Classics

What would I study and how do courses differ?

Generally speaking, a BA in Classics will take three years or four, if you have not studied Latin before. St Andrews offer a four-year MA course for all students. Cambridge offers a three-year course with an ‘intensive Greek’ stream to get you up to speed on Classical Greek. You can also study a degree which combines either Greek or Latin with a modern language on the Modern and Medieval Languages Course. King’s offers similar courses and Durham has three Single Honours degrees: Ancient History, Classical Past and Classics. It also offers Joint Honours in Ancient History and Archaeology, and Ancient, Medieval and Modern History. The Oxford course is divided into the two sub-faculties of Classical Languages and Literature, and Ancient History and Classical Archaeology.

What are typical entry requirements?

Previous study in Greek or Latin will obviously help, although it is not compulsory at most universities. For example, Oxford has two pathways for Classics students: one for those with a prior knowledge of the language and one for those without. Classics is offered at more traditional universities and grade requirements are as follows: Cambridge A*AA, Oxford and Durham AAA, St Andrews ask for AAB. In addition to interview, Oxford sets an aptitude test.

Cambridge colleges have different entry requirements with most, but not all colleges, setting a written test.

Are there any essential or recommended A Levels?

Any subject which calls for the capacities needed in a Classics degree, such as writing essays, criticising literature, learning languages, and handling historical evidence are useful preparation. Latin, English, History, Philosophy and Modern Languages are ideal. Nonetheless, depending on which course you choose, Latin is not compulsory. Universities stress that what matters is that you show a real desire to study the subject (whether it be reading beyond your set texts in the original language or in translation, or volunteering on a local archaeological dig!).

Which are the best universities for Classics?

Classics at the more traditional universities Cambridge, Oxford, and Durham are particularly competitive. However, there are very good degree courses offered at UCL, Warwick, St Andrews, Exeter and Bristol.

Is there any special advice for Oxbridge applicants?

See above. Oxford and most Cambridge Colleges set a written test as part of the interview process.

What is important for my personal statement or interview?

Admissions tutors will need evidence of a genuine interest in Classics, Ancient History and/or Ancient Civilisation, and one which has not just started a few weeks before the writing of your personal statement. Your reading around the subject(s) and active involvement in, for example, an archaeological dig or a trip to a site of ancient historical interest and your reflections on your experiences, should form an important part of your personal statement. Show an intelligent interest in the literature you have studied and/or discuss your enthusiasm for the study of a classical language and the insight it has provided into modern English, and/or the ancient culture from which it derives. It is particularly impressive to have an area of interest, such as a specific writer or philosopher, an aspect of ancient warfare or politics, or even an interest in ancient art, which you have undertaken to study independently, and about which you can write and discuss with confidence. Be prepared to discuss whatever you have written about in your personal statement in an Oxbridge interview. Your personal statement should also make reference to relevant work experience and you are likely to be asked about this.

Do I need to do work experience?

Ideally, you should try to get voluntary work in a museum or find a way of participating in an archaeological dig. However, evidence of any work which demands responsibility, reliability and an ability to work with others is acceptable.

Which jobs can I do with Classics?

Despite what one might think, people graduating from classical studies are highly valued by employers. Thanks to their studies, they learn to think logically, to compile and evaluate evidence and to express themselves clearly and succinctly both orally and in writing. Classicists can make their way into careers as diverse as the civil service, insurance, journalism, law, accountancy, public relations, computing and the wine trade. Further study is common, and according to The Times’ Good University Guide, over one third of graduates choose to pursue a postgraduate degree. You will gain invaluable ‘soft skills’ such as commitment, leadership, communication, teamwork from a degree in Classics and that will put you in a good position for just about anything.