Classics and Persian

Classics and Persian is an unusual and rewarding combination that pairs the ancient languages and cultures of Greece and Rome with one of the world's great literary languages of the Islamic world. Greek and Latin literature is some of the most moving and thought-provoking writing produced in any world culture. To study it in the original languages is to enter the thought-world of two vibrant societies that have profoundly influenced cultures around the world.

The MA (Hons) in Classics will develop your Latin and Greek language skills alongside skills of literary and cultural analysis that are powerful tools for understanding complex texts and problems in today's world. Persian adds access to a literary tradition stretching from the classical poets Firdausi, Rumi, and Hafiz to modern Iranian literature, a tradition of extraordinary depth and range.

At the University of St Andrews, this four-year full-time programme is taught within departments with genuine research strength in both classical languages and Middle Eastern studies, ensuring that both sides of the combination are taught to a high standard. You will develop linguistic competence in Latin, Ancient Greek, and Persian, reading texts in each language while also engaging with the historical, cultural, and intellectual contexts that give them their meaning. A year abroad is part of the programme, giving you the opportunity to deepen your engagement with one or more of these language traditions in another country.

With a typical entry tariff of 200 UCAS points, this is a highly competitive programme at one of the UK's most distinguished universities. The combination of classical and Persian linguistic expertise creates a rare and professionally distinctive academic profile. Graduates pursue careers in academic research, education, the civil service, journalism, diplomacy, publishing, heritage, translation, international organisations, and intelligence, with a depth of cultural and linguistic knowledge that few other degrees can provide.

Many graduates continue to postgraduate study in classics, Persian studies, medieval studies, or comparative literature.