BA Classical Studies and Modern Languages

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Exeter

Program Overview

The BA Classical Studies and Modern Languages at the University of Exeter combines the exploration of the ancient Greek and Roman worlds with the study of a modern language, giving students the opportunity to understand different cultures, histories, literature, and societies across time. This course is ideal for students interested in languages, history, global cultures, and classical civilisation, offering a balanced combination of classical texts, language learning, cultural analysis, and international experiences that develop strong communication and analytical skills.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
In the first year, students build a strong foundation in Classical Studies and their chosen modern language. They explore modules such as Greek and Roman Narrative and Greek and Roman Drama, while developing language skills through options such as French, German, Italian, Spanish, Chinese, Portuguese, or Russian language modules. Students can also study topics including Ancient World: Racecraft, Text and Context: Women in Homer, Comparative Literatures and Cultures: Theories and Approaches, and Language, Culture, International Relations, helping them connect ancient civilisations with modern cultural perspectives.

Year 2:
In the second year, students develop deeper knowledge of classical literature, ancient societies, and their chosen modern language. They continue with advanced language development through modules such as French Language, Written and Oral, Intermediate German, Intermediate Italian, Intermediate Chinese, or Spanish Language, Written and Oral, while exploring specialist areas of Classical Studies including ancient history, literature, philosophy, and cultural identity.

Year 3 (Study Abroad Year for Four-Year Pathway):
Students who choose the four-year pathway have the opportunity to spend their third year abroad through options such as Work and Study Abroad, Study Abroad at a Partner University, or Internship Abroad Combined with Study at a Partner University Abroad. This experience allows students to improve their language fluency, gain international exposure, develop independence, and apply their academic knowledge within a different cultural environment.

Final Year:
In the final year, students refine their language skills through advanced modules such as Advanced French Language Skills, Advanced German Language Skills, Advanced Italian Language Skills, Advanced Chinese Language Skills, Advanced Portuguese Language Skills, Advanced Russian Language Skills, or Advanced Spanish Language Skills. Students also explore advanced Classical Studies topics such as The Age of Cicero, Magic, Witchcraft and Ghosts in the Greek and Roman Worlds, Being and Not-Being in Greek Philosophy: from Parmenides to Aristotle, Women Writing Classics, and Roman Political Thought, with opportunities to complete independent research through a dissertation.

Focus Areas

Classical civilisation, Greek and Roman literature, ancient history, mythology, modern languages, translation, cultural studies, international communication, comparative literature, language and identity, independent research, and global perspectives.

Learning Outcomes

Students develop advanced language skills, cultural awareness, research abilities, critical thinking, and the ability to analyse historical and literary sources. The programme helps students communicate effectively across cultures, understand different societies, and apply their linguistic and analytical skills in academic, professional, and international settings.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The BA Classical Studies and Modern Languages develops valuable transferable skills in communication, problem-solving, cultural understanding, research, and analysis. These skills prepare graduates for careers in areas such as international organisations, education, translation, publishing, heritage, tourism, media, business, diplomacy, and cultural industries.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The University of Exeter is a member of the Russell Group and is recognised for its research excellence and high-quality teaching. Students benefit from a research-led humanities education, expert academic guidance, international opportunities, and career-focused experiences that support their future professional development.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The BA Classical Studies and Modern Languages at the University of Exeter gives students the opportunity to build practical skills by combining ancient history and culture with modern language learning. Through interactive teaching, research activities, independent projects, and international experiences, students develop communication abilities, cultural awareness, analytical thinking, and confidence in working across different languages and societies. The programme encourages students to apply their knowledge beyond the classroom through language practice, academic discussions, digital resources, and opportunities for global experiences.

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

Language Learning Facilities: Students benefit from the University of Exeter’s Language Centre, which supports modern language development through interactive learning resources, language practice activities, and opportunities to improve listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills.
Study Abroad and International Placement Opportunities: Students can choose a four-year pathway that includes a year abroad through options such as Work and Study Abroad, Study Abroad at a Partner University, or Internship Abroad Combined with Study at a Partner University Abroad. This experience allows students to improve their language abilities, experience new cultures, and gain international academic or workplace exposure.
Seminars and Collaborative Learning: Students take part in lectures, seminars, study groups, and online learning activities where they discuss ideas, analyse texts, present arguments, and collaborate with classmates. These activities help develop confidence, teamwork, and communication skills.
Classical Text and Cultural Analysis: Students explore Greek and Roman literature, history, and cultural traditions through translated texts and research-led teaching. They develop the ability to interpret historical sources, understand different perspectives, and analyse cultural developments across time.
Research-Led Learning: Students learn from academics involved in current research areas such as ancient mythology, literature, politics, religion, and social history. This allows students to engage with specialist knowledge and explore topics connected to real academic research.
Independent Research Projects: Through coursework, written assignments, and independent study, students develop research, analytical, and academic writing skills. These projects help students learn how to investigate topics, evaluate evidence, and present well-supported arguments.
Digital Learning Tools and Online Resources: Students use digital learning platforms, online databases, academic journals, and electronic resources to support language development, research activities, and preparation for assessments.
Classics Society Activities: Students can participate in the Classics Society, which organises academic and social activities such as lectures, debates, film nights, plays, trips, and peer mentoring opportunities. These activities help students develop leadership, teamwork, and community-building skills.
Student Publication Opportunities: Students can contribute to Pegasus, the department’s journal, gaining experience in writing, editing, and sharing academic ideas with a wider audience.
Library and Research Facilities: Students have access to the University of Exeter’s library resources, including digital collections, academic journals, books, and specialist humanities materials that support research in Classical Studies and Modern Languages.
Cultural and Heritage Resources: Students can make use of Exeter’s humanities collections and cultural resources to support their understanding of languages, literature, history, and heritage studies.
Personal Academic Support: Students receive guidance from Personal Tutors throughout their studies, helping them develop academically, plan their learning journey, and make the most of opportunities available during the programme.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The BA Classical Studies and Modern Languages at the University of Exeter prepares students for a wide range of international career opportunities by developing advanced language skills, cultural understanding, research abilities, critical thinking, and communication expertise. The combination of classical knowledge and modern language proficiency helps graduates build successful careers in areas such as heritage, education, journalism, business, law, diplomacy, translation, publishing, and cultural organisations. Potential career roles include Archives Assistant, Business Development Associate, Freelance Journalist, Marketing Manager, Publishing Assistant, Research Culture Administrator, Investment Analyst, Media Producer, International Relations Officer, and Translation Professional.

The programme develops valuable skills in analysing information, interpreting sources, communicating across cultures, and working independently, helping graduates create flexible career pathways across different sectors:

Careers Service Support: Students have access to the University of Exeter’s dedicated Careers Service, which provides career advice, mentoring, employability workshops, application guidance, and resources to help students explore career options and prepare for professional opportunities.
Exeter Award and Exeter Leaders Award: These initiatives support students in developing workplace skills through workshops, volunteering, leadership activities, and career development opportunities. They help students build confidence, improve employability skills, and demonstrate their achievements to future employers.
International Placement Experience: Students can choose a four-year pathway that includes an international year abroad through options such as studying at a partner university, completing a work placement, or combining study and internship experience abroad. This allows students to improve their language fluency, gain global experience, and develop valuable intercultural and professional 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 provide specific employment rates or salary figures for the BA Classical Studies and Modern Languages programme. However, graduates benefit from strong transferable skills in communication, research, analysis, and cultural awareness that are valued by employers across a wide range of industries.
University and Professional Connections: Students benefit from Exeter’s international networks, research communities, and global opportunities that support careers involving languages, communication, cultural exchange, and international engagement. The programme’s study and work abroad opportunities also provide valuable experience in different academic and professional environments.
Long-Term Career Value: The degree develops skills that remain valuable throughout a graduate’s career, including independent thinking, problem-solving, research ability, multilingual communication, cultural awareness, and the ability to understand and explain complex ideas. These skills allow graduates to adapt to opportunities across different sectors.
Graduation Outcomes: Graduates are prepared for careers in museums and heritage organisations, education, publishing, journalism, business, law, international organisations, translation, media, and cultural industries. The combination of Classical Studies and Modern Languages provides a broad foundation for both specialist and wider professional careers.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BA Classical Studies and Modern Languages, students can continue their studies through postgraduate programmes in areas such as Classical Studies, History, International Relations, Translation Studies, Modern Languages, Archaeology, Heritage Studies, Law, Management, or other specialist humanities programmes. Further study allows graduates to develop advanced expertise, pursue research opportunities, or prepare for professional careers requiring specialist knowledge and language skills.