COURSE CURRICULUM

The two-year Research MA in Classics and Ancient Civilizations at Leiden University, with the Classics track, offers an advanced exploration of the literary, cultural, and intellectual worlds of Greece and Rome. Students are immersed in current research while being encouraged to reflect on the relevance of classical studies in the 21st century. The program combines rigorous training in Greek and Latin language and literature with interdisciplinary engagement and research skill development, preparing graduates for academic andprofessional careers in the humanities.The program includes Common Courses shared with other specialisations, such as Assyriology, Egyptology, and Hebrew and Aramaic Studies. These courses foster interdisciplinary thinking by connecting various fields and encouraging students to examine cultural phenomena beyond their immediate focus. By engaging with peers from neighbouring disciplines, students benefit from cross-fertilisation of ideas and gain broader perspectives on research topics. Since the curriculum aligns with current trends in scholarship, specific course content may vary each year to reflect emerging research.In the fourth semester, students begin their thesis, receiving individual guidance from supervisors and participating in the Research Career Seminar. This seminar develops essential academic skills, including writing and presenting research, preparing proposals according to Dutch Research Council (NWO) standards, and understanding the peer-review process. Students learn to produce work suitable for submission to peer-reviewed journals, strengthening both their thesis and broader research competencies.Additionally, students take courses offered by the national research school in classical studies, OIKOS, earning up to 5 EC per academic year (10 EC total) to supplement their methodological and disciplinary training. By combining interdisciplinary coursework, research-focused seminars, and independent thesis work, the Research MA Classics track equips graduates with the expertise, analytical skills, and practical experience necessary for advanced research, academic careers, and roles in cultural heritage, publishing, or related fields.