The master’s program in Classics focuses on Late Antiquity, the important transitional period between the ancient and medieval worlds. By its complexity, the period favours a multidisciplinary approach that includes history, historiography, paleography, early Christianity and literature. The University of Ottawa is the only university in Canada that offers a master’s program in Classics dedicated to the study of Late Antiquity.
Classics - Graduate Studies
Program overview (on hold 2026–2027)
Level
Main field
LANGUAGE
NOTES
Why choose this program
Studying Classical Studies is an excellent opportunity to explore the civilizations, cultures, languages, and ideas that shaped the ancient world and influenced the development of Western society. The program focuses on Late Antiquity, a fascinating period of transition between Antiquity and the Middle Ages, and is unique in Canada in its specialized approach to this field. Through an interdisciplinary curriculum that combines history, literature, historiography, paleography, archaeology, religion, and early Christianity, you will develop a deep understanding of the ancient Mediterranean world and its lasting impact. The program also offers the opportunity to study ancient languages such as Latin, Greek, Coptic, Syriac, and Ethiopic, while strengthening your research, critical thinking, academic writing, and analytical skills. Whether you plan to pursue doctoral studies or a professional career, the program provides a strong intellectual foundation and specialized expertise in a rich and dynamic field of study.
Program structure
Browse program options
We offer a master’s program leading to the degree of Master of Arts in Classical Studies which comprises one main field: Late Antiquity (A.D. 200-700).The objective of this program is to prepare the students for further study in the field of Late Antiquity, the important transitional period between Antiquity and the Middle Ages. The Department also offers the possibility of studying Coptic, Syriac and Ethiopic (in addition to Latin and Greek). Candidates will acquire a thorough background that will enable them to pursue doctoral studies.
The program aims to refine critical and scholarly skills and to broaden the knowledge of its graduates in certain areas. The ability to conduct detailed research, to argue coherently, to write an academic paper, and other skills learned can be applied in careers outside academia. Several graduates find positions in local or federal government, where their training at the MA level is clearly valued.
The Department offers a collaborative program in Medieval and Renaissance Studies at the MA level.
Admission Requirements for Classical Studies
After your studies
After completing graduate studies in Classical Studies, you can pursue careers in research, education, museums, archives, cultural heritage institutions, libraries, publishing, or public service. The program develops advanced skills in historical analysis, critical thinking, academic research, writing, and the interpretation of complex texts and sources. Graduates are well prepared for doctoral studies and academic careers, but also for positions in government, cultural organizations, and other sectors that value strong analytical, communication, and research abilities. With specialized expertise in Late Antiquity and the ancient world, graduates contribute to the preservation, study, and promotion of historical and cultural knowledge in a variety of professional and scholarly settings.
Tuition and fees
Student experience
Student association of the faculty of arts (SAFA)
SAFA represents the interests of undergraduate students of the Faculty of Arts within the UOSU, the Faculty, the University, the community, and the provincial and federal governments. The students’ association also works to foster a sense of community through social, academic, and cultural events, while at the same time offering a variety of services to its members.
Religious and Classics Graduate Studies Association
The RSGSA is your Graduate Student Organization! We represent the academic and social needs of the Religious Studies and Classics Graduate students in the wider context of uOttawa.
The RSGSA also organizes social events, such as movie and trivia nights, coffee hours, and friendly competitions, to foster a community spirit within the Department, and it also keeps our fellow students informed of important issues. We send out emails to inform our members of upcoming events and changes within the department.
The RSGSA also organizes social events, such as movie and trivia nights, coffee hours, and friendly competitions, to foster a community spirit within the Department, and it also keeps our fellow students informed of important issues. We send out emails to inform our members of upcoming events and changes within the department.
Study trip
For several years now the Classics sector has offered a study trip in the spring to various regions of importance in the Graeco-Roman world. These trips, which take in many remarkable classical sites, usually take place in May and have proved very popular. The Religious Studies sector has also organised trips to India, which likewise have proved popular.
Contact us
Department of Classics and Religious Studies
Desmarais Building, 10th Floor
55 Laurier Ave. East,
Ottawa ON Canada K1N 6N5
Map
Tel.: 613-562-5714
Fax: 613-562-5991
Secretaire.Etud.anc.Religions-Classics.Religion.Secretary@uOttawa.ca
Office hours
Monday to Friday
8:45 a.m. to 12 p.m.
1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
(June to August: closed at 4 p.m.)