Studying
Departmental ECTS (European Course Credit Transfer System) coordinator:
Jaana Vaahtera
e-mail: jaana.vaahtera(apud)utu.fi
tel: +358 2 333 6247
Studies in Classical Languages and Culture introduce students to the intellectual and material culture of Classical Greece and Rome, especially of Greek and Latin language and literature. Research and instruction aim to add to our knowledge of the origins of European culture, with special focus on the later impact and importance of classical culture.
A long-term, sustained interest in research is a requirement for studies in this field. The broad-based instruction (Greek Philology, Latin Philology, and Classical Archaeology) begins with courses in Latin and Greek language and literature, and in the material heritage of Classical Culture, proceeding then to the study of separate aspects of culture - not forgetting the inherent value of research in Latin and Greek languages. Students of Classical Languages and Culture will find work as researchers and teachers, or in fields where broad training in the Humanities is required.
Students can compile their degree studies from the subjects in Classical Languages and Culture. (See structure of studies .) It is, however, recommended that some other field of study within the Humanities is chosen as a minor subject. These minor subjects can range from the field of linguistics (e.g. General Linguistics, Romance languages), to History or to Arts and Cultural Sciences (e.g. General Literature, Archaeology). Correspondingly, studies in Classical Languages and Culture are an excellent choice as a minor subject for students studying languages, History, or Art and Cultural Sciences. Individual courses can be taken separately and included in the degree as a part of the "Elective Studies"; such courses include "Introduction to Classical philology", "Basic Greek" and "Basic Latin".
Language studies begin with Basic Greek or Latin, unless the student has obtained exemption by a translation test. After the basic language courses, lectures and courses on Latin and Greek texts can be taken.
Basic Studies
Basic Studies aim to provide students with initial knowledge of research in the field of Classics, to familiarise them with central features of classical culture and to equip them with a level of knowledge in classical Greek or Latin grammar and linguistics which will enable them, with the help of aids, to understand fairly simple Greek or Latin prose and poetry.
Intermediate Studies
The Intermediate Studies module aims to deepen students' knowledge of Greek or Latin grammar and linguistics and proficiency in Greek or Latin, to broaden their knowledge of Greek or Roman culture and literature, and to teach the use of research methods and sources, and an ability to compose scholarly texts. Written exercise classes can be taken after the completion of the Basic Studies module.
Advanced Studies
The Advanced Studies module deepens the knowledge and skills acquired through the Intermediate Studies while aiming to equip students with skills necessary for independent, scholarly research on Greek or Latin sources. Master's Thesis is an independent part of Advanced Studies.
Classical Archaeology
Classical Archaeology is a subject of general educational value for students who plan to work in some cultural field. Classical Archaeology is an excellent choice as a minor subject particularly for those who study Classical Languages, Cultural History, Finnish and Comparative Archaeology, and History of Art. It can be taken by all who are interested in the heritage of classical cultures, classical material culture, and prehistory of the Mediterranean area. Basic and Intermediate Studies modules are available in Classical Archaeology, and it is open as a minor to all students in the Faculty of Humanities.
The Basic Studies module provides students with preliminary knowledge of the Ancient world and culture, and of the basic archaeological terminology. The Intermediate Studies module comprises compulsory and optional courses. Compulsory courses will provide students with knowledge of tangible research sources and their use as historical documents. Students will familiarise themselves with the major sites and artefacts of Classical Archeology, and with archeological methods in theory and practice. Historical and archaeological sources in optional courses will highlight different aspects of Ancient Culture.
Courses usually require passing an examination based on lectures or required reading. Apart from the lectures, the language of tuition is usually negotiable with the instructor. As a rule, the student is free to choose the order of courses within the module. The grade given for the module is the average of the course grades.
POSTGRADUATE STUDIES IN CLASSICAL LANGUAGES AND CULTURE
Postgraduate degrees, the Licentiate in Philosophy and Doctor of Philosophy, are available for students of Classical Languages and Culture. Postgraduate students will attend a postgraduate seminar and write a thesis. The doctoral dissertation is written and published in a major language. Postgraduate students will specialise in one field of Classical studies, and take courses in the subject complementary to their research. This subject is often either Latin or Greek.
The research seminar in Classical Languages and Culture will usually meet two or three times per year. Additional meetings are arranged for the presentation of completed theses.