Course overview
This course examines the political, social, economic and cultural history of ancient Greece and Rome. It does not merely handle facts and events, but what lies behind them and what makes them significant and exciting: progress and decline, labour and leisure, revolution and reconciliation, conquest, exploitation and resistance. No previous knowledge of Greek or Latin is required and, except in designated language modules, all texts are read in translation. The study of either Greek or Latin is optional.
Year one
You will study two core survey modules which give you an integrated introduction to the history and culture of Greece and Rome and their reception, along with three modules going into more depth on methods, sources and approaches in the areas of history, literature or art - each building up skills in different types of assessment. You are warmly encouraged to begin or continue Latin or Greek.
Year two
Your second year combines a wide range of optional modules exploring ancient history and society with an extended source study to prepare you for third-year dissertation work. Our independent module ISYP encourages an innovative (often creative) project on your choice of subject. You also have the option to continue or start learning Greek or Latin.
Year three
You will develop and pursue your own interests through a 10,000-word dissertation on any area of ancient history and combine this with a special subject module which involves detailed, in-depth study of a particular topic (taught in seminars). Optional modules, or continued language work, complete the year.
Entry requirements
A levels: AAB
English language requirements
IELTS 7.0 (no less than 6.0 in any element)
TOEFL iBT 100 (no less than 21 in listening and writing, 22 in reading and 23 in speaking)
Alternative qualifications
For details please see the alternative qualifications page
Modules
The modules we offer are inspired by the research interests of our staff and as a result, may change from year to year. The following list is therefore subject to change but should give you a flavour of the modules we offer.
Typical year-one modules
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Studying the Greek World
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Interpreting Ancient Art
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Interpreting Ancient History
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Interpreting Ancient History
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Studying the Roman World
Typical year-two modules
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Extended Source Study in Ancient History
Typical year-three modules
Please see optional modules below or contact the Department of Classics for more information.
Typical optional modules
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Attic Tragedy in Perfomance
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From Julian to Theodosius
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Slavery in Roman Society
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Greeks and Barbarians: Connected Histories
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The Greek Countryside: Agriculture and Settlement
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Special Subject in Latin
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Slavery in Roman Society
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Latin Texts: 1
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Virgil and the Epic Tradition
Skills and careers
You will have a broad knowledge of periods of ancient history and you will have undertaken in-depth study into areas of your own interest. If you have elected to study Greek and Latin, you will have the skills to read and translate some source materials. Your transferable skills will include oral and written communication skills, the ability to construct a logical argument and the ability to synthesise and evaluate information and opinions.
Average starting salary
The average starting salary for 2009/10 full-time graduates of the Department of Classics was £16,950.00.*
*Average starting salary from known destinations of first-degree leavers who studied full-time, 2009/10.