Course summary

The 20th century witnessed dramatic changes in the fortunes of the countries of Central & Eastern Europe. War, revolution and widespread social & economic change resulted in a tumultuous period in the history of the region. The collapse of communism unleashed a process of profound social change that continues today in the rise of populism in Central and South-East Europe, the Russo-Ukrainian war and instability in the Caucasus & Central Asia. From the Baltic to the Balkans and from Berlin to Vladivostok, we chart the key issues in this crucial area. Classics involves the study of the literature, history, art and material culture of ancient Greece and Rome. Study of Latin and/or Greek language is possible at any level. Why study this course at the University of Glasgow? You will gain valuable insights into issues of global importance. Recent events, particularly the Russia-Ukraine war – the largest conflict in Europe since the Second World War – have underscored the necessity of understanding the region not just for regional security, but also for wider European and global security. For over 75 years, Central & East European Studies at the University of Glasgow has been at the forefront of theoretically-informed, methodologically-rigorous, and practically-relevant research relating to the countries of the Baltic States, the Balkans, the Caucasus, Central & Eastern Europe, Russia and Eurasia. The University hosts the Centre for Russian, Central & East European Studies which is a national hub for scholars studying the region. It is home to the prestigious Europe-Asia Studies journal and the University’s Russian and East European library has a large and well-established collection. It is not compulsory but you may wish to study one of the following languages: Czech, Polish, Russian, or Ukrainian. You will have the opportunity to visit archaeological sites and museums in Italy and Greece as part of your programme. If you progress to Honours you will have the opportunity to spend up to three weeks (usually during the summer vacation after year 3) visiting archaeological sites and museums in Italy, Greece or another part of the ancient world. Financial support for this visit is available to all Single Honours students. You may also spend year 3 studying at universities in Europe (for example, in Athens or Rome), Australia, New Zealand or North America Career Prospects? Graduates have developed careers in the European Commission, the Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office, the Scottish Government, UK Department for Business & Trade, government ministries across Europe, government embassies, international development & non-governmental organisations, journalism, education, cultural industries, banks and the business community. The eastward enlargement of the EU and NATO, as well as ongoing developments in Russia, Ukraine, the other former Soviet states and the Balkans, mean there is a high demand for specialists in the field. As a Classics graduate you will be able to enter many different careers, from the heritage/cultural sector and teaching to consultancy and financial services. Classics graduates also follow careers in fields such as publishing, law or accountancy; many decide to stay in academia and pursue postgraduate degrees. Our recent graduates have been employed as: experts in museums and galleries librarians or archivists teachers civil servants in IT/software development.