Latin Studies (Bachelor of Arts, B.A.)
The Bachelor's degree programme in Latin at Humboldt-Universit?t imparts language proficiency and reflection, deepens the study of Latin literature as well as Roman culture and history, and develops key qualifications for diverse career prospects.
Please choose
- Major Field
- Minor Field
Table of Contents
At a glance
Course structure and content
The Bachelor's programme in Latin focuses on the core areas of language proficiency and reflection, an intensive engagement with Latin literature – especially that of the late Republic and the early Imperial period – and its reception in both ancient and post-classical times. In addition, you will acquire comprehensive knowledge of ancient culture and history, particularly Roman history.
At the same time, the programme fosters the development of essential key skills. These include networked and multifactorial thinking, strategies for efficiently acquiring information through the interpretation of complex texts and systems, the ability to abstract historically, interdisciplinary communication skills, strong research abilities, and the capacity to present complex information in a structured and transparent manner.
Furthermore, you will be trained to combine precision and attention to detail with a high degree of abstract thinking and to develop strong intellectual resilience.
Periods of studying abroad are strongly recommended, and ‘learning agreements’ may be concluded for this purpose.
Major field of study in Latin Studies (120 CP)
Mandatory Modules (80 CP)
| Module 1 | Methods and Fundamentals of Latin Studies | 5 CP |
| Module 2 | Language Training – Basic Module | 6 CP |
| Module 3 | Introduction to Latin Literature I – Prose | 7 CP |
| Module 4 | Introduction to Latin Literature II – Poetry | 10 CP |
| Module 5 | Language Training – Advanced Module I | 6 CP |
| Module 6 | Language Training – Advanced Module II | 5 CP |
| Module 7 | Latin Literature III – Prose | 11 CP |
| Module 8 | Latin Literature IV – Poetry | 10 CP |
| Module 9 | Latin Literature V | 10 CP |
| Module 10 | Bachelor’s thesis | 10 CP |
Mandatory elective Modules (20 CP)
| Module 11 | In-Depth Studies/Focusing | 10 CP |
| Module 12 | Practical Orientation OR | 10 CP |
| Module 13 | Internship | 10 CP |
General elective modules (20 CP)
In addition to specialised study, students acquire subject-specific, non-specialist and interdisciplinary key qualifications of 20 CP. The general elective modules can be chosen from the module catalogues of other subjects or central institutions.
Special features
You do not need to provide proof of language proficiency for enrollment. However, for admission to the degree program, you must demonstrate Latin proficiency equivalent to the Latinum certificate (Latinum). If you do not possess this certificate, a preparatory course will be required, which will not count towards the standard period of study. You can complete Module 1 concurrently with the preparatory course.
If you wish to pursue a Master of Education, you will need the Graecum certificate as an admission requirement.
At Humboldt-Universit?t zu Berlin, there is an unusually large number of subjects dealing with classical antiquity. This continues a tradition that dates back to the founding of the university in 1810, and gives it new life.
Under the umbrella of the August Boeckh Antiquity Center (with the ‘Transformation of Classical Antiquity’ special research area as the core), Latin Studies cooperates with Greek Studies, Ancient History, Classical Philology, Philosophy, Theology, Cultural Studies, Modern Literature Studies and Linguistics, and the History of Law and Science.
Latin Studies draws its conception of itself from participation in current literary and cultural studies theoretical debates. Its research focuses particularly on the following fields: Augustan, Neronian and Flavian poetry, historiography, rhetoric, late antiquity, cultural studies, the study of metre, translation studies, linguistics and new media (particularly the KIRKE internet portal).
In addition, Berlin contains a wealth of research institutes unique in the German-speaking world - the neighbouring universities of FU Berlin and University of Potsdam, the Berlin-Brandenburg Academy of Sciences and Humanities, the German Archaeological Institute and the museums of antiquity - which work in synergistic exchange. The benefits of the location positively impact the bachelor’s course. The Humboldtian ideal of an organisational connection between research and teaching also forms part of the new course’s new organisational form.
Subject-specific admission and enrolment rules
Career opportunities & prospects
With a Bachelor of Arts degree in Latin, you can study for a Master's degree in Classical Philology.
Find out more in the course catalogue or via the database Hochschulkompass nationwide.
The degree program qualifies graduates for careers in fields such as publishing, media, cultural management, museums, libraries and archives, continuing education, and business, and may also prepare them for a teacher training master's program. It also lays the foundation for future academics.
To become a teacher, a Master's degree, followed by an induction service as a trainee teacher (Referendariat) and a final examination (state examination) are required after completing the Bachelor's degree.
More information on career prospects and alternatives can be found in the Berufenet database.
Course Advisory Service and recognition of credits
Contact information for the institute
Department of Classical Philology
Universit?ts-Hauptgeb?ude, Unter den Linden 6, 10099 Berlin