excavation and analysis techniques.

Leiden University’s renowned faculty, comprising leading experts in ancient history and related fields, guides students through a stimulating academic environment. The programme also offers various elective courses, seminars, and research projects, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests, whether focusing on a specific geographical region, chronological period, or thematic topic.

The programme aims to develop analytical, research, and communication skills, preparing graduates for careers in academia, education, museums, cultural heritage management, or related sectors. With its international orientation and emphasis on primary sources and archaeological evidence, the Ancient History programme at Leiden University provides a strong foundation for understanding the ancient world’s enduring influence on contemporary society.

Admission requirements

See website www.unileidenmasters.nl

Other requirements

1. minimum kennis (ISPAC: overige vereisten) Goede leesvaardigheid van het Duits en Frans heeft de voorkeur.
2. minimum kennis (ISPAC: overige vereisten) See website www.unileidenmasters.nl
3. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) Bachelorgraad of zijn equivalent, met een relevante specialisatie en uitstekende cijfers.
4. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) A BA degree or its equivalent, with a relevant specialisation and excellent grades.

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.

Enroll in the course

The financing of the Ancient History program at Leiden University primarily depends on various funding sources made available to both domestic and international students. Dutch students generally have access to the Dutch government’s student finance system, which provides grants and loans through the Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs (DUO). This financial support includes loan options that students can repay after graduation, as well as supplementary grants for eligible students based on financial need. Furthermore, the Dutch government offers bursaries and scholarships targeting exceptional students or those participating in specific projects, although these are often limited in number and require separate application processes.

International students enrolled in the program can explore various funding avenues. Leiden University offers several scholarship options, such as the Holland Scholarship and the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship, which provide financial support to talented students from abroad. These scholarships can cover partial or full tuition fees and, in some cases, provide stipends for living expenses. Additionally, students are encouraged to seek external funding sources, including government grants, private foundations, and international scholarship programs relevant to their home country or region.

Part-time employment opportunities are available for students during their studies, allowing them to finance their education indirectly through part-time jobs on or near campus, subject to visa and work regulation restrictions for international students. Leiden University also has partnerships with various organizations that offer internships and work placements, which can contribute to students' financial stability while gaining practical experience.

Overall, the financing of the Ancient History program at Leiden University is designed to be multifaceted, combining support from government funding, university scholarships, external grants, and personal or family resources. The university’s financial aid advisors assist students in identifying suitable funding options and navigating the application processes. Prospective students are advised to carefully review the eligibility criteria and deadlines for all available financial aid options well before the start of their studies to ensure they can secure the necessary funding to successfully complete their education.

Ancient History at Leiden University offers students a comprehensive and in-depth study of the history, culture, and civilizations of the ancient Mediterranean and Near Eastern worlds. The program covers a wide range of topics, including the development of early societies, political systems, social structures, religious beliefs, literary traditions, and artistic achievements of ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Greece, Rome, and the Near East. Students engaged in this program have the opportunity to analyze archaeological findings, ancient manuscripts, and artifacts, fostering a deep understanding of the historical contexts and cultural developments of antiquity. The curriculum combines theoretical seminars with practical skills in textual and material analysis, encouraging critical thinking and interpretative skills essential for careers in academia, museums, cultural heritage management, and related fields.

Leiden University’s Department of History is renowned for its expertise in classical and ancient history, providing access to skilled scholars, extensive library resources, and unique archaeological collections. The program emphasizes language proficiency in classical languages such as Greek and Latin, enabling students to read primary sources in their original languages. It prepares students for further research or professional activities by developing their analytical and research skills through coursework, projects, and possible internships. The program also encourages interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from archaeology, anthropology, philology, and art history to provide a holistic understanding of ancient cultures and their enduring influence on modern societies.

Students studying Ancient History at Leiden benefit from the university’s strong network of research institutes and partnerships with museums and archaeological organizations. The program typically lasts three years (Bachelor’s) or one to two years (Master’s), depending on the degree level, and offers specializations within the field, such as classical studies, Near Eastern studies, or archaeological methodology. Graduates of the program develop a broad skill set suitable for international careers in academia, cultural diplomacy, education, publishing, or heritage management. Leiden’s rich academic environment, combined with its focus on critical analysis and original research, makes it an excellent choice for students passionate about understanding the ancient world and its relevance today.