Spanish and Classics MA
Central Area Campus, United Kingdom
MA (Hons) Spanish and Classics
University of Edinburgh
Spanish and Classics
Program Overview: MA Spanish and Classics at Edinburgh
The MA (Hons) Spanish and Classics at the University of Edinburgh is a four-year joint honours programme that combines the study of the Spanish language and Hispanic cultures with the rich intellectual traditions of the ancient Greek and Roman worlds. Studying Spanish and Classics helps you understand the contemporary world while shedding light on the past, offering a uniquely interdisciplinary perspective across centuries of cultural achievement.
This flexible programme enables you to learn at least two languages in their cultural context or to combine studying Spanish with a non-language pathway through ancient worlds. You will be immersed in an extraordinary range of literature, film, poetry, and theatre from across the Spanish-speaking world, while also engaging with classical languages, history, and philosophy.
A defining feature of this programme is the full academic year abroad in Year 3, during which you study or work in a Spanish-speaking country. Classical languages have been taught at Edinburgh since the university's foundation in 1583, and Spanish has been taught here since the early twentieth century, providing a deep tradition of expertise in both disciplines.
Key Program Highlights
- Compulsory year abroad in Year 3, spent studying or working in a Spanish-speaking country to develop advanced language skills and cultural awareness.
- Flexible joint honours structure allowing you to follow a Greek, Latin, or non-language pathway through Classics alongside your Spanish studies.
- Option to broaden your linguistic portfolio with additional languages such as Portuguese, Basque, Catalan, or Italian.
- Access to extensive library holdings including around 27,000 books and 5,000 journals in Spanish, plus the University's Centre for Research Collections.
Curriculum and Modules
The MA (Hons) Spanish and Classics programme is structured across four years, progressing from foundational language and cultural study to advanced honours-level specialisation. The curriculum is designed with significant flexibility, allowing you to tailor your studies to your interests while building expertise in both Spanish and Classics.
Spanish Language (1A/1B)
Year 1 CoreIntensive Spanish language training at beginner (1A) or advanced (1B) level, introducing diverse cultural texts and films from across the Spanish-speaking world alongside grammar and communication skills.
Classics Foundation Courses
Year 1 CoreTwo courses chosen from the Greek and Roman World, Ancient Greek, or Latin, which determine your pathway through Classics study in subsequent years.
Spanish Language and Culture (Year 2)
Year 2 CoreContinued development of written and spoken Spanish skills alongside deeper engagement with Hispanic literary and cultural traditions from Spain and Latin America.
Year Abroad
Year 3 CoreA minimum 30-week placement in a Spanish-speaking country, studying or working, with an e-learning course to prepare for Year 4 and supervised Classics research projects.
Honours Spanish Specialisation
Year 4 HonoursAdvanced specialist courses covering aspects of Spanish and Latin American literature, history, culture, and linguistics at honours level.
Dissertation or Long Essay
Year 4 HonoursAn independent research project building on all the knowledge and skills developed over four years, culminating in a dissertation or extended essay in Spanish or Classics.
Elective Options
Admission Requirements
Entry to the MA (Hons) Spanish and Classics programme is competitive. No prior knowledge of Spanish or classical languages is required, as beginner courses are available in Year 1. All applications and enquiries should be directed through Uni4Edu.
Academic Requirements
- A-LevelsABB (typical offer); no specific A-Level subjects required
- IB DiplomaContact Uni4Edu for current equivalent IB requirements
- SQA HighersAAAA (achievement by end of S5 preferred)
- GPA (US System)3.3-3.5 on a 4.0 scale is generally considered competitive
- Prior Language KnowledgeNo prior Spanish, Greek, or Latin required; beginner and advanced entry points available
English Language Requirements
- IELTS AcademicMinimum overall score of 6.5 with no component below 5.5
- TOEFL iBTMinimum score of 92 with at least 20 in each section
- Cambridge English Advanced (CAE)Minimum grade of 176 with no component below 162
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
The University of Edinburgh offers a range of scholarships for international undergraduate students. These awards are competitive and typically based on academic merit, interview performance, and the quality of your scholarship statement. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on scholarship eligibility and application support.
Edinburgh Global Undergraduate Scholarship
GBP 5,000 per year (tenable for programme duration)Awarded to international fee-status applicants who demonstrate outstanding academic performance. The award is paid directly to students as a contribution towards living costs and is renewable subject to satisfactory academic progress.
School of History, Classics and Archaeology Undergraduate Scholarship
Up to 2 undergraduate scholarships offered to overseas students beginning their studies within the School of History, Classics and Archaeology, which houses the Classics department.
External Funding Opportunities
Varies (GBP 1,000 to full tuition coverage)International students may also be eligible for external scholarships such as the Chevening Scholarship, GREAT Scholarships, and Commonwealth Scholarships. Uni4Edu can help identify the most suitable funding options for your profile.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the MA Spanish and Classics programme develop a highly transferable skill set that is valued across many industries. The combination of advanced language proficiency, intercultural competence, critical analysis, and independent research skills makes you attractive to employers in the UK and internationally. A four-year Master of Arts degree from the University of Edinburgh demonstrates intellectual maturity, resilience, and flexibility.
Potential Career Paths
Sectors and Employers Hiring Graduates
Rankings & Recognition
The University of Edinburgh is consistently ranked among the top 50 universities in the world and is recognised for its strength in arts, humanities, and languages. Founded in 1583, it is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the English-speaking world, with 20 Nobel laureates affiliated with the institution.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| English Language & Literature | QS World Rankings | Top 10 |
| Linguistics | QS World Rankings | Top 10 |
| Arts & Humanities | THE Subject Rankings | Top 30 |
| Classics & Ancient History | The Complete University Guide | Top 15 in UK |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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