BA Classical Studies

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Exeter

Program Overview

The BA Classical Studies at the University of Exeter allows students to explore the languages, literature, history, philosophy, and cultures of the ancient Greek and Roman worlds while developing strong analytical, research, and communication skills. This course is ideal for students fascinated by ancient civilisations, mythology, classical texts, archaeology, and cultural history, offering opportunities to study original sources and understand how the classical world continues to shape modern society.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
In the first year, students develop a strong foundation in Classical Studies through modules such as Greek and Roman Narrative, Greek and Roman Drama, and Ancient World: Greek Philosophy or Ancient World: Roman Philosophy. Students also begin building their knowledge of classical languages through modules such as Classical Language and Texts: Greek I or Classical Language and Texts: Latin I, while exploring the literature, philosophy, and historical sources of the ancient world.

Year 2:
In the second year, students expand their understanding of Greek and Roman societies through advanced language study and specialist topics. Modules such as Classical Language and Texts: Greek II, Classical Language and Texts: Latin II, Ancient World: Racecraft, Text and Context: Women in Homer, Roman Death and Commemoration, Ancient Sources (Written Evidence): Tyranny, and Ancient Sources (Material Evidence): Brave New Rome of Augustus allow students to examine ancient literature, social structures, historical events, and material culture in greater depth.

Year 3:
In the final year, students develop specialist knowledge through advanced modules such as The Age of Cicero, Magic, Witchcraft and Ghosts in the Greek and Roman Worlds, Virgil’s Georgic Environment, Domination and Resistance in Roman Britain, The World of Late Antiquity, Receptions of the Classical Body, and Critical Classics and the Contemporary World. Students also have the opportunity to complete a Dissertation, allowing them to conduct independent research on a classical topic that interests them.

Optional Year 4:
Students can extend their degree through a four-year pathway with options such as a Study Abroad year or Employment Experience year. These opportunities allow students to gain international exposure, develop workplace skills, and apply their knowledge of classical studies in professional environments before graduation.

Focus Areas

Classical languages, Greek and Roman literature, ancient history, mythology, philosophy, archaeology, material culture, ancient sources, Roman Britain, classical reception, cultural interpretation, independent research, and the influence of classical civilisation on the modern world.

Learning Outcomes

Students develop the ability to analyse ancient texts, interpret historical and archaeological evidence, understand classical languages, evaluate different perspectives, and carry out independent research. The programme strengthens critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, and research skills that are valuable across academic, cultural, educational, and professional environments.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The BA Classical Studies develops highly transferable skills in analysis, research, communication, organisation, and cultural understanding that are valued by employers. Graduates are prepared for careers in museums, heritage organisations, education, publishing, media, research, public service, and creative industries where strong interpretation and communication skills are essential.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The University of Exeter is a member of the Russell Group and is recognised internationally for its research excellence and high-quality teaching. Students benefit from a research-led humanities environment with access to experienced academics, specialist resources, and opportunities that support both academic growth and future career development.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The BA Classical Studies at the University of Exeter provides students with opportunities to develop practical skills through the study of ancient texts, historical evidence, material culture, and research-based learning. Students gain experience in analysing sources, interpreting artefacts, developing classical language skills, and conducting independent research with guidance from specialist academics. The programme combines classroom learning with access to humanities resources, digital tools, academic projects, and opportunities to explore the ancient world beyond traditional lectures.

Students develop practical knowledge and transferable skills through a range of academic and professional experiences:

Access to Ancient Texts and Historical Sources: Students work with literature, historical documents, and material evidence from the Greek and Roman worlds, developing the ability to interpret sources and understand ancient societies within their historical and cultural contexts.
Classical Language Training: Students can study classical languages through modules such as Classical Language and Texts: Greek and Classical Language and Texts: Latin. This helps students develop skills in translation, close reading, linguistic analysis, and direct engagement with ancient texts.
Research-Led Teaching: Students learn from academics specialising in areas such as Greek mythology, Roman literature, ancient politics, religion, and social history. Teaching is informed by current research, allowing students to explore new ideas and perspectives within Classical Studies.
Independent Research Projects: Students develop research and project management skills through advanced coursework and final-year independent research. The dissertation allows students to investigate a classical topic of their choice while strengthening analytical thinking and academic writing abilities.
Classics Society and Student Activities: Students can take part in the Classics Society, which provides opportunities to engage with the wider Classics community through talks, discussions, cultural activities, performances, and social events.
Digital Learning and Research Resources: Students use online academic databases, digital learning platforms, library collections, and specialist humanities resources to support their research and understanding of ancient history, literature, and culture.
Study Abroad Opportunities: Students can choose a four-year pathway with Study Abroad, spending a year at one of Exeter’s partner universities around the world. This experience helps students develop independence, cultural awareness, and a global perspective.
Employment Experience Opportunity: Students can select a four-year Employment Experience pathway to gain professional workplace experience, develop career skills, and apply their academic knowledge in a practical setting before graduation.
Collaborative Learning and Seminars: Through lectures, seminars, and discussions, students analyse different interpretations of classical sources, share ideas with peers, and develop communication, presentation, and teamwork skills.
Personal Academic Support: Students receive guidance from academic tutors throughout their studies, helping them develop their interests, improve their skills, and make the most of academic and career opportunities.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The BA Classical Studies at the University of Exeter prepares students for a wide range of career opportunities by developing strong skills in critical thinking, research, communication, cultural understanding, and analysing complex information. Graduates gain versatile skills that are valued across sectors such as museums, heritage, education, publishing, media, business, law, and public services. Potential career roles include Archives Assistant, Business Development Associate, Freelance Journalist, Grants and Partnerships Assistant, Investment Analyst, Marketing Manager, Publishing Assistant, Research Culture Administrator, Trainee Chartered Accountant, and Media Producer.

The combination of knowledge of ancient cultures, research abilities, problem-solving skills, and strong written and verbal communication helps graduates build a flexible professional profile for a variety of career paths:

Careers Service Support: Students benefit from the University of Exeter’s dedicated Careers Service, which provides career guidance, mentoring, employability workshops, application support, and resources to help students explore career options and prepare for employment.
Exeter Award and Exeter Leaders Award: These programmes help students develop workplace skills through workshops, volunteering opportunities, leadership activities, and employability-focused experiences that enhance their confidence and professional profile.
Employment Experience Opportunity: Students can choose the four-year BA Classical Studies with Employment Experience pathway, which provides the opportunity to gain practical workplace experience in the UK or abroad. This helps students apply their academic knowledge in professional environments while building valuable career skills.
Graduate Outcomes: Graduates have progressed into roles such as Archives Assistant, Business Development Associate, Freelance Journalist, Grants and Partnerships Assistant, Investment Analyst, Marketing Manager, Publishing Assistant, Research Culture Administrator, Trainee Chartered Accountant, and Media Producer.
Employment Statistics and Salary Information: The University of Exeter does not publish specific employment rates or salary figures for the BA Classical Studies programme. However, the university highlights that graduates develop highly transferable skills that are valued by employers across a wide range of industries.
University and Professional Connections: Students benefit from Exeter’s research communities, academic networks, and connections with cultural and heritage-related fields. These experiences help students understand professional opportunities linked to history, research, communication, and cultural organisations.
Long-Term Career Value: The programme develops skills in research, evidence analysis, independent thinking, communication, and cultural awareness. These abilities provide long-term career value as they are applicable across many industries requiring professionals who can analyse information, solve problems, and communicate effectively.
Graduation Outcomes: Graduates use their Classical Studies background to enter careers in museums, heritage organisations, education, journalism, business, finance, law, publishing, and media. The broad skill set gained from the degree allows students to adapt to different career opportunities throughout their professional journey.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BA Classical Studies, students can continue their studies through postgraduate programmes in areas such as History, Archaeology, Heritage Studies, International Relations, Management, Law, Library and Information Studies, or other specialist humanities fields. Further study allows graduates to develop deeper expertise in their chosen area and progress towards academic, research, cultural, or professional careers.