Classics

Classics at Cambridge combines many disciplines and perspectives in the study of Greek and Roman Antiquity. The Greek and Roman world is studied here as a period in the past and through the receptions of classical culture, language and philosophy both historically and in the present day. 

Classics can be studied as either a three-year or a four-year course. The latter provides an introductory year focussing on the Latin language, Latin literature, and classical culture more broadly; students start work on Greek in their second term in Cambridge, and after their first year join the three-year group for the remainder of the degree.

Some graduates go into research and teaching in schools and universities, or work in libraries and museums. But most go into other careers – in law, the media, accountancy, the Civil Service, industry and business.

Students taking the four-year course have a starting year referred to as ‘Prelims’, before moving onto Parts I and II. Students studying the three-year course begin at Part IA.

In ‘Prelims’ students begin to solidify their understanding of Latin through intense study of the language. In third term, students also begin to start classes in Ancient Greek.

Students in Part IA study a carefully designed selection of Latin and Greek texts, in order to develop reading skills in both languages. Students are expected in first year to develop and solidify their understandings of both Greek and Latin. Students on the four-year course have classes to continue their understanding of Latin otherwise, they are educated in the same way as those starting their three-year course.

Part IB allows students to read from a wider variety of texts of ancient authors in both languages. Students also continue with two of the following areas: philosophy, history, art and archaeology, and linguistics.

The final year of the degree is flexible as it allows students to specialise in what interests them the most. Students have the option to specialise in a variety of different ways, as well as being offered courses by other faculties, such as the English faculty’s course on the history of tragedy.

Further information can be found on the Faculty and University websites 

Typical offers require

• A Level: A*AA
• IB: 42 points, with 776 in Higher Level
• Advanced Highers: A1, A2, A2

For other qualifications see the main entrance requirements pages on the University website. 

Subject Requirements

• Required: Latin if applying for the three-year course, Greek may be considered as a substitute if the applicant does not offer Latin. There are no subject requirements for the four-year course.
• Highly recommended: History, Classical Civilisations, English Literature, English Language, and languages

Mature students and those taking other qualifications are encouraged to contact our Admissions Office (at admissions@lucy.cam.ac.uk) to discuss the entry requirements for their qualifications.

Written work

Students are required to submit two pieces of written work.

Assessments

Applicants are required to take a Cambridge Colleges Registered assessment.

Interviews

Interviews allow us to distinguish amongst excellent applicants by assessing the skills and aptitudes essential for successful study in higher education, and your academic qualities – essentially, how do you think?

For 2023 entry, interviews for all applicants, will take place virtually, except for UK-based applications to Trinity College. However, the aims and content will still be the same as in-person interviews.

Each candidate typically has two interviews, lasting between twenty and thirty minutes. In some cases, you will be given preparatory reading beforehand.

In a few subjects, you will be interviewed by more than one College or in the Faculty. You will be notified of this in your interview invitation.

Supracurricular exploration is an important way to expand your knowledge of your subject, explore your interests and develop your skills. Our new webpage contains guidance on supracurricular exploration and a comprehensive source of resources, grouped according to undergraduate degrees at Cambridge. 

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Our Events and Open Days page advertises regular events held by Lucy Cavendish College. If you can, join us for a College Open Day to discuss your application with a member of our admissions team.