Prospective students

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Study Classics at Cambridge

Discover the Ancient World, Shape Your Future

Classics at Cambridge offers an unparalleled journey into the ancient Greek and Roman worlds—their languages, literature, philosophy, history, art, and archaeology. This rich tapestry of human experience continues to shape our modern world, from our concepts of democracy and citizenship to our understanding of beauty, justice, and ethics.

Consistently ranked among the top Classics departments globally and #3 in the UK (The Complete University Guide 2025), Cambridge provides a vibrant, challenging, and intellectually stimulating environment for studying the classical world.

Why Cambridge Classics?

Cambridge offers exceptional advantages for Classics students:

  • World-leading expertise: Learn from internationally renowned specialists across all classical disciplines
  • Inclusive pathways: Choose our four-year course if you have no prior Latin or Greek, or our three-year course if you already have Latin A-Level
  • Unrivalled resources: Access unique collections at the Museum of Classical Archaeology, the Fitzwilliam Museum's Department of Antiquities, and our specialized Classics Faculty Library
  • Exceptional career prospects: Our graduates consistently achieve outstanding employment outcomes across diverse sectors
  • Vibrant community: Join a close-knit, supportive environment of scholars and students passionate about the ancient world

Your Pathway to Classics

No prior Latin or Greek required: Our four-year course welcomes students with no previous classical language experience, providing intensive language training alongside exploration of classical civilization.

Already studied Latin? Our three-year course builds on your existing knowledge while introducing you to Greek and the broader classical world.

Interested in combining languages? Explore our Modern and Medieval Languages with Classics pathway, allowing you to study a modern language alongside Latin or Greek.

Beyond the Classroom

Cambridge Classics extends far beyond lectures and libraries:

  • Participate in archaeological excavations in the Mediterranean
  • Attend performances of Greek drama in the original language
  • Join reading groups and student societies
  • Travel to classical sites with faculty-led study trips
  • Engage with visiting scholars through our extensive seminar program

Connect With Us

We welcome applications from students of all backgrounds who share our passion for understanding the ancient world.

Explore our dedicated sections for Undergraduate Study, Postgraduate Study, Affiliated Students, and Teachers and Schools to learn more about specific programs and opportunities.

"Studying Classics at Cambridge has given me not just knowledge of the ancient world, but analytical skills and perspectives that apply to everything from politics to literature. The supportive community and world-class teaching have been transformative." — Recent Cambridge Classics graduate