BA Classical Studies and Religion

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Exeter

Program Overview

The BA Classical Studies and Religion at the University of Exeter combines the exploration of ancient Greek and Roman civilisations with the study of religious beliefs, traditions, and practices across different cultures and historical periods. This course is ideal for students interested in history, mythology, culture, and religion, allowing them to analyse classical texts, understand the development of religious ideas, and explore how beliefs have influenced societies throughout history.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
In the first year, students build a strong foundation in Classical Studies and Religion by exploring modules such as Greek and Roman Narrative, Greek and Roman Drama, Religion and Material Culture, and Reform, Retreat and Reinvention: A History of Christianity. Students can also choose optional modules including Ancient World: Racecraft, Text and Context: Women in Homer, Roman Death and Commemoration, Ancient Sources (Written Evidence): Tyranny, Ancient World: Roman Philosophy, Introduction to Islam, and What is Religion?, helping them develop an understanding of ancient societies and different religious traditions.

Year 2:
In the second year, students develop deeper knowledge of classical cultures and religious studies through advanced exploration of literature, history, and belief systems. Modules include Greek and Roman Narrative, Greek and Roman Drama, Ancient Sources: Tyranny, Roman Death and Commemoration, Intermediate Biblical Hebrew, Reading New Testament Letters, The Invention of God, Conflicts and Encounters between Religions: War, Peace, Politics and the Quest for Dialogue, and Jesus: Histories and Receptions, allowing students to examine religious developments and their influence on societies.

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

Final Year:
In the final year, students undertake advanced study in Classical Studies and Religion through specialist modules and independent research. Students can complete a Dissertation or Theology and Religion Dissertation while exploring topics such as The Age of Cicero, Magic, Witchcraft and Ghosts in the Greek and Roman Worlds, The World of Late Antiquity, and Critical Classics and the Contemporary World, developing advanced research, analytical, and communication skills.

Focus Areas

Classical civilisation, Greek and Roman literature, ancient history, mythology, religious traditions, Christianity, Islam, theology, biblical studies, philosophy of religion, cultural identity, comparative religion, ancient sources, and independent research.

Learning Outcomes

Students develop the ability to analyse historical and religious texts, understand different belief systems, evaluate cultural practices, and communicate complex ideas clearly. The programme strengthens research skills, critical thinking, cultural awareness, and the ability to understand how classical traditions and religions have shaped societies across different periods.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The BA Classical Studies and Religion develops highly transferable skills in research, communication, critical analysis, problem-solving, and cultural understanding. These skills prepare graduates for careers in areas such as education, heritage, publishing, journalism, museums, public service, religious organisations, research, 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 research-led learning, expert academic support, interdisciplinary study opportunities, and career development resources that help them prepare for a wide range of professional pathways.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The BA Classical Studies and Religion at the University of Exeter provides students with an engaging learning experience that combines the study of ancient civilisations, religious traditions, historical sources, and cultural practices. Students develop practical skills in research, critical thinking, communication, and analysis through interactive seminars, independent projects, academic discussions, and research-led teaching. The programme also allows students to extend their learning beyond the classroom through academic events, student activities, study abroad opportunities, and professional experience pathways.

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

Discussion-Based Seminars and Group Learning: Students take part in seminars and group discussions where they explore classical texts, religious traditions, historical evidence, and different interpretations of cultural and ethical questions. These activities help students improve communication skills, confidence in presenting ideas, and the ability to engage with different viewpoints.
Research-Led Teaching: Students learn from academics involved in specialist research areas including ancient Greek mythology, Latin literature, Greek inscriptions, ancient politics, social history, and religious studies. This allows students to engage with current research and gain deeper knowledge of Classical Studies and Religion.
Independent Research Projects: Through coursework, written assignments, and dissertation options, students develop strong research and analytical skills. They learn how to investigate topics, evaluate sources, create structured arguments, and communicate complex ideas effectively.
Academic Events and Research Seminars: Students can participate in mini conferences, research seminars, Classical Association lectures, and talks by internal and external speakers. These opportunities help students develop presentation skills and experience academic discussions.
Classics Society Activities: Students can join the Classics Society, which organises lectures, debates, film evenings, plays, trips, and peer mentoring activities. These experiences encourage teamwork, leadership, and active involvement in the university community.
Student Publication Opportunities: Students can contribute to Pegasus, the department’s journal, gaining experience in academic writing, editing, and sharing research-based ideas with a wider audience.
Ancient Language Learning: Students have opportunities to study languages such as Ancient Greek and Biblical Hebrew, helping them work with original historical and religious sources while developing translation and interpretation skills.
Digital Learning Resources: Students use online learning platforms, digital research materials, and academic databases to support their studies, prepare for seminars, and complete research projects. These tools help students develop effective digital research and information management skills.
Library and Research Facilities: Students have access to the University of Exeter’s library resources, including specialist books, journals, online databases, and humanities collections that support research in Classical Studies, Theology, and Religion.
Study Abroad Opportunities: Students can choose a four-year pathway with Study Abroad, allowing them to experience another academic environment, develop independence, gain international perspectives, and enhance their cultural understanding.
Employment Experience Opportunities: Students can choose an Employment Experience pathway that includes a year of professional work placement in the UK or abroad. This helps students gain workplace experience, apply their academic skills in professional settings, and improve their future career prospects.
Personal Academic Support: Students receive support from a Personal Tutor throughout their degree, helping them with academic development, progression planning, and making the most of available learning and career opportunities.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The BA Classical Studies and Religion at the University of Exeter prepares students for a wide range of career opportunities by developing strong skills in research, critical thinking, communication, cultural understanding, and the interpretation of historical and religious sources. The programme helps graduates build flexible career pathways across sectors such as heritage, education, journalism, publishing, law, business, public service, 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 Museum Professional.

The combination of Classical Studies and Religion gives students valuable transferable skills, including analysing information, evaluating evidence, understanding different cultures, conducting research, and communicating ideas effectively, preparing them for a variety of professional opportunities:

Careers Service Support: Students have access to the University of Exeter’s dedicated Careers Service, which provides careers advice, mentoring, employability workshops, application guidance, and resources to help students explore career options and prepare for graduate employment.
Exeter Award and Exeter Leaders Award: Students can participate in skills development workshops, volunteering activities, and leadership opportunities that help them build confidence, develop workplace skills, and demonstrate their achievements to future employers.
Employment Experience Opportunities: Students can choose an Employment Experience pathway, which allows them to complete a graduate-level work placement in the UK or abroad. This provides valuable professional experience, helps students apply their academic knowledge in real workplace settings, and strengthens their career profile before graduation.
Study Abroad Opportunities: Students can choose a Study Abroad pathway to experience another academic environment, develop independence, improve cultural awareness, and gain international experience that supports future career opportunities.
Employment Statistics and Graduate Outcomes: The University of Exeter reports strong graduate outcomes, with 92% of graduates in the Sociology, Philosophy and Anthropology subject area being employed or continuing further study 15 months after graduation (HESA Graduate Outcomes Survey 2022/23).
Graduate Career Pathways: Graduates from related Classics and Ancient History programmes 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 links with cultural, educational, and professional sectors. The programme’s focus on history, religion, and cultural understanding supports careers that value research ability, communication, and analytical thinking.
Long-Term Career Value: The degree develops skills that remain valuable throughout a graduate’s career, including critical analysis, problem-solving, independent research, evidence evaluation, and clear communication. These skills allow graduates to adapt to changing career opportunities across different industries.
Graduation Outcomes: Graduates are prepared for careers in museums and heritage organisations, education, journalism, publishing, business, law, research, public service, and cultural industries. The broad academic foundation of Classical Studies and Religion provides students with the flexibility to pursue both specialist and diverse professional pathways.

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