Ancient History

With our BA Ancient History degree, immerse yourself in the rich cultures of ancient Greece and Rome - their history, societies, achievements, beliefs and values - and discover how these ancient civilisations have influenced the modern world. Ancient history is the study of the Greek and Roman worlds over a period spanning from 2000 BC to around 600 AD and covers parts of Africa, Asia and Europe. You will learn about these ancient cultures in their political literary, social, cultural and religious contexts. This flexible course allows you to pursue your own interests and choose from a wide range of research-led subjects. 95% of our research is of international standing (REF 2021, combining 4*, 3* and 2* submissions – Classics). Our findings feed directly into your learning, with 97% of our students saying that teaching staff are good at explaining things (National Student Survey 2025, 97.4% of responders from the Department of Classics). You can enhance your knowledge of the ancient world by studying Latin or Greek, or gain an understanding of the ancient past through hands-on experience with artefacts from the Ure Museum – the University's internationally important collection of Greek and Egyptian antiquities. You can also explore ancient Rome through our unique digital model of the city. Your first year will be one of discovery and experimentation. Core modules will provide you with a solid grounding, while optional modules let you explore the different approaches, periods, and cultures that interest you. In your second year you will be encouraged to become more independent, proposing your own areas of study and setting your own essay questions. You can refine your interests in your final year and focus on your dissertation.