Classics

Overview

Classics at Cambridge

The Faculty of Classics is one of the most dynamic of its kind, with an exceptional reputation for teaching and research.

Our course encompasses the history, culture, archaeology, art, philosophy and linguistics of classical antiquity and the study of original texts and artefacts. You can either specialise in a particular field or retain the breadth with which the course starts.

Facilities and resources

The Faculty's facilities include a well-stocked library and our own Museum of Classical Archaeology. In addition, you have access to the holdings of the Fitzwilliam Museum, where some classes take place.

There's a thriving student society and the renowned Cambridge Greek Play, produced in the original language, is regularly staged by a professional director. We also offer various undergraduate prizes, bursaries and travel grants.

The courses

The three-year course is usually for students with A Level/IB Higher Level Latin (regardless of whether they have Greek). We offer an Intensive Greek Programme for those with little/no Greek.

The four-year course is for those without Latin, and offers a preliminary year which focuses on Latin language and Roman culture. Years 2, 3 and 4 are identical to the three years of the three-year degree.

If you have A Level/IB Higher Level Greek but not Latin, you may be advised to take the four-year degree (depending on individual circumstances, please contact the Faculty or a College admissions office for guidance).

Changing course

Although it's possible to change course after Part I, in practice most of our students appreciate the breadth of the subjects offered and the opportunity to define their own course of study.

Likewise, the broad scope of papers available makes Classics Part II an attractive option after Part I of another course (certain combinations of Part II papers may be taken without knowledge of Greek and Latin).

Several other options are available, including combining Classical Greek or Classical Latin with a modern language (see Modern and Medieval Languages).

Careers

Employers have a high opinion of Classicists as potential employees because they're hard-working, articulate, accurate and efficient, take new tasks in their stride and can master situations intelligently.

Some graduates take advantage of the specialist opportunities open to them and do research and teaching in schools and universities, or work in archives, libraries and museums. But most go into other careers - in law, the media, accountancy, the Civil Service, industry and business.