Ancient Egypt: Foundations
Step back more than 4,500 years to discover how Ancient Egypt emerged from early Nile settlements into one of the world’s earliest and most influential civilisations. This engaging introductory course explores the foundations of Egyptian history, culture and society, from geography and political power to monumental architecture and everyday life.
Through illustrated lectures and guided discussion, you will examine how the Nile shaped daily life, how the first pharaohs established authority, and how pyramids, temples and burial sites reflected religious belief and royal power. You will gain a deeper understanding of the people behind the monuments, including farmers, artisans, scribes, labourers and rulers.
Course Content
- Session 1: The Nile and the Birth of Egypt — agriculture, settlement, environmental foundations and early organised society.
- Session 2: The Rise of the Pharaohs — the unification of Upper and Lower Egypt, divine kingship and early dynasties.
- Session 3: The Age of Pyramids — the Old Kingdom, pyramid building, symbolism, construction and burial complexes.
- Session 4: Society and Daily Life — social hierarchy, work, culture and the lives of farmers, artisans, scribes and labourers.
Schedule & Pricing
- Course dates: 4 August 2026 to 25 August 2026.
- Time: 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM, delivered online via Zoom.
- Price: $179 for the Online via Zoom ticket.
Additional Information
- No prior knowledge is required.
- The course is delivered in an accessible lecture and discussion-based format.
- Zoom access details will be provided with your enrolment confirmation.
Continue Your Learning
After completing this course, you may wish to continue with Ancient Egypt: Gods, Power and Legacy, exploring Egyptian religion, hieroglyphs and later dynasties in greater depth. A 15% bundle discount is available when enrolling in both courses together, applied automatically at checkout.
Details
You will learn
- How the Nile River shaped Ancient Egyptian civilisation, agriculture and culture.
- Key stages in early Egyptian history, including unification, pharaohs and political power.
- The social, religious and architectural significance of pyramids, temples and daily life.
You will get
- Four accessible online lecture and discussion sessions.
- Clear introductory context for understanding Ancient Egyptian history and society.
- A learning pathway toward further study of Egyptian religion, hieroglyphs and legacy.
Appropriate for
History enthusiasts, lifelong learners, archaeology and mythology fans, travellers planning to visit Egypt, and anyone curious about pharaohs, pyramids and Ancient Egyptian civilisation.
Preparation
What to bring
- A device with a stable internet connection.
- Zoom access details provided after enrolment.
- A notebook for personal notes and reflections.
What to wear
Your Teacher
Sydney Community College
38 reviewsSydney Community College is a registered charity with a voluntary Board of Directors.
The College has a mission to offer innovative continuing adult education and training programmes that support individual efforts and facilitate sustainable social change.
We do this by:
- Providing quality continuing adult education opportunities for people to build practical and theoretical skills and develop knowledge;
- Leveraging from and developing community capacity and inclusivity;
- Developing innovative affordable and accessible skills training programmes;
- Partnering with like organisations to deliver learning opportunities for disadvantaged individuals and communities;
- Partnering with all levels of government to deliver education policy objectives.
Cancellations & Refunds
If the organiser cancels the class:
You are entitled to a full refund.
If you can't attend the class:
You’re welcome to send someone in your place.
OR
- A refund can be requested 10 days before class starts. An admin fee of AU$45.00 applies.
Terms & Conditions
At Sydney Community College, we know that plans can change unexpectedly. Whether it’s a shift in your schedule, a family emergency, or just a change of heart, we want to support you in the fairest way possible.
At the same time, we’re a not-for-profit organisation that commits resources to running each class—so last-minute cancellations can significantly impact our ability to offer quality, affordable programs.
That’s why we’ve created a simple, transparent policy that balances your need for flexibility with our need to plan and deliver courses sustainably. Our cancellation policy offers two clear options, depending on when you notify us:
Cancel More Than 10 Days Before the Course Starts – You can choose to receive a full refund, minus a $45 administration fee OR a non-refundable credit note valid for 12 months for the full value you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College.
Option 2: Cancel Within 10 Days of the Course Starting - You’ll receive a credit note valid for 12 months for 50% of the course fee you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College.
Please note that both refund and credit options are only available before the course begins. Once the course has started—or if you decide to withdraw after it has commenced—no refunds or credits can be issued. If you need to cancel your enrolment, just email us and we’ll take care of it based on the timelines above.
Have more questions about this class?
Tags:
Ancient Egypt: Foundations
Book soon! 1 people viewed this class.
Be the first to know when this class has new dates! Add your email to the waitlist.
Your Next Adventure Starts Here
Join thousands of learners exploring new skills and passions. Whether online or in person, our classes are designed to inspire, connect, and bring joy to learning. Start your journey today!
Explore classes