Arabic and Classical Studies

Arabic and classical studies is an intellectually ambitious combination that brings together the study of the ancient Greek and Roman worlds with the language and cultures of the Arabic-speaking world. Classical studies gives you access to the literature, philosophy, history, religion and art of antiquity, engaging with works that have shaped the intellectual and cultural life of the West for over two millennia. Arabic opens a parallel and equally rich tradition, connecting you to the literary heritage of the Islamic world, to contemporary societies across the Middle East and North Africa, and to one of the most geopolitically significant linguistic communities on earth.

At the University of St Andrews you will develop language proficiency in Arabic alongside a rigorous engagement with the range and depth of the classical world, from Greek tragedy and the Platonic dialogues to Roman literature, art and the reception of antiquity in later periods. The combination allows for productive comparative analysis across languages, cultures, histories and political contexts, and the intellectual flexibility to move between ancient and modern, European and Middle Eastern frames of reference is a genuine strength. The programme runs over five years full time.

Graduates of this combination bring an unusual breadth of cultural and linguistic knowledge to professional life. Careers in diplomacy, area studies, international organisations, journalism, cultural heritage, education, translation, intelligence and security all draw on the skills and knowledge this degree develops. Classical studies and Arabic together form a combination that is genuinely rare, and the ability to engage credibly with both ancient Western and contemporary Middle Eastern cultural and political contexts is valued by a wide range of employers.

Postgraduate study in classical studies, Middle Eastern studies, international relations or languages and cultures is a natural further route.