Academic Programmes

ECTS Credit-Bearing Courses

The Academic Programmes at Copernicus Academia are designed as structured courses of study that combine disciplinary depth with a broader intellectual horizon. While rooted in established academic traditions, the programmes are organized to support both progression and coherence, allowing participants to develop specialized competencies without losing sight of the wider contexts in which knowledge is formed and applied.

In contrast to the Liberal Studies track, which emphasizes orientation across disciplines, the Academic Programmes offer more focused engagement within defined subject areas. Each course is built around a clear curriculum, guided reading, and systematic assessment, and is aligned with European standards for higher education through the allocation of ECTS credits.

Courses are typically offered as one- or two-semester modules corresponding to 5 or 10 ECTS credits. A one-semester course (5 ECTS) is designed to introduce core concepts and methods within a given field, while a two-semester course (10 ECTS) allows for deeper specialization and sustained engagement with primary material and analytical approaches.

Teaching formats include lectures, text-based seminars, and supervised assignments. Participants are expected to engage actively with the material through reading, discussion, and written or oral work. Assessment is structured to reflect both knowledge acquisition and the development of analytical and communicative skills.

Taken together, the Academic Programmes provide a framework for rigorous academic study within a flexible and accessible format. They are suited both for participants seeking formalized learning with measurable outcomes and for those wishing to pursue intellectual interests at a higher academic level.

Programmes

AP · 101

Latin

Course Format: Two semesters  ·  10 ECTS

The Latin course offers a structured introduction to the language of ancient Rome, with emphasis on both grammatical competence and textual understanding. The course combines systematic language instruction with the reading of selected classical texts, enabling participants to engage directly with Latin sources in their original form.

Over the two semesters, participants are introduced to core elements of Latin morphology and syntax, progressing from basic sentence structures to more complex constructions. In the second part of the course, increasing emphasis is placed on reading and interpreting authentic texts, with attention to style, genre, and historical context.

The course also provides insight into the cultural and intellectual world in which Latin functioned, highlighting its role as a medium of literature, administration, and scholarly communication across centuries.

Course Materials

Participants will work with a structured Latin grammar, supplemented by exercises and selected readings from classical authors. Texts are presented in annotated form to support comprehension and analysis. Additional reference materials are provided as needed.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

  • Understand and apply core principles of Latin grammar and syntax
  • Translate moderately complex Latin texts into English
  • Analyse linguistic structures within their textual context
  • Demonstrate awareness of the cultural and historical background of Latin literature

Assessment

Assessment consists of a written examination testing grammatical knowledge and translation skills. In addition, participants complete a written assignment involving the translation and brief analysis of a selected text. An oral component may be included, focusing on translation and interpretation.

AP · 102

Classical Greek

Course Format: Two semesters  ·  10 ECTS

The Classical Greek course provides a structured introduction to the language of ancient Greece, focusing on both linguistic competence and textual engagement. The course combines systematic study of grammar with guided reading of selected texts, enabling participants to approach Greek literature in its original form.

The first semester introduces the foundations of Greek morphology and syntax, including verb systems, nominal inflection, and basic sentence structures. The second semester builds on this foundation through the reading of adapted and, gradually, authentic texts, with attention to linguistic nuance and interpretive context.

In addition to language acquisition, the course offers insight into the intellectual and cultural world of ancient Greece, highlighting the role of Greek as a medium of philosophy, historiography, and literature.

Course Materials

Participants will work with a standard introductory grammar and exercise book, supplemented by selected passages from classical authors. Texts are provided in annotated form to support comprehension and analysis. Reference materials and vocabulary aids are included.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

  • Understand and apply key principles of Classical Greek grammar
  • Translate and interpret moderately complex Greek texts
  • Analyse syntactic and morphological structures
  • Recognize the cultural and historical context of Greek literature

Assessment

Assessment consists of a written examination focusing on grammar and translation. Participants also complete a written assignment involving translation and short commentary on a selected text. An oral examination may be offered as a supplement.

AP · 103

Classical Civilisation

Course Format: One semester  ·  5 ECTS

The Classical Civilisation course offers an introduction to the societies of ancient Greece and Rome, focusing on their political structures, cultural expressions, and intellectual traditions. Rather than concentrating on language, the course examines the classical world through texts in translation, material culture, and historical analysis.

Key topics include the development of the polis and the Roman Republic, religion and mythology, literary genres, and everyday life. The course emphasizes the diversity within the classical world and its long-lasting influence on later cultural and intellectual developments.

Course Materials

Materials include translated primary texts, historical overviews, and selected thematic readings. Visual and archaeological sources are incorporated where relevant to provide a broader perspective on ancient societies.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

  • Describe key features of Greek and Roman societies
  • Analyse primary sources in translation
  • Understand major cultural and political developments
  • Relate classical antiquity to later historical periods

Assessment

Assessment is based on a written assignment (approx. 2,500–3,000 words) focusing on a selected theme or source. An oral examination may be chosen as an alternative.

AP · 104

Literature

Course Format: One semester  ·  5 ECTS

The Literature course introduces participants to the study of literary texts across genres and periods, with emphasis on interpretation, form, and context. The course explores how literature reflects and shapes human experience, addressing themes such as identity, conflict, memory, and meaning.

Participants engage with a selection of texts drawn from different historical periods and cultural contexts. The course combines close reading with broader analytical perspectives, enabling participants to develop both interpretive sensitivity and critical awareness.

Course Materials

Materials include primary literary texts, supplemented by selected critical and contextual readings. Texts are provided in accessible editions, and guidance is given on methods of literary analysis.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

  • Analyse literary texts with attention to form and content
  • Apply basic concepts of literary criticism
  • Interpret texts within their historical and cultural contexts
  • Develop coherent written arguments about literature

Assessment

Assessment consists of a written essay (approx. 2,500–3,000 words) analysing one or more texts from the course. An oral examination may be offered as an alternative.

AP · 201

Mathematics

Course Format: Two semesters  ·  10 ECTS

The Mathematics course provides an introduction to fundamental mathematical concepts and methods, with emphasis on logical reasoning and problem-solving. The course covers core areas such as algebra, functions, and introductory calculus, while also addressing the conceptual foundations of mathematics.

Rather than focusing solely on technique, the course aims to develop an understanding of mathematical structures and the principles underlying formal reasoning. Connections to historical developments and applications are included where relevant.

Course Materials

Participants will work with a structured textbook, supplemented by problem sets and explanatory notes. Additional materials may be provided to support conceptual understanding and practice.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

  • Apply fundamental mathematical methods to solve problems
  • Understand key concepts in algebra and analysis
  • Demonstrate logical reasoning and structured argumentation
  • Recognize the role of mathematics in broader contexts

Assessment

Assessment consists of a written examination focused on problem-solving and conceptual understanding. Participants may also complete a written assignment addressing a selected topic or set of problems.

AP · 202

Law & Society

Course Format: One semester  ·  5 ECTS

The Law & Society course examines the relationship between legal systems and the societies in which they operate. It introduces participants to basic legal concepts while exploring how law reflects, shapes, and responds to social, political, and economic conditions.

Topics include the nature of legal authority, the structure of legal systems, rights and obligations, and the role of law in regulating social relations. The course emphasizes both normative and empirical perspectives on law.

Course Materials

Materials include introductory legal texts, case excerpts, and selected readings from legal theory and sociology of law. Sources are chosen to illustrate both doctrinal and contextual aspects of legal systems.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

  • Understand fundamental legal concepts and structures
  • Analyse the relationship between law and society
  • Interpret legal texts and cases at an introductory level
  • Reflect on the role of law in contemporary issues

Assessment

Assessment is based on a written assignment (approx. 2,500–3,000 words) addressing a legal or socio-legal question. An oral examination may be offered as an alternative.

AP · 203

Communication

Course Format: One semester  ·  5 ECTS

The Communication course focuses on the principles and practices of effective communication in academic and professional contexts. It addresses both written and oral communication, with emphasis on clarity, structure, and audience awareness.

Participants work with different forms of communication, including essays, presentations, and analytical texts. The course also introduces basic rhetorical concepts and strategies for argumentation.

Course Materials

Materials include instructional texts, example analyses, and practical exercises. Participants receive feedback on their own work as part of the learning process.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

  • Communicate ideas clearly in written and oral form
  • Structure arguments in a coherent and persuasive manner
  • Adapt communication to different contexts and audiences
  • Reflect on their own communicative practices

Assessment

Assessment consists of a written assignment and an oral presentation. Emphasis is placed on clarity, structure, and the effective communication of ideas.

Admission Requirements

Academic programmes require a completed secondary education or equivalent. Applicants should submit a brief statement of purpose and, where applicable, evidence of prior relevant study. All instruction is in English.

Credit Transfer

Credits awarded by Copernicus Academia are issued in accordance with the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System. Students seeking to transfer credits to another institution should consult their home institution's policies on credit recognition.