Postgraduate Study in Classics
World-Class Research and Teaching in Classical Studies
The Faculty of Classics at Cambridge offers an exceptional environment for postgraduate study, combining world-renowned expertise, outstanding resources, and a vibrant intellectual community. For centuries, Cambridge has been at the forefront of classical scholarship, and today our Faculty continues this tradition of excellence with nearly 300 undergraduates, over 120 postgraduates, and dozens of academic staff and researchers.
Each year in November we hold a virtual postgraduate open day. For further information see here.
Our Postgraduate Programs
MPhil in Classics (9 months)
Our MPhil program provides intensive research training between October and June, offering a personalized pathway to advanced study of the classical world.
Program highlights:
- Close supervision from leading specialists in your field
- Weekly research seminars to develop and present your ideas
- Tailored program of study based on your research interests
- Comprehensive training in research methods and skills
- Excellent preparation for doctoral research
See here for further information.
PhD in Classics (3 years)
Our doctoral program has launched the careers of distinguished scholars teaching in universities worldwide. Your 80,000-word thesis will make an original contribution to classical scholarship under the guidance of expert supervisors.
Program highlights:
- Primary and secondary supervisors providing complementary expertise
- Structured annual reviews to support your progress
- Specialized training in research skills essential for in-depth classical study
- Opportunities to present your work at conferences and seminars
- Access to funding for research travel and conference attendance
See here for further information.
Advanced Diploma in Classics (9 months)
Launching in 2026–27, our Advanced Diploma is a nine-month taught postgraduate course designed for students - both UK and international - who have had limited or no prior experience in ancient Greek and/or Latin.
Program highlights:
- A fast-paced course providing intensive training in Latin and/or Greek
- Students take two language papers and one paper for examination from Part II of the Classical Tripos
- Students benefit from small-group classes, supervisions, and lectures, with dedicated guidance from a senior academic advisor
- Ideal preparation for MPhil or PhD work in Classics or related disciplines, teacher training, or personal enrichment
See here for further information.
Research Areas
Our Faculty offers exceptional expertise across the full range of classical disciplines:
- Greek and Latin Literature: From Homer to Late Antiquity
- Ancient Philosophy: From the Presocratics to Neoplatonism
- Ancient History: Political, social, economic, and cultural history of the Greek and Roman worlds
- Classical Art and Archaeology: Material culture from the Bronze Age to Late Antiquity
- Linguistics and Philology: Historical linguistics, papyrology, textual criticism
- Reception Studies: Classical influences on later periods and cultures
- Interdisciplinary Approaches: Digital humanities, comparative studies, theoretical frameworks
World-Class Resources
Cambridge offers unparalleled resources for classical research:
- Faculty of Classics Library: Over 60,000 volumes with 24-hour access for keyholders
- University Library: A legal deposit library with comprehensive classical holdings
- Museum of Classical Archaeology: One of the largest collections of plaster casts of classical sculpture
- Fitzwilliam Museum: Exceptional collections of classical art, coins, and antiquities
- Digital Resources: Access to specialized databases, digital archives, and research tools
Academic Community
Join a thriving international community of classical scholars:
- Research Seminars: Extensive program covering all classical disciplines
- Postgraduate Interdisciplinary Seminar: Weekly forum for presenting your research
- Annual Lectures: Gray and Corbett public lectures by leading figures in the field
- Research Workshops: Laurence and Craven seminars on diverse classical themes
- Interdisciplinary Opportunities: Engage with the Centre for Research in the Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities
College Life
As a Cambridge postgraduate student, you'll also be a member of a College, providing:
- Pastoral support and academic guidance
- Accommodation (in many cases)
- Social community and networking opportunities
- Interdisciplinary intellectual environment
- Additional funding opportunities
Funding Opportunities
We offer various funding options for postgraduate study:
- University-wide scholarships: Cambridge Trust, Gates Cambridge
- Faculty scholarships and bursaries: For outstanding applicants
- College funding: Many colleges offer scholarships and grants
- Research travel grants: Support for essential research trips
- Conference funding: Assistance to present your work internationally
See here for further information.
How to Apply
Applications for postgraduate study are made through the University's Graduate Admissions Office:
- Research proposal: Develop a clear research proposal in consultation with potential supervisors
- Online application: Submit via the University's Applicant Portal
- Supporting documents: Academic transcripts, writing sample, research proposal, references
- Deadlines: Check the University website for current application deadlines
We strongly encourage prospective applicants to contact potential supervisors before applying. See here and here for further information.
Career Pathways
Our postgraduates pursue diverse and successful careers:
- Academia: Faculty positions at leading universities worldwide
- Education: Teaching and educational leadership
- Heritage and Museums: Curation, conservation, and management
- Publishing: Academic and commercial publishing
- Civil Service: Policy development and implementation
- Media and Communications: Journalism, broadcasting, and digital media
- Business and Law: Various professional roles utilizing analytical and communication skills
Contact Us
For inquiries about postgraduate study in Classics at Cambridge:
- Email: pg-admissions@classics.cam.ac.uk
- Address: Faculty of Classics, Sidgwick Avenue, Cambridge, CB3 9DA, UK
Join us at Cambridge to become part of a centuries-old tradition of classical scholarship while contributing to cutting-edge research that continues to illuminate the ancient world and its enduring relevance.