Ancient Culture, Religion and Ethnicity University of British Columbia

Overview

The Ancient Culture, Religion and Ethnicity programme at the University of British Columbia offers a comprehensive exploration of the ancient Mediterranean and Near Eastern worlds from the Bronze Age to Late Antiquity. This interdisciplinary Master of Arts allows students to customise their academic journey by combining rigorous coursework with original thesis research. The curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical study and practical application, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for advanced doctoral research or professional careers.

Why Ancient Culture, Religion and Ethnicity at the University of British Columbia?

Students benefit from the expertise of sixteen full-time faculty members who specialise in diverse fields such as Roman law, Greek mythology, and Hebrew Bible studies. The University of British Columbia provides exceptional facilities, including a dedicated Graduate Reading Room with an exclusive library of ancient texts and a high-tech computer lab equipped with 3D printing and ArcGIS software. Furthermore, the programme offers unique archaeological fieldwork opportunities across international sites in Cyprus, Israel, and Romania, allowing for hands-on experience in the field.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: CAD 9884 per year
• National fee: CAD 5626 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum requires 24 credits of coursework alongside a 6-credit research thesis. Students may also participate in summer field schools for credit and must demonstrate proficiency in a modern research language such as French, German, Italian, or Spanish. Modules may include:

• Ancient Mediterranean and Near Eastern Studies
• Archaeology and Material Culture
• Religion and Mythology
• Ancient Languages
• History and Cultures of the Ancient Mediterranean
• Greek Literature and Philosophy
• Latin Literature
• Jewish Studies
• Christian Origins

Careers with Ancient Culture, Religion and Ethnicity

Graduates of this programme are highly successful in securing positions at prestigious global institutions, including Oxford, Yale, and Toronto. Beyond academia, the skills developed during the course lead to diverse career paths in both the public and private sectors. Former students have established successful careers as teachers, university administrators, and translators. Additionally, the analytical and cultural expertise gained supports roles for creative professionals, bankers, and specialists within the heritage and cultural sectors.