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Masters Degree in Classics
Find postgraduate programs in CLASSICSClassics is the study of the classical world, with emphasis on the study of the Classical Greek and Latin languages. To study Classics is to immerse oneself in the worlds of Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome, two civilisations that dominated the world for centuries.
Graeco-Roman influence can still be found in contemporary language, culture and societal organisation. Therefore, a postgraduate degree in Classics imparts both an insight on a fascinating era and a unique perspective on the modern world.
Masters Degrees in Classics aim to equip those with a first degree in classics or a related subject to be equipped with the more technical aspects of the study of the classical world. Most students who choose to study on this postgraduate program find it intellectually stimulating and enjoy the diverse choice of careers that such a program brings.
Masters in Classics – the lowdown
A Masters Degree in Classics is usually studied over one year full time or two years part time. There are few options to study classics by distance learning, most are based in their respective institution. Studying in an institution rather than by distance learning ensures that there is much academic discussion and debate with fellow students.
Some institutions offer a flexible option to complete single modules on an ad hoc basis. This enables you to study around your other commitments, and take a few years to complete your chosen degree, however, usually you will need to complete the program within six years of starting.
With a Masters in Classics, the breadth of study incorporates many different subjects including art, science, religion, history and philosophy. As a result, students will be required to employ a wide variety of different techniques in their studies.
Classics study modules
There are both compulsory and optional modules during the degree program. Most classics programs start with an introduction to studying classics at a higher level, and also have a compulsory module on research methods that you will need during the program. With most masters degrees, the program will conclude with a thesis on a research topic of your choice.
Many institutions have a diverse range of optional modules for you to choose from, allowing you to pursue your own specialist area of interest during the program. There will be an opportunity to choose an area of interest to pursue, either through the optional taught modules or by the completion of a thesis. There is massive diversity in the subject to allow you to pursue your own interest, for example, you may wish to study Romans in Britain, before moving on to an optional module studying Ancient Cyprus – the possibilities really are endless. Such a diverse, but fascinating subject really allows the student to demonstrate intellectual flair and ability.
Entrance requirements
Most Masters Degrees in Classics – and in fact any of the humanities – require the completion of an upper second class honours degree, or equivalent in a subject that is related to Classics, like Ancient History.
If English is not your first language, then you will usually need to provide evidence of English competence to the institution that you are applying to study at – such as IELTS and TOEFL. Further details regarding this can be found on the admissions pages of your chosen institution.
Classics student case study
Elizabeth is studying her masters degree at King’s College London. She explains, "I studied Ancient History at undergraduate level. During my undergraduate degree I realised that I wanted to pursue an academic career, and I felt ready to embark on this by starting to study on a masters program at a reasonably early age of 22.
I needed to choose a masters program that would provide me with an excellent basis for doctoral level study, as well allow me to pursue more specialist interests that I was not able to do during my undergraduate degree. Therefore, completing a Masters Degree in Classics was the answer.
The program allowed me to learn more about the technical aspects of the subject, and develop my knowledge of the Ancient Greek and Latin languages. This was particularly attractive on a personal level as although I have always lived in Britain I am of Greek Cypriot descent.
I have found the masters program to be stimulating, challenging and exciting. I was lucky enough to study in the bustling and multicultural city of London, at King's College London. There the course is structured in an intercollegiate way, meaning that you have the added bonus of receiving teaching and mixing with students at other colleges that make up the University of London.”
Reasons to study a Masters in Classics
There are many reasons why you may want to study a Masters in Classics. The reason why many people do so is as diverse as the subject itself. The classical world was the ancient basis for the world we know today, full of richness and diversity.
Many people who study a Masters in Classics want to pursue an academic career, and use it is as an excellent grounding to higher level doctoral study. Others simply wish to do it for self-achievement and enjoy the academic debate and discussion that studying such a program brings. Others may study for career acceleration or progression as you will develop many transferable skills that are attractive to potential employers.
Students who complete a Masters Degree in Classics go on to varied and diverse careers, including academics, lecturers and school teachers. Or go on to work in complex and challenging roles in public sector organisations, where their role requires a high level of analytical thinking.
Whatever your reasons for wanting to pursue this degree program, you will be sure to find it exciting, stimulating and discover new interests and passions. During the course you will also be sure to find like-minded people which will provide an excellent opportunity for academic debate and discussion. The program will provide an excellent grounding for whatever higher level opportunity that you will choose to pursue on graduation.
Find postgraduate programs in CLASSICS
