MSc Classics & Ancient History

The MSc in Classics & Ancient History at the University of Glasgow is an advanced postgraduate program designed for students passionate about exploring the ancient world. This program provides in-depth knowledge and understanding of the classical civilizations of Greece and Rome, along with their history, literature, philosophy, and culture. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of how these ancient societies have shaped modern civilizations and will explore various aspects of the ancient world, from politics and social structures to art, literature, and religion. The program offers an excellent foundation for those pursuing careers in academia, museums, historical consultancy, and heritage industries.

Curriculum: The MSc in Classics & Ancient History offers a rigorous and engaging curriculum that blends core modules with elective options. Core modules cover the essential topics of ancient history, including the study of ancient texts, historical analysis, and archaeological methods. Students explore the political, social, and cultural dynamics of classical civilizations, with a focus on critical thinking, research skills, and analytical techniques. The program also emphasizes the study of Greek and Latin languages, allowing students to engage directly with primary ancient sources. Elective modules provide the flexibility for students to specialize in areas of interest, such as ancient philosophy, ancient religion, or ancient art and archaeology.

Research Focus: The University of Glasgow is known for its cutting-edge research in the field of classics and ancient history. The university’s dedicated research centers and academic staff are engaged in groundbreaking research that explores new perspectives on ancient civilizations. Students in the MSc Classics & Ancient History program benefit from this research-intensive environment, where they can engage with the latest scholarly work and contribute to ongoing research projects. The program encourages students to develop their own research ideas, with opportunities to undertake independent research projects and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field of ancient studies.

Industry Engagement: The University of Glasgow has strong ties to industries related to heritage, museums, archives, and education, providing students with opportunities to gain real-world experience. The MSc Classics & Ancient History program offers students the chance to work on collaborative projects with cultural institutions, museums, and archaeological sites. These collaborations help students build practical skills that are valuable in the job market, while also fostering a deeper understanding of how the study of the ancient world is applied in modern professional settings. Additionally, students can benefit from career services and networking opportunities to connect with alumni and industry professionals.

Global Perspective: With an international student body and faculty, the University of Glasgow offers a truly global perspective on the study of the ancient world. The MSc Classics & Ancient History program attracts students from across the globe, creating an enriching environment for learning and cultural exchange. The program also offers opportunities for students to engage in international research projects and attend global conferences, broadening their academic horizons. The university’s commitment to global scholarship ensures that students gain a well-rounded education, preparing them for careers in diverse, globally interconnected fields such as heritage management, academia, and historical consultancy.

Postgraduate Entry Requirements:

• Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
• English language proficiency is required, and applicants must provide evidence of their English language skills through an approved language test.
  • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual component below 6.
  • TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 90, with at least 19 in Listening, 20 in Reading, 19 in Speaking, and 23 in Writing.
  • PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 60 with no individual score below 59.
• Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

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 Glasgow offers a variety of scholarships to both domestic and international students to help support their studies. 

University of Glasgow International Excellence Scholarship: This scholarship is open to international students who have demonstrated academic excellence. It provides a tuition fee discount for postgraduate programs at the University of Glasgow.

Santander Scholarships: The University of Glasgow has a partnership with Santander Bank, which offers scholarships to support international students. These scholarships provide financial assistance to students from specific countries and cover a portion of the tuition fees.

GREAT Scholarships: The University of Glasgow participates in the GREAT Scholarships program, which is a joint initiative of the UK government and British universities. These scholarships are awarded to students from specific countries and cover a portion of the tuition fees.

Sir Fitzroy Maclean Postgraduate Scholarship: This scholarship is available to international students pursuing a postgraduate degree in either the School of Humanities or the School of Social and Political Sciences.

Chancellors Award: This scholarship is available to both domestic and international students studying any discipline at the University of Glasgow and offers a tuition fee discount of up to £10,000.

Glasgow International Leadership Scholarship: This scholarship is available to international students studying any postgraduate program and offers a tuition fee discount of up to £10,000.

Glasgow Refugee, Asylum and Migration Network Scholarship: This scholarship is available to students who have sought refuge in the UK and are studying any undergraduate or postgraduate program.

Completing an MSc in Classics & Ancient History from the University of Glasgow opens up diverse and promising career opportunities in various sectors. 

Academic or Researcher: Graduates can pursue careers in academia, working as lecturers or researchers in universities or research institutions. They can teach courses in classics and ancient history, conduct original research, and contribute to scholarly publications.

Museum Curator or Heritage Professional: Graduates can work in cultural heritage organizations, such as museums or archaeological sites, as curators or heritage professionals. They can contribute to the preservation, interpretation, and exhibition of ancient artifacts or sites.

Publishing and Media: Graduates can work in publishing companies or media organizations, utilizing their expertise in classics and ancient history to edit, write, or research content related to ancient civilizations for books, magazines, documentaries, or digital media.

Education and Outreach: Graduates can work in educational institutions or non-profit organizations, engaging in educational outreach programs that promote the study of classics and ancient history. They can develop educational materials, organize workshops, or lead guided tours.

Cultural Tourism and Heritage Management: Graduates can work in the tourism industry or heritage management organizations, focusing on promoting ancient historical sites and cultural tourism. They can contribute to destination management, tourism planning, or cultural interpretation.