Oxford Classics & Modern Languages: Overview and Entrance Requirements

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Overview:

The Classics and Modern Languages course offers a unique blend of Latin or Ancient Greek with a modern language. Study ancient texts, enhance linguistic skills, and explore how classical literature influences modern cultures. Compare texts across both fields, focusing on the classical impact on European literature. 

Oxford boasts the world’s largest Classics Faculty and a well-equipped Language Centre. Access Bodleian resources, Ashmolean Museum, and a dedicated Classics Centre. Develop spoken modern language fluency through interaction with native speakers.

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UCAS CodeSee course combinations
Minimum Entrance Requirements A-levels – AAA (with As in Latin and Greek, if taken)Advanced Highers – AA/AAB (with A in Latin, if taken)IB – 39 (including core points) with 666 at HL
Admission Test for Classics & Modern Languages at OxfordBoth CAT & MLAT 
CAT (Classics Admissions Test)Test Date: 19 October 2023
MLAT (Modern Languages Admissions Test)Test Date: 20 October 2023
Registration Deadline: 29 September 2023    
Subject Requirements for Classics & Modern Languagesat OxfordLatin and/or Greek (for Course I only) and a modern language (depending on course choice) are Essential.
Extras things admission tutors look forWritten Work: 2/4 pieces for both Classics & Modern Languages
Submission deadline: 10 November 2023
Application/Interest: Competence in Latin or Greek (or general language aptitude if applying for Course II)
Duration4 or 5 years with a year abroad (BA)
Admissions StatisticsInterviewed: 88%Successful: 39%
What is Classics & Modern Languagesat Oxford?The course allows students to combine the study of Latin and/or Ancient Greek with a modern language. 
It emphasises the study of significant literary texts from antiquity and offers training in linguistic skills. 
The curriculum explores the influence of classical literature and culture on modern societies. 
Students can directly compare texts from both sides of the course, focusing on how classical works have shaped European literature. 
The University of Oxford’s extensive resources, including its large Classics Faculty, well-equipped Language Centre, and access to libraries and museums, enhance the learning experience. 
Additionally, students have the opportunity to develop oral proficiency in the chosen modern language through interactions with native speakers.
What Colleges Offer Classics & Modern Languagesat Oxford?Please visit the University of Oxford website for the full list of colleges, depending on the language option you have chosen.
Structure of the Classics & Modern Languages Course at OxfordYou will study Course I (if you have studied Latin and/or Greek to A-level standard or equivalent) or Course II (if you have not).
Two routes through the course, called ‘options,’ are available to CML students. This is separate from courses. 
Option A, Year 1 (Course I) or Years 1 and 2 (Course II)
Focuses evenly between Classics (mostly language and literature) and Modern Languages.
Course II students spend a preliminary year studying Latin or Greek, then follow Course I.

Three papers in the ancient language; four papers in the modern language.
Option B Years 1 and 2 (Terms 1-5)As for Classics for the first five terms, course II students follow Classics Course II.
Ten papers
Options A and B (plus intercalated year abroad) Terms 4-9 (Option A Course I), 6-12 (Option B), or 7-12 (Option A, Course II)
Centres on Classics, Modern Language, and possibility of a paper or a long essay exploring the links between ancient and modern literatures
Nine papers in total (eight compulsory, one optional) plus oral exam in the modern language.
A thesis may be offered in place of one of the compulsory papers in Classics.
Common Careers after Classics & Modern Languages at OxfordGraduates of Classics & Modern Languagesat Oxford secure opportunities in 
Media
Teaching
Acting
ManagementLawPublishingAdvertising Librarianship, as well as working with international companies or organisations
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