BA Classical Studies and English

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Exeter

Program Overview

The BA Classical Studies and English at the University of Exeter combines the exploration of the ancient Greek and Roman worlds with the study of English literature, allowing students to examine influential texts, ideas, cultures, and traditions across different periods. This course is ideal for students interested in literature, history, mythology, and critical analysis, offering the opportunity to study classical languages, ancient sources, literary works, and develop strong research, communication, and analytical skills.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
In the first year, students build a strong foundation in both Classical Studies and English through modules such as Greek and Roman Narrative, Greek and Roman Drama, and Beginnings: English Literature before 1800. Students are introduced to ancient storytelling, dramatic traditions, literary interpretation, and historical analysis while also having opportunities to explore topics such as Ancient World: Racecraft, Text and Context: Women in Homer, Roman Death and Commemoration, Ancient Sources (Written Evidence): Tyranny, and classical language modules including Classical Language and Texts: Greek I or Classical Language and Texts: Latin I.

Year 2:
In the second year, students expand their knowledge of classical literature and English studies through more advanced literary and historical exploration. 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 societies, literature, historical evidence, and cultural themes in greater depth while continuing to develop their English literary skills.

Year 3:
In the final year, students specialise in areas of Classical Studies and English 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 complete a Dissertation or Creative Writing Dissertation, allowing them to carry out independent research or develop a creative project based on their academic interests.

Year 4 (Optional Study Abroad Pathway):
Students can choose a four-year version of the programme with Study Abroad, spending an additional year at one of Exeter’s partner universities. This experience allows students to gain international exposure, develop independence, improve intercultural awareness, and apply their academic knowledge within a global learning environment.

Focus Areas

Classical literature, Greek and Roman cultures, English literature, mythology, ancient history, classical languages, literary criticism, historical sources, creative writing, cultural interpretation, independent research, and communication skills.

Learning Outcomes

Students develop the ability to analyse complex literary and historical texts, interpret ancient and modern sources, conduct independent research, and communicate ideas effectively. The programme strengthens critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving, research skills, and cultural awareness, preparing students for a wide range of academic and professional environments.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The BA Classical Studies and English develops valuable transferable skills in research, writing, communication, analysis, and interpretation that are highly valued by employers. Graduates are prepared for careers in publishing, education, museums, heritage, journalism, media, communications, research, and creative industries.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The University of Exeter is a member of the Russell Group and is internationally recognised for research excellence and high-quality teaching. Students benefit from a research-led humanities education, expert academic guidance, specialist resources, and opportunities that support both personal development and future career progression.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The BA Classical Studies and English at the University of Exeter allows students to develop practical skills by combining the study of ancient civilisations, classical texts, and English literature with research-based learning and creative exploration. Students gain experience in analysing complex texts, interpreting historical and literary evidence, improving communication skills, and carrying out independent research with guidance from experienced academics. The programme encourages students to engage with original ideas through seminars, research activities, digital resources, cultural events, student societies, and opportunities for international experience.

Students gain practical experience and strengthen their academic and professional skills through a range of learning opportunities:

Research-Led Teaching: Students learn from academics whose teaching is informed by current research in areas such as classical literature, mythology, ancient history, religion, and English literary studies. This allows students to explore new perspectives and engage with specialist knowledge from experts in the field.
Seminars and Collaborative Learning: Through lectures, small-group seminars, and discussions, students analyse texts, debate different interpretations, and share ideas with classmates. These activities help develop confidence, presentation skills, teamwork, and effective communication.
Classical Text and Language Engagement: Students explore important Greek and Roman texts and can study classical languages such as Ancient Greek or Latin. This helps them develop deeper understanding of original sources, translation skills, and close reading abilities.
Independent Research Projects: Students strengthen their research and analytical skills through written assignments and final-year independent study options. These projects allow students to investigate topics of interest while developing academic writing, critical thinking, and project management skills.
Research Events and Academic Activities: Students can participate in academic events such as research seminars, mini conferences, and Classical Association lectures. These activities provide opportunities to present ideas, discuss research, and engage with wider academic communities.
Classics Society Activities: Students can join the Classics Society, which organises talks, debates, plays, film evenings, social events, trips, and peer support activities. These experiences help students develop leadership, organisation, teamwork, and community engagement skills.
Student Publication Opportunities: Students can contribute to Pegasus, the department’s journal, gaining experience in writing, editing, and presenting academic ideas for publication. This helps develop valuable communication and editorial skills.
Digital Learning and Research Resources: Students use digital learning platforms, online databases, academic journals, and library resources to support research in Classical Studies and English. These tools help students develop strong information management and independent research abilities.
Heritage Collections and Cultural Resources: Students can benefit from Exeter’s cultural and heritage resources, including specialist collections and the Bill Douglas Cinema Museum, which support the study of literature, history, culture, and visual materials.
Study Abroad Opportunities: Students can choose a four-year pathway with Study Abroad, spending an additional year at a partner university. This provides international exposure, cultural understanding, independence, and the opportunity to experience different academic environments.
Employment Experience Opportunities: Students can choose employment experience options to gain workplace exposure and apply their academic skills in a professional setting before graduation. This helps build confidence and improve career readiness.
Library and Study Facilities: Students have access to the University of Exeter’s library facilities, including extensive digital resources, academic journals, e-books, specialist collections, and study spaces that support humanities research and independent learning.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The BA Classical Studies and English at the University of Exeter prepares students for a wide range of career opportunities by developing strong skills in critical thinking, research, communication, interpretation, and cultural understanding. Graduates learn how to analyse complex information, evaluate sources, and communicate ideas effectively, making them suitable for careers in publishing, education, museums, heritage, journalism, business, law, and creative industries. Potential career roles include Archives Assistant, Publishing Assistant, Freelance Journalist, Marketing Manager, Media Producer, Research Culture Administrator, Business Development Associate, Grants and Partnerships Assistant, Investment Analyst, and Trainee Chartered Accountant.

The combination of Classical Studies and English provides graduates with a flexible skill set that is valued across a variety of professional sectors:

Careers Service Support: Students have access to the University of Exeter’s dedicated Careers Service, which offers career guidance, mentoring, employability workshops, application support, and resources to help students explore career options and successfully transition into employment.
Exeter Award and Exeter Leaders Award: These programmes help students develop employability skills through workshops, volunteering opportunities, leadership activities, and career-focused experiences. They support students in building confidence, improving professional skills, and preparing for future employment.
Employment Experience Opportunity: Students can choose the four-year BA Classical Studies and English with Employment Experience pathway, which provides the opportunity to gain practical workplace experience in the UK or abroad. This allows students to apply their academic knowledge in a professional environment while developing valuable career skills.
Graduate Outcomes: Graduates from related Classics and English pathways 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 and English programme. However, the university highlights that graduates develop highly transferable skills in research, communication, analysis, and problem-solving that are valued by employers across different industries.
University and Professional Connections: Students benefit from Exeter’s academic networks, research communities, and connections with cultural, heritage, publishing, and professional sectors. The programme’s combination of literature, history, and analytical study supports progression into a variety of career areas.
Long-Term Career Value: The degree develops skills in independent thinking, evidence evaluation, written communication, creativity, and cultural awareness. These abilities remain valuable throughout a graduate’s career, supporting opportunities in sectors that require strong analytical and communication skills.
Graduation Outcomes: Graduates can pursue careers in museums, heritage organisations, education, publishing, journalism, communications, research, business, and media. The broad knowledge and transferable skills gained from the programme allow students to adapt to changing career opportunities and explore diverse professional pathways.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BA Classical Studies and English, students can continue their education through postgraduate study in areas such as History, Classical Studies, Literature, Archaeology, Heritage Studies, International Relations, Management, Law, or Library and Information Studies. Further study enables graduates to specialise in their chosen field, develop advanced expertise, and progress towards academic, research, cultural, or professional careers.