Classics and Ancient Civilizations: Research Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
| Award | Attendance | Study | Duration | Start | Domestic fees | International fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Master Degree | On-Campus | Full-time | 1 years | September | €2694 per year | €24830 per year |
Course overview
The research Master's programme in Classics and Ancient Civilizations trains you to be a researcher in the field of Ancient Studies. This includes Classics, Archaeology, Ancient History and Ancient Near Eastern Studies.
You will focus on the languages, cultures and history of the Mediterranean region, Western Europe and Western Asia in the period from 1600 BC to 500 AD.
During the programme, you will be firmly rooted in one of the disciplines, but you will also be trained to perform in-depth research within the broad field of Ancient Studies from an interdisciplinary perspective. You will develop an excellent foundation for research-focused a career either in or outside academia.
Summer School
Apply to VU Amsterdam Summer School and develop your academic skills in a focused and inspiring study abroad experience.
Entry requirements
You can be admitted to the Research Master's programme if you have obtained an academic (WO) Bachelor's degree in:
- Classics (Griekse en Latijnse Taal en Cultuur)
- Ancient Studies (Oudheidwetenschappen)
- History with Ancient History as specialization;
- Philosophy with Ancient Philosophy as specialization
- Archaeology
- Assyriology
- Religious Studies
- A similar degree programme with a relevant specialization.
You must demonstrate the following knowledge, understanding and skills:
- Knowledge: knowledge of current research methods and theories within the field of Classics and Ancient Civilizations
- Understanding: the ability to interpret linguistic, literary or historical texts and/or archaeological data from an interdisciplinary perspective
- Skills: the ability to translate, interpret and analyse Greek and Latin texts of average difficulty with the help of the scholarly apparatus (grammar, dictionary, commentary, secondary literature) (Classics); the ability to carry out a survey of primary sources (literary or material) and secondary literature and to derive from this a 'status quaestionis' (Ancient Studies)
Selection criteria
Your average mark for your Bachelor's programme was 7.5 (or equivalent) or higher;
English language requirements
You must always present official test results proving your proficiency in English. You can apply online without having the test results, but in case you haven't taken a test yet we advise you to plan a test date as soon as possible. The qualification or test result must have been awarded no more than two years prior to the proposed date of enrolment. Below you will find the minimum English test scores for the English taught programmes at the Faculty of Humanities:
- TOEFL score 600 paper based with a minimum of 55 in each of the subtests plus 4.0 in TWE, score 250 computer based or score 100 internet based with a minimum of 20-23 in each of the subtests).
- IELTS score of 7.0 overall band score (with none of the separate section scores dropping below a minimum score of 6.5).
- Cambridge English: Cambridge Proficiency Exam with score A, B, or C; or Cambridge Advanced Exam with score A, B, or C.
Exemptions from providing the English test scores are applicable to students, who:
- have completed an English-taught secondary or higher education degree in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, New Zealand or Australia; or
- have earned a Bachelor's or Master's degree in an English-taught programme accredited by NVAO in the Netherlands, or
- have earned a Bachelor's or Master's degree in an accredited English-taught programme in another member state of the European Union
The required evidence should, if possible, be included with the complete application. If either unsatisfactory or no evidence of English language proficiency has been provided with the application, admission will be conditional upon the provision of such evidence. This condition will be clearly indicated on the offer letter and must be fulfilled before enrolment at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam.
Why study at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Studying with a green Conscience
VU Amsterdam champions sustainability and environmental responsibility with green buildings and parks on campus. Committed to climate change research and eco-friendly practices, we are at the forefront of promoting a greener future through innovative education and initiatives.
Be part of a diverse student community.
VU Amsterdam is known for its diverse and welcoming community, with students from over 120 countries. We create a supportive environment that fosters personal connections and collaborative learning, making it an ideal choice for international students seeking an inclusive academic experience.
An excellent history in education
Experience an affordable university in Amsterdam with nearly 150 years of excellence in science education and research. Join a vibrant community of international students and earn a prestigious degree in a rich academic environment. Choose us for a transformative educational journey!
Your gateway to Europe
VU Amsterdam is located in Amsterdam's thriving Zuidas business district, providing excellent access to Europe's cultural and professional opportunities. Studying here offers valuable internships and networking connections, placing you at the centre of a dynamic European landscape. Open doors to your future career with an education that connects you to the continent!