Overview

The Classics programme at the University of Otago provides an immersive exploration into the foundational civilisations of Greece and Rome. Students engage with the languages, history, and material culture of the ancient Mediterranean to understand the roots of modern institutions and social thought.

This course of study is highly regarded globally, consistently ranking as a top-tier programme for ancient history and classical research. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing students to pair their interest in the ancient world with other disciplines such as Law, Commerce, or Science through various combined degree options.

Why Classics at University of Otago?

The institution is recognised for its teaching excellence, frequently achieving the highest ratings in national student satisfaction surveys. Students benefit from small class sizes that foster an intimate learning environment and direct engagement with passionate academic staff who are leaders in their respective fields.

A distinctive feature of the programme is the access to the Otago Museum’s extensive teaching collection, which allows students to handle and study genuine Greek and Roman artefacts. Furthermore, the university hosts the only classical archaeology fieldwork programme in the country, offering opportunities for excavations in Spain.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: NZD 41265 per year
• National fee: NZD 9427 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Greek Mythology
• Classical Art and Archaeology: Of Heroes, Gods and Men
• Roman Social History: Gladiators, Sex Workers, and the Enslaved
• Fantasies, Phobias and Families in Graeco-Roman Myth
• Alexander the Great
• Living and Dying in Classical Athens
• Tales of Troy: from Homer to Hollywood
• Roman Republic, from the Kings to Julius Caesar
• Love, Death and the Good Life: Socrates and Plato
• After Alexander: the Struggle and the Chaos
• Ancient Greek Religion: Myth, Ritual and Belief
• Archaeology and the Fall of the Roman Empire
• From Augustus to Nero: Scandal and Intrigue in Imperial Rome
• Power and Politics in Roman and Modern Times
• Sacred Mountains, Unfriendly Seas: Environments in Greek Literature
• Intermediate Greek Authors
• Advanced Greek Authors 1
• Advanced Greek Authors 2
• Intermediate Latin
• Intermediate Latin Authors
• Advanced Latin Authors 1
• Advanced Latin Authors 2

Careers with Classics

Graduates possess versatile transferable skills, including advanced argumentation and clear communication, which are highly sought after by employers in various sectors. Many alumni pursue successful careers in foreign affairs, trade, industry, and local government administration.

The programme also prepares students for specialised roles in museums, art galleries, and the heritage sector. Other common career paths include university teaching, journalism, broadcasting, publishing, and even roles within the computing and design industries.