Classics Course

Study the ancient world with a course in Classics!

Studying classics has long been considered the quintessential qualification. A favourite degree of many prime ministers and luminaries in the United Kingdom, learning about the ancient civilisations of Greece and Rome is highly regarded.

Classics as a discipline covers lots of different topics. It includes the study of Greco-Roman art. It looks at Philosophy and morality. It also includes studies of classical literature and world history. It is a very diverse subject, which is part of the reason that it is so well regarded.

Why should I study it?

While it is true that classics is a subject studied by many political leaders and luminaries, there are more reasons to study it than just that. Much of the world that we live in today has been shaped by the ancient Greeks and Romans who came before us, especially thanks to the Roman conquest of Britain, who would later spread that influence around the world.

Understanding the culture of these two civilisations will reveal the deep-seated roots in modern language and culture – indeed, the languages are still alive today. Latin is the language of science – particularly for classifications. Greek is still used in medicine and physics.

Furthermore, modern culture – especially high culture is still entirely shaped by the culture of classical civilisation. Art and Literature owes a lot to the works of the age. Greek philosophy is famous throughout the world – names like Plato and Aristotle are known by almost everyone.

What will I learn about classical civilisation?

Exactly what you will learn on a classics course depends on the level at which you study. Students who received a postgraduate qualification, such as Masters degree, will be held in higher regard than those who took a diploma. Decide at what level you would like to study and check if you are eligible for acceptance before beginning a course.

The study of classical civilisation will cover some of the following topics:

• Philology
  o The study of Latin and Greek texts. This can often involve learning to speak the language – although many people who study classics have learned the languages at school before.
• Archaeology
  o As the civilisations in question existed so long ago, archaeology forms an important part of the syllabus. This allows students to gain a practical knowledge of what contemporary classical life would have been like, based on the remains found in the modern day.
• History
  o This is included in the course for obvious reasons. It breaks down in to two further sections
• Art History, where students will learn about sculpture and other classical art forms, many of which are still held in high regard today
• Ancient History, where students will learn about the events of ancient Greece and Rome.
• There may be other elements of classics courses, including the study of philosophy, through many of the great ancient philosophers that both Greece and Rome were famous for. A newer discipline in classics in the study of Reception – how the meaning of classical art and literature has changed over the years.

What can I do once I am finished?

When you have completed your studies, you will have several options. You will be perfectly qualified to pursue a career in history – as you will have all the basic qualifications needed to continue with your studies. With an education in philosophy and art, you could also consider a career in related fields. The beauty of studying a course in classics is that it provides almost endless opportunities to do something truly exciting in the future.