We use cookies on reading.ac.uk to improve your experience, monitor site performance and tailor content to you
Read our cookie policy to find out how to manage your cookie settings
Immerse yourself in the study of classical civilisations with this multidisciplinary degree, focusing on the literature, culture and history of the ancient Mediterranean world.
You'll draw on the Department’s wide-ranging expertise, which spans Egypt, Greece, Rome and the Near East from the Bronze Age to Late Antiquity, and the reception of classical material in modern cultures.
You can study our master's degree on a full-time, part-time or flexible basis.
On our master's course your modules will comprise Approaches to Classics and Ancient History, Research Methods, Latin or Ancient Greek, Special Options and Dissertation.
The Approaches to Classics and Ancient History module introduces you to the disciplines, techniques and theoretical approaches that are necessary for advanced work or research in the field. It equips you with a grounding in the skills that are required to engage in this work.
On the Research Methods module you'll learn about IT and bibliographic research tools, and skills including academic writing, designing a research project and writing a research proposal.
For the Dissertation module, you'll develop research skills, critical responses, and independent judgment as you research a topic of your choice and produce a dissertation.
You can choose to study two Special Options from a list including topics in literature, history, art or archaeology. Alternatively you can replace the Special Options with a second ancient language or with an appropriate period of study abroad.
Popular Special Options include Greeks and the Land, Writing for Museum Displays, Art in the Hellenistic Society, Multilingualism and Empire, Cities and the Ancient Economy.
Sample modules are provided as a taster of some of the modules that may be available on the courses described on this website. The University cannot guarantee that a module appearing in this list will definitely run. Optional modules vary from year to year and entry to them will be at the discretion of the programme director.
All students interested in studying one of our master's courses are eligible to apply for postgraduate funding.
Both UK and international students can apply for a range of scholarships. UK students can receive government loans to help towards tuition fees and living costs. You may also be eligible for other grants and bursaries.
Our internationally acclaimed academic staff provide expert teaching, enabling you to advance your skills to the next level. Learn an ancient language as part of the course and access unique resources in the on-site Ure Museum.
Develop your knowledge through lively seminars and workshops, and attend weekly research seminars delivered by leading scholars from all branches of the discipline.
Join our supportive, inclusive community of staff and students who are passionate in their pursuit of new approaches to classics and ancient history.