Overview:
If you like learning about ancient times and what’s left of them, this Classical Archaeology and Ancient History (CAAH) course is for you.
This Oxford course integrates the exploration of history, archaeology, and art. It delves into the civilisations and societies of the ancient Mediterranean, analysing written records, visual artistic expressions, and tangible artifacts. The focal point of the course revolves around the dual classical cultures of Greece and Rome.
Designed for those intrigued by the study of ancient civilisations and their remnants, the course encompasses diverse subjects. From Greek temples and Roman amphitheatres to murals and the poignant traces of daily existence.
While its primary emphasis lies in historical and non-linguistic aspects, the course also offers the opportunity to engage with and acquire knowledge of ancient languages.
| UCAS Code | VV14 |
| Minimum Entrance Requirements | A-levels – AAA Advanced Highers – AA/AAB IB – 39 (including core points) with 666 at HL |
| Admission Test for CAAHat Oxford | None |
| Subject Requirements for CAAH at Oxford | A classical language, Classical Civilisation or Ancient History subject can be helpful to students. |
| Extras things admission tutors look for | Written Work: 2 Pieces Submitted by: 23 November 2023 Application/Interest: Candidates must demonstrate intellectual potential and specific visual, textual, and reasoning abilities. They must also show strong; past and predicted examination results, UCAS personal statement, academic references, written work and interview. |
| Duration | 3 Years (BA) |
| Admissions Statistics | Interviewed: 90%, Successful: 22% |
| What is Classical Archaeology and Ancient History at Oxford? | The degree programme offers a mix of tutorials, lectures, and classes. Some classes focus on archaeology or the history of ancient Mediterranean cultures, while others uniquely combine both approaches. Each year of the course includes classes led by both an archaeologist and a historian, giving a well-rounded perspective on the topics studied. The university provides excellent resources for this subject. This also includes a great library (especially the Bodleian Art, Archaeology, and Ancient World Library) and many experts in both fields. The Ashmolean Museum also has a wide collection of art and items from ancient cultures. There are also two hands-on parts to the course: 1. Two weeks in the first year are spent on an archaeological project or museum placement. 2. In the second and third years, however, you’ll prepare a report about a specific ancient site or artefacts in a museum. Students in this course have also gone to different places for practical work, like Italy and Spain. |
| Oxford Colleges that Offer Classical Archaeology and Ancient History Course | Balliol College, Brasenose College, Christ Church, Corpus Christi College, Exeter College, Keble College, Lady Margaret Hall, Lincoln College, Magdalen College, Merton College, Oriel College, St Anne’s College, St Hilda’s College, St John’s College, Somerville College, University College, Wadham College, Worcester College |
| Structure of the Classical Archaeology and Ancient History Course at Oxford | Year 1 The year includes four courses with four written papers This includes 4-6 Lectures per week. There will also be 1 team-taught class per week for the first two terms. In addition, students will have tutorials (one every one to two weeks) and/or language classes Core elements: Aristocracy and democracy in the Greek world, 550–450 BC; Republic to empire: Rome, 50 BC to AD 50 Students will also choose from current optional elements. Year 2 & 3 Six courses with Six written papers Students will choose from six options as well as prepare a report on a site or museum. |
| Common Careers after Classical Archaeology and Ancient History at Oxford | Graduates of Classical Archaeology and Ancient History at Oxford secure opportunities in Museum Curation, Heritage Management, Education, Finance, Advertising, Publishing, The Civil Service, and The Law Recent CAAH Graduates include a Financial Adviser, a Teacher, and a Curator. |
