Universität Fribourg Course offerings

Profile of the study programme

The master programme in Greek studies offers both general training and specialisation. Building on the bachelor's degree, it broadens students' Greek language skills, also enhancing their knowledge of the culture and literature of classical antiquity and giving them additional insights into the continuity of classical antiquity through the centuries of Late Antiquity and the Byzantine period. Pride of place is given to the reading and interpretation of texts in their original language and their reception in European intellectual life.

Fribourg profile
According to the special focus of the University of Fribourg in the field of classical studies, particular emphasis is placed on the reception of Greek classical antiquity during the imperial period, Greek culture and literature in Late Antiquity, and, in collaboration with the Institute of Mediaeval Studies (Institut d'études médiévales/Mediävistisches Institut), the Byzantine Renaissance. Students also study the influence of literary forms and ancient mythology on modern literature in partnership with the Institute of General and Comparative Literature (Institut de littérature générale et comparée/Institut für Allgemeine und Vergleichende Literaturwissenschaft). The practical workshop gives students the opportunity to learn the basics of scientific research and do hands-on training in areas such as papyrology, palaeography, codicology and text edition. In line with University of Fribourg's language policy, students of Greek studies have the possibility of taking their course in two languages (French and German).

Learning outcomes and career openings
On completing their course, students will have acquired a command of the Greek language and in-depth knowledge of Greek literature and culture. They will be capable of translating a Greek text, analysing it grammatically and stylistically, placing it in its literary, historical and cultural context and establishing links with modern literature. For a given problem, they will have acquired the methodological skills allowing them to draw up a pertinent bibliography, search for sources, analyse them critically and in detail, put forward a summary of the issues and give an oral and/or written presentation of the results of their research. Thanks to their practical training, they will be capable of working on original documents (papyri, manuscripts, etc.) and producing a text edition.

The principal career openings for students of Greek studies are:

• Teaching Greek at secondary school level I and II;
• An academic or scientific career in classical studies;
• Public administration and cultural policy;
• Administrative posts in scientific bodies;
• Private sector (human resources).