Late Antique and Byzantine Studies

This MA offers students the opportunity to specialise in an exciting and multi-faceted field of study that covers the history and culture of the Mediterranean world during the long millennium from the foundation of Constantinople (modern Istanbul) in 324 to the fall of the Byzantine empire in 1453.

Students gain a thorough grounding in key aspects of and approaches to late antique and Byzantine studies. They acquire necessary research skills (ancient languages, palaeography, epigraphy, papyrology) and develop their critical and conceptual understanding of the field through a variety of disciplines (history, literature, material culture, philosophy).

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of one core language or research skills module (40 credits), optional modules (80 credits), and a research disssertation (60 credits).

Core modules

Either one language acquisition module, or a research skills module (40 credits). These include:

• Beginners Ancient Greek for Research
• Intermediate Ancient Greek for Research
• Beginners Latin for Research
• Intermediate Latin
• Sources and Methods in Ancient History
• Greek Epigraphy
• Greek Papyrology
• Latin Epigraphy
• Medieval Latin Literature

Optional modules

Options may include the following:

• Byzantium and the First Crusade
• Byzantium and the Fourth Crusade
• Byzantium & the West, A. D. 800-1000
• Cities of God: making the Late Antique City
• Codes and Practice: The World of Roman Law
• Cyprus from Late Antiquity to the Renaissance
• The Empire of Constantinople
• Homer's Legacy
• Identity and Power in Medieval Europe, AD 500-1300
• The Late Roman and Early Byzantine City
• Living in Byzantium: Material Culture and Built Environment
• The Making of the Christian Empire, AD 284-425
• Medieval Papacy
• Philosophy under the Roman Empire
• The Reign of Constantine I

Dissertation/report

All students attend the Introduction to Byzantium seminar, leading to an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of up to 12,000 words.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of seminars, lectures, workshops and library visits. Assessment is through unseen examinations, coursework essays and the dissertation.

A minimum of an upper second-class Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard. A basic knowledge of a relevant ancient or medieval language is a prerequisite.

Jean Orr Scholarship

Value:

£7,000 (1 year)

Eligibility:

UK, EU, Overseas students

Criteria:

Based on academic merit

Wellcome Trust Scholarship

Eligibility:

UK, EU, Overseas students

Criteria:

Based on academic merit

The MSc in Late Antique and Byzantine Studies at University College London offers students an in-depth exploration of the history, culture, and archaeology of the Late Antique and Byzantine periods. This interdisciplinary programme combines insights from history, art history, archaeology, and philology, providing a comprehensive understanding of the transformation of the Roman Empire into the medieval period. The curriculum includes modules covering the political, religious, and cultural developments from the 3rd to the 15th century, focusing on key themes such as imperial power, religious change, Byzantine art and architecture, and the social history of the period. Students will engage with primary sources including manuscripts, inscriptions, and archaeological finds, fostering critical analysis and research skills necessary for doctoral study or careers in museums, cultural heritage, or related fields. The programme is suitable for students with a background in history, classics, archaeology, or related disciplines who seek to deepen their knowledge of this complex and dynamic period. The teaching is delivered by experts in the field, with access to UCL's extensive resources, including special collections and archaeological archives. The programme also offers opportunities for fieldwork, seminars, and conferences, encouraging active engagement and networking within the academic community. Graduates of this programme will be well-equipped to pursue doctoral research or careers in academia, cultural management, or international organizations involved in heritage and historical projects. The university’s central London location provides students with access to numerous museums, libraries, and archaeological sites relevant to their studies. Overall, the MSc in Late Antique and Byzantine Studies aims to produce knowledgeable and skilled scholars who can contribute significantly to the understanding of this historically pivotal period.