This track offers education in a wide range of skills to the aspiring classicist: from in-depth analysis of all aspects of a Greek or Latin text to interdisciplinary and thematic studies of important facets of Classical Antiquity.
There are three different programs for those interested in Classics; the courses presented on this page are common to all three programs:
the one-year general MA-track, covered on this page
the two-year Research Master CMEMS, with the option to specialize in Classics, for students wishing to pursue an academic career
the two-year Educational Master, for students wishing to become a teacher in Classics; this MA combines the program covered here with the one-year Teacher Education program. This Dutch program is only open to students with sufficient Dutch language skills (NT2, program II).
In the one-year Master’s track, students acquire the knowledge and skills required of a professional classicist. The program in Groningen is known for its integration of classical languages and ancient cultural history. Students learn how to apply modern scholarly theories to ancient literary and material sources; they also hone their skills in the fields of philology, textual criticism, and intertextuality by writing an academic commentary on a classical text. This master’s track offers flexibility in choosing between a more linguistic or a more cultural-historical approach; it is also possible to study epigraphy at another faculty within the Masterlanguage program or to include a work placement in the program.
Our alumni are skilled writers and have eye for detail but also for the bigger picture, which makes them sought-after employees in many fields, including (but not limited to) education, publishing, the cultural sector, journalism, and the government.
This Master’s track is also offered on a part-time basis.
NB The language of instruction is English; Dutch students (excepting those following the Research Master) are allowed, however, to write their papers and thesis in Dutch, since many will pursue a career in the Netherlands.
Why study this program in Groningen?
A broad approach to Antiquity
Integration of classical languages and ancient cultural history
Strong expertise in Hellenistic literature, Greek linguistics, Greek religion, Latin poetry of the early Empire, commentaries, literature in its spatial and socio-cultural context
Relatively small and friendly community
Internationally orientated research climate
Excellent teaching: two staff members elected Lecturer of the Year
A vibrant university city with many international students
