icon-symbol-logout-darkest-grey

Faculty of PhilosophyLatin / Classical Philology – Master

The Latin Studies degree programme, more precisely described as Latin Philology, is devoted to the study of Latin texts that have been handed down from antiquity, including the examination of these in terms of their linguistic-literary form as well as their placement within a historical-cultural context. 

Facts & Formalities

DegreeMaster of Arts, Joint Degree
Type of programmeConsecutive
Start of programmeWinter and summer semester
Standard period of study4 semesters
Language(s) of instructionGerman, partially English
Fees and contributions151.05 € / Semester
Application procedureConsecutive master’s programmes with access restriction
Application deadlinesInformation about deadlines can be obtained after you have put together a degree program.
Part-time optionYes
May be studied as a minor subjectYes
International degree programYes

Course Content

The Master’s degree programme in Latin Studies focusses on the study of surviving ancient texts in the Latin language. During the course of the degree programme, students will expand upon previously-acquired knowledge of the Latin language and its literature against the backdrop of literary history, including its context and future influence. Students will gain a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of these texts and a diverse range of interpretive methods, both linguistic and theoretical, as well as obtaining a sense of the interrelationships with related disciplines (e.g. Greek Studies, Modern Literary Studies, Philosophy, Theology, and Cultural Studies). The Master’s degree programme in Latin Studies is intended to provide students with a methodologically-based understanding of texts in Latin, including those of a more specialised nature, against a backdrop of both Roman and Greek literary history, including its context and its future influence. Students will learn to apply advanced scholarly methods and knowledge as well as to be able to perform independent work that conforms to academic standards and to gain an overview of the interrelationships between the various aspects of Latin Studies. This will permit students to convey the relevance of Latin Studies to external parties (including non-academics).

It is mandatory to choose a minor in combination with this Master programme. For further information please refer to the Examination Rules and Regulations.

Course Structure

The structure of the Master’s degree programme is based on that of the preceding Bachelor’s degree programme. Its components include advanced-level practical translation and language courses as well as seminars and lectures. Students may also enrol in courses in the areas of Greek Studies and other related subjects (Ancient History, Archaeology, Philosophy). Towards the end of the degree programme, participation in a research colloquium provides students with the opportunity to determine and present a topic for the Master's thesis. The Master’s degree programme concludes with the Master's thesis and an oral examination. 

International Version

The Master's degree programme Latin Studies can also be studied in the international version in cooperation with the University of Catania, the oldest and largest university in Sicily. The joint degree programme Latin Studies, offered by the universities of Heidelberg and Catania has a standard period of study of 4 semesters of which two semesters must be spent in Heidelberg and two semesters in Catania. Prior to switching between the two universities, students must be able to prove good Italian or German language skills (C1). After completing the Master's examination, students will be awarded the title “Master of Arts” by Heidelberg University and will additionally receive a joint diploma from both universities.