Classics and Ancient Civilizations (MA)
The MA Classics and Ancient Civilizations at Leiden University covers the entire range of present-day research on the civilizations of Egypt, Mesopotamia, Anatolia, Syria and Palestine, Greece and the Roman Empire. In chronological terms, the program covers thousands of years, from the early origins of Egyptian and Sumerian societies down to the world of Greece and Rome, including its modern reception from the Renaissance to the twenty-first century.
Specialisations
Learn more about this master's programme by watching the Master's Talks programme videos.
Classics and Ancient Civilizations at Leiden University
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Why study Classics and Ancient Civilizations at Leiden University
The Master programme distinguishes itself from other similar programmes through its flexibility and wide range of electives, through the diversity of the research-related specialisms offered within the program, and through the collaboration of Assyriology, Classics, Egyptology and Hebrew and Aramaic Studies within one program. The program is well connected with excellent research institutes in Leiden, including the National Institute for the Near East (NINO), the National Museum of Antiquities (RMO) and the University Library, which hosts the Papyrological Institute and a unique collection of ancient and medieval manuscripts.
Classics and Ancient Civilizations at Leiden University has been ranked 10th in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023.
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Use a wide range of research methods
Research-based learning is characteristic of the program: students are trained in critical thinking and they learn by doing research on a small or large scale; they are constantly exposed to the ongoing research of the teaching staff (also in small-scale settings or individual meetings with a professor), and they are encouraged to participate in scholarly workshops, conferences and lectures.
Admission and Application
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Close, individual tuition
At Leiden, our Master students are considered valued members of a close-knit academic community. Small classes, regular individual mentoring, and an informal, open-door policy create an environment that is ideal for the exchange of ideas and the development of your knowledge and intellectual abilities.
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Critical-thinking and advanced research skills
An important goal of the programme is to develop your ability to conduct high-quality scientific research using a wide variety of research methods. Classics and Ancient Civilizations is a particularly exciting field in which to conduct research, with different research sources opening up the possibility of completely fresh interpretations of the past. Many students conduct field research in a country abroad, visiting excavation sites, or participate in one of our department’s own research projects including excavations at Saqqara and the Dakhla Oasis.
In which sector do students find jobs?
- 57 Education
- 14 Research
- 10 Government and semi-government organisations
- 5 Culture, sports and recreation
- 5 Publishing
- 5 IT
- 4 Other
The graph above is based on alumni data from the MA Classics and Ancient Civilisations 2016-2020.
Classics and Ancient Civilizations degree
Classics and Ancient Civilizations at Leiden University is an accredited degree programme. After successful completion of this programme, you will receive a Master degree in Classics and Ancient Civilizations and the title Master of Arts (MA).