MSc Ancient History

The MSc in Ancient History at the University of Edinburgh is an intensive postgraduate program designed for those passionate about studying the ancient world. It offers students the opportunity to delve deeply into the history, cultures, and societies of ancient civilizations, from Greece and Rome to Egypt and Mesopotamia. This program equips students with the critical skills needed to analyze historical sources, interpret archaeological evidence, and explore the social, political, and cultural contexts of ancient societies.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the MSc in Ancient History at Edinburgh is interdisciplinary, combining history with archaeology, classics, and philosophy. Students engage with a wide range of modules that cover topics such as ancient historiography, Roman history, the Greek world, ancient warfare, and ancient religion. Through seminars, workshops, and lectures, students are encouraged to develop a comprehensive understanding of the ancient world, with an emphasis on research-led teaching. The program is structured to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical research skills, culminating in a dissertation project that allows students to specialize in a particular area of interest.

Research Focus: Edinburgh’s MSc in Ancient History is deeply research-oriented, benefitting from the university’s longstanding expertise in historical and archaeological research. The program draws on the university’s strong focus on ancient civilizations and offers students the chance to engage with the latest research developments in the field. Students are encouraged to develop their own research projects, which are supported by faculty who are leading experts in various areas of ancient history. The university’s research is internationally recognized, and students have access to a wealth of resources, including the world-renowned Edinburgh University Library and archaeological collections.

Industry Engagement: The University of Edinburgh fosters strong connections with industry and heritage sectors, providing students with opportunities for internships and collaborative projects. The program encourages students to engage with museums, heritage sites, and archaeological digs, offering practical experiences that enrich their academic studies. Moreover, Edinburgh’s location offers access to a vibrant cultural and historical scene, providing ample opportunities for fieldwork, conferences, and networking with professionals in the heritage and academic sectors.

Global Perspective: The MSc in Ancient History at Edinburgh emphasizes a global perspective, offering students a diverse and inclusive approach to studying ancient civilizations. The university’s international faculty and diverse student body create an intellectually stimulating environment, where global perspectives on historical interpretation and research are encouraged. This global engagement is also reflected in the program’s approach to research, as students are exposed to different methodologies and ideas from scholars across the world.

Postgraduate entry requirements:

1. Academic Qualifications: Prospective postgraduate applicants to the University of Edinburgh are typically required to have achieved a minimum academic qualification of approximately 60%, based on their previous academic achievements and qualifications.  

2. English Language Proficiency:  

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 7.0, with at least 6.0 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 100 on the internet-based test (iBT), with at least 20 in each component (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing).

   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum overall score of 70, with at least 59 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Edinburgh offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities specifically designed to support international students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs. These scholarships aim to promote diversity, academic excellence, and global engagement. 

Global Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh offers Global Scholarships to outstanding international undergraduate students. These scholarships provide financial assistance towards tuition fees and living expenses, enabling talented students from around the world to access quality education at Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships: International postgraduate students pursuing research-based programs (Ph.D., MSc by Research) can apply for Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships. These scholarships provide full or partial funding for tuition fees and living expenses during the research program.

School-specific Scholarships: Some academic schools and departments within the university offer scholarships targeting international students in specific disciplines or programs. These scholarships may be merit-based or need-based and vary in terms of eligibility criteria and funding amounts.

Commonwealth Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh participates in various Commonwealth scholarship schemes, providing opportunities for students from Commonwealth countries to study in the UK. These scholarships are funded by the UK government and other organizations.

External Funding Sources: International students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, such as government scholarships, private organizations, and international foundations, to support their studies at the University of Edinburgh.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.

The MSc Ancient History program equips graduates with valuable skills and knowledge that open doors to diverse career paths within academia, cultural institutions, heritage sectors, media, and beyond. Graduates are well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to the understanding and preservation of ancient civilizations while pursuing fulfilling careers aligned with their interests and expertise.

Academic Research and Teaching: Many graduates of the MSc Ancient History program pursue further academic study or enter careers in higher education. They may pursue doctoral studies to specialize in specific areas of ancient history and eventually pursue careers as researchers or professors in universities and colleges.

Museum and Cultural Heritage Sector: Graduates find opportunities in museums, galleries, and cultural heritage institutions. They may work as curators, museum educators, or heritage managers, preserving and interpreting ancient artifacts and historical sites for public engagement.

Archaeology and Fieldwork: Those interested in archaeology may work in field research projects, excavation sites, or cultural resource management. They contribute to archaeological investigations, artifact analysis, and site preservation efforts.

Publishing and Journalism: Some graduates pursue careers in publishing, writing, or journalism, leveraging their expertise in ancient history to contribute articles, books, or documentaries about the past for a wider audience.

Education and Outreach: Graduates with a passion for education can work as educators in schools, colleges, or educational outreach programs. They develop curriculum materials, deliver workshops, or engage in public lectures to promote understanding of ancient history.

Heritage Conservation and Tourism: Opportunities exist in heritage conservation, tourism, and cultural tourism management. Graduates may contribute to tourism initiatives, historic site management, or cultural policy development.

Public Service and Nonprofit Organizations: Some graduates work in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, or international institutions that focus on heritage preservation, cultural diplomacy, or international development.

Transferable Skills Careers: The skills acquired during the MSc program, including critical thinking, research, analysis, and communication, are transferable to various sectors such as business, consulting, public relations, and administration.