Classics is the study of the languages Ancient Greek and Latin, which have been taught at the University of Melbourne since its very foundation and have been a core element of higher education for many centuries. The overall objective of the Classics program is to introduce students to key literary texts from classical antiquity (including history, drama, oratory, philosophy, epic, and lyric poetry), and to enable students to discover the many important contributions which reading ancient texts in the original languages can make to understanding both the ancient world and the Western tradition. Knowledge of Ancient Greek and Latin is also very useful for research and training in such related disciplines as biochemistry, medicine, the history and philosophy of science, archaeology, Biblical studies, history, philosophy, art history, Romance language studies, English literary studies, and music. Students who major in Classics may progress through one or both of these languages from beginners level (entry point 1) and are encouraged to take subjects in both languages. Students who have completed one of these languages at VCE may begin studying the language at entry point 3 and are required to commence studying the other classical language at level 1 (entry point 1). Explore ancient cultures through the languages of Ancient Greek and Latin by reading key literary texts from ancient Greece and Rome. Journey through classical antiquity (history, drama, philosophy, oratory, epic and lyric poetry) and discover the influences that echo through to modern times. THE PERFECT COMPLEMENTARY MAJOR Classics underpins and adds depth to understanding of other studies: from medicine, and archaeology through to philosophy, music and English literary studies. Your course structure The Bachelor of Arts requires the successful completion of 24 subjects (300-points), including at least one major. Most students study eight subjects each year (usually four subjects in each semester) for three years full-time, or the part-time equivalent. Most Arts majors require 100 points of study (usually eight subjects) for attainment. This means out of your 300-point program, you have the opportunity to achieve two majors in your course. Completing your major A major in Classics includes: 25 points (usually two subjects) of level 1 subjects (usually first year) 37.5 points (usually three subjects) of level 2 subjects (usually second year) 37.5 points (usually three subjects) of level 3 subjects (usually third year) Your major study must comprise a minimum of 62.5 points (usually five subjects) of Ancient Greek and/or Latin subjects, and may include a maximum of 37.5 points (usually three subjects) taken from the Ancient World Studies major. Note: Students completing a major or minor in Classics will need to complete a certain distribution of compulsory and elective subjects based on their entry point. For more information on required subjects, view the Handbook entry for this course. BREADTH STUDIES Breadth is a unique feature of the Melbourne Model. It gives you the chance to explore subjects outside of arts, developing new perspectives and learning to collaborate with others who have different strengths and interests just as you will in your future career. Some of our students use breadth to explore creative interests or topics they have always been curious about. Others used breadth to improve their career prospects by complementing their major with a language, communication skills or business expertise.