Philosophy and Greek

The Philosophy and Greek program at University College London offers students an exceptional opportunity to explore the fundamental questions of human existence, knowledge, ethics, and reality, alongside the study of ancient Greek language, literature, and culture. This interdisciplinary course is designed to cultivate critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of the philosophical traditions that have shaped Western thought. Students engage with key philosophical texts from antiquity to the modern era, examining ideas from figures such as Plato, Aristotle, and their influence on contemporary philosophy. Concurrently, they develop proficiency in ancient Greek, enabling them to read and interpret original texts in their original language, which provides a richer, more nuanced understanding of classical philosophers’ works. The program emphasizes a comprehensive curriculum that integrates philosophical inquiry with classical linguistic training, fostering an environment where students can critically analyze philosophical arguments while gaining the linguistic skills needed to access primary sources.

Throughout the course, students participate in stimulating seminars, lectures, and independent research projects, allowing for a personalized academic experience tailored to individual interests within philosophy and classics. The program is suitable for those passionate about understanding the origins of Western intellectual tradition, exploring ethical dilemmas, metaphysics, epistemology, and political philosophy, as well as those interested in classical Greek history, mythology, and literature. Students will also benefit from UCL’s vibrant academic community, including access to world-class libraries, research centers, and engaging extracurricular activities. The combination of philosophical investigation and classical language study equips graduates with versatile skills applicable to careers in academia, education, law, public policy, and cultural heritage sectors. This degree provides a profound foundation for anyone eager to delve into the philosophical roots of Western civilization and master the ancient Greek language, unlocking the rich intellectual heritage of the classical world.

In each year of your degree you will take a number of individual modules, normally valued at 0.5 or 1.0 credits, adding up to a total of 4.0 credits for the year. Modules are assessed in the academic year in which they are taken. The balance of compulsory and optional modules varies from programme to programme and year to year. A 1.0 credit is considered equivalent to 15 credits in the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).

The first year includes several introductory lecture courses, which provide a foundation for later studies. The programme covers political philosophy, examining questions about the state, liberty and laws; moral philosophy, questioning distinctions of right and wrong, and our motivation for choosing between the two; epistemology which investigates the nature of knowledge and belief; metaphysics, which attempts to grasp the nature of things; and logic, which imparts principles of sound reasoning.

You will study Philosophy and Greek on an equal basis. Optional modules in Latin are also offered.

A levels

Grades

AAA

Subjects

No specific subjects.

GCSEs

English Language at grade B, plus Mathematics at grade C; Ancient Greek is also preferred. For UK-based students, a grade C or equivalent in a foreign language (other than Ancient Greek, Biblical Hebrew or Latin) is required. UCL provides opportunities to meet the foreign language requirement following enrolment, further details at: www.ucl.ac.uk/ug-reqs

IB Diploma

Points

38

Subjects

A total of 18 points in three higher level subjects, with no score below 5.

The Philosophy and Greek programme at University College London offers a comprehensive educational experience supported by various funding options. Students enrolled in this interdisciplinary course have access to multiple financial resources to facilitate their studies. UCL provides scholarships and bursaries specifically aimed at supporting students in the humanities, which include degree programmes like Philosophy and Greek. These may encompass merit-based scholarships, need-based bursaries, and international student awards, designed to reduce financial barriers and enable students to focus on their academic pursuits.

In addition to university-funded support, students can explore external funding opportunities such as government grants, funding from private foundations, and international organizations that support students studying classical or philosophical disciplines. UCL's financial aid office offers guidance on applying for these awards and helps students navigate the application process to maximize their chances of receiving funding.

Students are encouraged to consider part-time work opportunities both on and off-campus, which can supplement their income during their studies. UCL's career services provide resources and advice on internships, part-time jobs, and volunteering activities relevant to the humanities, helping students develop professional skills while supporting their financial needs.

The university also offers loan schemes available to domestic students, including tuition fee-loans and maintenance loans, which facilitate the opportunity to study without immediate financial pressure. International students may have access to specific scholarships, but often rely more heavily on external funding sources or personal sponsorships.

Overall, the Financing Studies component of the Philosophy and Greek programme emphasizes a supportive financial environment, ensuring students can pursue their academic goals with manageable financial commitments. The university's dedicated financial aid advisors work closely with students to identify suitable funding options, prepare necessary documentation, and plan their finances effectively throughout their studies.

The Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Greek at University College London offers students a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum designed to explore the foundational questions of human existence, knowledge, ethics, and the nature of reality through the disciplines of philosophy and ancient Greek language and culture. This interdisciplinary programme provides a unique opportunity to engage with classical texts and philosophical ideas that have shaped Western thought, fostering critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of the historical context of philosophical development. Students undertake a combination of modules that cover ancient Greek philosophy, including works by Plato and Aristotle, alongside modern philosophical debates, ensuring a well-rounded exposure to both historical and contemporary issues. The programme emphasizes the development of linguistic proficiency in Greek, enabling students to read original texts and better appreciate the nuances of ancient philosophical arguments. UCL's department of Philosophy is renowned for its research excellence and vibrant academic community, which provides numerous opportunities for intellectual engagement through lectures, seminars, and research projects. Students are encouraged to participate in discussions, present their ideas, and undertake independent research, cultivating skills essential for academic, professional, and personal growth. The programme also offers flexibility, allowing students to tailor their study to their interests by choosing from a range of elective modules that complement the core curriculum. Graduates of this programme are well-prepared for careers in academia, education, research, publishing, or any field requiring strong analytical and communicative abilities. The university's central London location also facilitates access to cultural institutions, archives, and libraries that support classical and philosophical studies. Overall, the Philosophy and Greek programme aims to deepen students’ understanding of key philosophical concepts and classical Greek heritage while equipping them with skills that are highly valued across diverse professional domains.