Oxford – Classics & Portuguese

This degree offers the study of ancient and modern languages together, allowing the student to learn how the former has influenced the latter. As on the Classics and English course, comparing texts from different eras is a major component.

The degree is split into two courses: Course I, for those who know Latin or Greek, which is four years long; and Course II, for those who have not studied the languages, which takes five years. You also have two options, either dividing your time half and half, Classics and Modern Languages or focusing more on Classics.

Whichever course is chosen, students go on a year abroad as part of their degree. Students might want to work in a language school, find an internship, or continue their studies at a university. With the opportunities to become fluent in a language and expand intellectual horizons, many alumni consider this the high point of the course. Numerous grants are available, from college and the Faculty, for overseas travel. This is a very small Joint Honours course with an intake of 5 students a year and a high success rate with 36% of applicants getting an offer over the last 3 years.

An A Level (or equivalent) in a modern language is mandatory. Latin or Greek A Level (or equivalent) is required for Course I but not Course II.