Classical Archaeology and Ancient History

This innovative 3-year course offers the opportunity to study the complex civilizations of Greece and Rome through a combination of archaeology and ancient history. In the first year, there are two core papers (one on Greek, one on Roman civilization), and two further options, which allow a degree of specialization in both archaeology and ancient history, or to learn Latin or Greek. The main part of the course builds on the work done in the first year, with larger subjects combining archaeology and history and a much greater variety of options, ranging from the second millennium B.C. to early medieval Europe. Knowledge of Latin or Greek is not required, although there is the option to begin these languages from scratch or to continue with them up to intermediate level as part of the course.

There are two practical elements to the course – the construction of a site- or museum-report, and a fieldwork requirement, either on a University-sponsored excavation or on another field project in the Mediterranean. There is generous University funding for fieldwork and travel, which the College supplements with a system of Travel/Research Grants that currently offer up to a maximum £1,050 over the length of an undergraduate’s course of study.

One or two candidates are admitted each year.

Tuition

A considerable proportion of the tuition will be provided within College by the Tutor in Ancient History and by the Lecturer in Archaeology. One of the innovative features of the course is that the two core papers on Greek and Roman civilization which are taken in the first year are taught jointly in central University classes by archaeologists and historians. Tuition for other specialist options available is provided elsewhere in the University.

Entry Procedures

There are no specific subject requirements for this course, although it is helpful for candidates to have studied the archaeology or history of any period.

Written work

Candidates must submit two copies of two recently marked essays written as part of their school or college course. The copies should be secured with a paperclip only and have a completed cover sheet. They must be sent directly to Magdalen College, c/o Tutor for Admissions, to reach the College no later than 10th November.

Interview

There will be no written tests. Candidates will be asked questions about reading which they will be given before the interview, in order that tutors may assess how well they can discuss issues which arise from it, and about artefacts which they will be shown during the interview. No previous preparation is expected for these, nor is any specialist knowledge assumed.

Our conditional offer will normally be AAA for the three subjects offered at A2.

Please note that Magdalen cannot normally consider deferred entry for this course.

Enquiries

Enquiries about the course are welcomed. They should be addressed to Dr Alfonso Moreno, the Tutor in Ancient History, or to the Tutor for Admissions. Potential applicants are encouraged to attend our Open Days.

External links