BA Classical Studies and Philosophy

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Exeter

Program Overview

The BA Classical Studies and Philosophy at the University of Exeter combines the study of ancient Greek and Roman worlds with the exploration of philosophical ideas, allowing students to understand how history, literature, ethics, and human thought have influenced societies over time. This course is ideal for students who enjoy exploring questions about knowledge, morality, human behaviour, and culture while developing strong skills in critical thinking, research, analysis, and communication through Classical Studies and Philosophy.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
In the first year, students develop a strong foundation in Classical Studies and Philosophy by exploring modules such as Greek and Roman Narrative and Greek and Roman Drama, alongside philosophy modules including Knowledge and Reality, Evidence and Argument, Introduction to Philosophical Analysis, and Philosophy of Morality. Students can also explore optional topics such as Ancient World: Racecraft, Text and Context: Women in Homer, Roman Death and Commemoration, and Ancient World: Roman Philosophy, helping them understand ancient societies while developing essential philosophical skills.

Year 2:
In the second year, students expand their understanding of classical cultures and philosophical debates through more specialised modules. They explore topics such as Greek and Roman Narrative, Greek and Roman Drama, Philosophy of Mind, Body and Mind, Metaphysics, Philosophy of Language, and Philosophical Research, while optional modules allow them to investigate areas including Ancient Sources: Tyranny, Plato’s Dialogues, Philosophy of Law, Ethics of Emerging Technologies, and the History of Philosophy.

Year 3 (Optional Placement or Study Abroad Year):
Students have the opportunity to enhance their degree through a year of professional or international experience by choosing options such as Study Abroad or Employment Experience. This additional year allows students to gain practical experience, develop independence, improve employability skills, and apply their academic knowledge in a different cultural or professional environment.

Final Year:
In the final year, students undertake advanced study across Classical Studies and Philosophy while developing specialist knowledge through higher-level modules and independent research. Students can explore areas such as ancient history, classical literature, ethics, metaphysics, philosophy of science, aesthetics, and contemporary philosophical debates, with the option to complete a dissertation that strengthens their research and analytical abilities.

Focus Areas

Classical civilisation, Greek and Roman literature, ancient history, mythology, philosophy of knowledge, ethics, metaphysics, logic, philosophical analysis, ancient sources, critical thinking, independent research, and intellectual history.

Learning Outcomes

Students develop the ability to analyse complex ideas, evaluate evidence, construct logical arguments, and interpret historical and philosophical texts. The programme strengthens research skills, independent thinking, problem-solving abilities, and the ability to communicate ideas clearly across academic and professional settings.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The BA Classical Studies and Philosophy develops valuable transferable skills in critical reasoning, communication, research, analysis, and problem-solving. These skills prepare graduates for careers in areas such as education, publishing, law, public policy, heritage, journalism, business, research, and cultural organisations.

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 research-led learning, expert academic support, interdisciplinary study opportunities, and career development experiences that help prepare them for a wide range of future pathways.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The BA Classical Studies and Philosophy at the University of Exeter offers students a practical and engaging learning experience by combining the study of ancient civilisations, philosophical ideas, and research-based exploration. Students develop valuable skills in critical thinking, analysis, communication, and independent research through interactive seminars, academic discussions, specialist resources, and opportunities to explore complex historical and philosophical questions. The programme encourages students to apply their knowledge beyond lectures through research activities, presentations, academic events, and access to dedicated humanities facilities.

Students develop practical skills and gain valuable academic experience through a range of learning opportunities:

Discussion-Based Seminars and Collaborative Learning: Students take part in seminars and group discussions where they analyse philosophical arguments, explore classical texts, and exchange ideas with classmates. This helps them build confidence in presenting opinions, developing logical arguments, and engaging with different perspectives.
Research-Led Teaching: Students learn from academics involved in specialist research areas such as ancient mythology, Greek and Roman literature, politics, religion, philosophy, and social history. This allows students to explore current academic discussions and develop a deeper understanding of their chosen subjects.
Independent Research Projects: Through coursework, written assignments, and final-year research projects, students develop strong research and analytical abilities. They learn how to investigate complex topics, evaluate evidence, structure arguments, and communicate ideas effectively.
Academic Events and Presentations: Students can participate in research seminars, lectures, and academic events where they engage with scholars and fellow students. These activities help students improve presentation skills and gain experience in discussing research ideas.
Classics Society Activities: Students can join the Classics Society, which organises lectures, debates, film evenings, plays, social events, trips, and peer mentoring activities. These experiences encourage teamwork, leadership, and involvement in the wider academic community.
Student Publication Opportunities: Students have the opportunity to contribute to Pegasus, the department’s journal, gaining experience in academic writing, editing, and sharing their ideas with a broader audience.
Ancient Language Development: Students can study classical languages such as Ancient Greek or Latin, allowing them to work with original historical sources and strengthen their translation and interpretation skills.
Digital Learning Resources: Students use online academic platforms, digital resources, research databases, and electronic materials to support their studies, prepare for seminars, and complete research projects.
Library and Research Facilities: Students have access to the University of Exeter’s extensive library collections, including books, journals, digital resources, and specialist humanities materials that support research in Classical Studies and Philosophy.
Digital Humanities Resources: Students can benefit from Exeter’s wider digital research environment, which supports the use of digital tools and resources for humanities research and learning.
Study Abroad Opportunities: Students can choose a four-year pathway with Study Abroad, allowing them to experience a different academic environment, develop independence, and gain international experience.
Employment Experience Opportunities: Students can choose an Employment Experience pathway, giving them the opportunity to gain workplace experience and apply their academic skills in a professional setting before graduation.
Personal Academic Support: Students receive guidance from a Personal Tutor throughout the degree, helping them develop academically, plan their progression, and make the most of available learning and career opportunities.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The BA Classical Studies and Philosophy at the University of Exeter prepares students for a wide range of career opportunities by developing strong skills in critical thinking, independent research, logical reasoning, communication, and the analysis of complex ideas. The combination of Classical Studies and Philosophy helps graduates build flexible career pathways in areas such as education, heritage, journalism, law, business, public policy, research, 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, Trainee Chartered Accountant, and Legal Professional.

The programme develops highly valued skills in analysing information, evaluating evidence, constructing arguments, and communicating ideas effectively, helping graduates succeed across a variety of professional sectors:

Careers Service Support: Students have access to the University of Exeter’s dedicated Careers Service, which provides career guidance, mentoring, employability workshops, application advice, and resources to help students explore opportunities and prepare for their future careers.
Exeter Award and Exeter Leaders Award: These initiatives support students in developing professional skills through workshops, volunteering activities, leadership opportunities, and career development experiences. They help students build confidence and showcase their skills to future employers.
Employment Experience Opportunities: Students can choose an Employment Experience pathway, which allows them to gain workplace experience in the UK or abroad. This opportunity helps students apply their academic knowledge in a professional environment, develop practical skills, and enhance their career readiness before graduation.
Study Abroad Opportunities: Students can choose a Study Abroad pathway to experience another academic environment, develop independence, and gain international perspectives that can support future career opportunities.
Employment Statistics and Graduate Outcomes: The University of Exeter highlights strong graduate outcomes, with 92% of graduates in the Sociology, Philosophy and Anthropology subject area being employed or engaged in further study 15 months after graduation (HESA Graduate Outcomes Survey 2022/23).
Graduate Career Pathways: Graduates from related Classics and Ancient History 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.
University and Professional Connections: Students benefit from Exeter’s research communities, academic networks, and connections with cultural, educational, and professional sectors. The combination of philosophical reasoning and classical knowledge supports careers that require strong analytical abilities, communication skills, and informed decision-making.
Long-Term Career Value: The degree develops transferable skills that remain valuable throughout a graduate’s career, including problem-solving, logical thinking, research ability, evidence evaluation, independent learning, and effective communication. These skills allow graduates to adapt to a wide range of professional environments.
Graduation Outcomes: Graduates are prepared for careers in museums and heritage organisations, education, journalism, publishing, business, law, public service, research, and cultural industries. The broad academic foundation of Classical Studies and Philosophy enables students to pursue both specialist and diverse professional pathways.

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