BA (Hons) Classics, Art History & Archaeology

The BA (Hons) Classics, Art History & Archaeology program at University College Dublin (UCD) offers students a multidisciplinary exploration of the ancient world, encompassing classical literature, art history, and archaeological studies. This program provides a comprehensive understanding of the cultural heritage of ancient civilizations, including Greece, Rome, and Egypt, through the study of their literature, visual arts, and material remains. Through a combination of theoretical study, hands-on experience, and fieldwork opportunities, students develop critical thinking skills, research abilities, and a deep appreciation for the richness and complexity of ancient civilizations.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the BA (Hons) Classics, Art History & Archaeology at UCD is designed to cover a wide range of topics in classical studies, art history, and archaeology. Core modules include courses in classical literature, ancient history, art theory, museum studies, and archaeological methods. Students also have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as Greek and Roman art, ancient philosophy, classical mythology, or archaeological fieldwork. The program integrates theoretical knowledge with practical skills, including artifact analysis, museum curation, and site excavation, preparing students for careers in academia, cultural heritage, museums, and heritage conservation.

Research Focus: UCD's BA (Hons) Classics, Art History & Archaeology program emphasizes research as a cornerstone of academic and professional engagement with the ancient world. The university's faculty members are actively engaged in research on various aspects of classical studies, art history, and archaeology, including literary analysis, art conservation, and excavation projects. Students have the opportunity to participate in research projects, conduct independent research, and present their findings at conferences and symposia. UCD's commitment to research excellence ensures that students develop the skills and knowledge necessary to critically analyze ancient texts, interpret visual artifacts, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their fields.

Industry Engagement: UCD fosters strong connections with industry partners to enhance the relevance of its Classics, Art History & Archaeology program and provide students with practical experience in the field. Through internships, work placements, and collaborations with museums and cultural institutions, students gain insights into real-world applications of their academic training. UCD's Career Development Centre offers additional support by connecting students with potential employers in academia, museums, heritage organizations, and archaeological consulting firms. Industry engagement initiatives ensure that graduates of the BA (Hons) Classics, Art History & Archaeology program are well-prepared for careers that involve preserving, interpreting, and promoting cultural heritage.

Global Perspective: UCD is committed to providing students with a global perspective on the ancient world, recognizing the interconnectedness of ancient civilizations and the importance of cross-cultural understanding. The BA (Hons) Classics, Art History & Archaeology program attracts students and faculty from diverse cultural backgrounds, creating a rich and multicultural learning environment. UCD offers opportunities for international exchange programs, study abroad experiences, and collaborative research projects with universities and archaeological sites worldwide. Through these initiatives, students gain exposure to different cultural contexts, research methodologies, and interpretation approaches, preparing them to engage with global challenges and contribute to the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage on a global scale.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements 

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 75% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 90 with a minimum of 19 in each section.
• PTE: Overall score of 63 with a minimum of 59 in each section.
• DET: Overall score of 120 with no section score below 110 is required.

Students must provide:

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

It's important to note that entry requirements can vary by program and may change over time. Additionally, some programs may have additional requirements, such as interviews, portfolios, or work experience.

UCD offers various scholarships and financial aid options specifically designed to support international students pursuing their education at the university. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, promote diversity, and alleviate the financial burden for deserving students. 

UCD Global Excellence Graduate Scholarship: This merit-based scholarship is awarded to high-achieving international students applying for eligible full-time master's programs. It covers a percentage of the tuition fees for the duration of the program.

UCD Global Undergraduate Scholarship: Intended for non-EU students, this scholarship is based on academic performance and offers financial assistance towards tuition fees for the duration of undergraduate studies.

UCD Ad Astra Academic Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to outstanding students with exceptional academic achievements and offers financial support along with enrichment opportunities.

Sports Scholarships: For students who excel in sports, UCD offers scholarships to support their academic pursuits while actively participating in sports at a competitive level.

Government and External Scholarships: UCD collaborates with various governments, organizations, and foundations worldwide to offer additional scholarship opportunities for international students based on specific criteria and partnerships.

Graduating with a BA (Hons) in Classics, Art History & Archaeology from University College Dublin (UCD) provides students with a diverse range of career opportunities in fields related to cultural heritage, academia, museums, and archaeology. The interdisciplinary nature of the program equips graduates with a unique skill set combining historical knowledge, art analysis, and archaeological research. 

Museum Curator/Conservator: Graduates can work as museum curators or conservators, responsible for the preservation, interpretation, and display of cultural artifacts and artworks. They may work in museums, galleries, or heritage institutions, curating exhibitions, conducting research, and implementing conservation treatments to ensure the long-term preservation of cultural heritage.

Archaeologist/Field Researcher: Graduates can pursue careers as archaeologists or field researchers, conducting excavations, surveys, and field studies to uncover and study ancient civilizations and historical sites. They may work for archaeological consulting firms, government agencies, research institutes, or academic institutions, contributing to our understanding of the past through hands-on fieldwork and laboratory analysis.

Art Historian/Researcher: Graduates can work as art historians or researchers, studying the history, aesthetics, and cultural significance of artworks and visual artifacts. They may work in universities, museums, or research institutes, conducting archival research, writing scholarly articles or books, and contributing to the documentation and interpretation of art historical knowledge.

Cultural Heritage Manager/Consultant: Graduates can work as cultural heritage managers or consultants, responsible for managing and preserving cultural heritage sites, monuments, and collections. They may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private consulting firms, developing heritage management plans, conducting impact assessments, and implementing conservation strategies.

Educator/Teacher: Graduates can pursue careers in education as teachers or educators, teaching courses in classics, art history, or archaeology at the secondary or post-secondary level. They may work in schools, colleges, or universities, inspiring students to explore the wonders of the ancient world, develop critical thinking skills, and appreciate the value of cultural heritage.

Heritage Tourism Specialist/Guide: Graduates can work in the tourism industry as heritage tourism specialists or guides, leading tours of archaeological sites, museums, and cultural landmarks. They may work for tour companies, travel agencies, or cultural institutions, providing educational and engaging experiences for visitors interested in exploring the past.

Archival Researcher/Documentary Filmmaker: Graduates can work as archival researchers or documentary filmmakers, uncovering and documenting historical sources and narratives related to ancient civilizations and art history. They may work for documentary production companies, museums, or historical archives, producing films, exhibits, or publications that bring the past to life for diverse audiences.

Art Gallery Manager/Dealer: Graduates can work in the art market as gallery managers or dealers, responsible for curating exhibitions, managing collections, and facilitating the sale of artworks. They may work for commercial galleries, auction houses, or art fairs, connecting artists with collectors and promoting the appreciation and acquisition of art.

Cultural Policy Analyst/Advocate: Graduates can work in the public sector or advocacy organizations as cultural policy analysts or advocates, promoting the importance of cultural heritage preservation and supporting policies and initiatives that protect and promote cultural diversity. They may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or international institutions, influencing cultural policy development and implementation.

Freelance Writer/Consultant: Graduates can work as freelance writers or consultants, leveraging their expertise in classics, art history, and archaeology to write articles, blogs, or books, or to provide expert advice on cultural heritage projects or research initiatives. They may contribute to publications, websites, or cultural organizations, sharing their passion for the past with diverse audiences.