Ancient History BA

Course overview

Explore diverse cultures and societies across the ancient world in this fascinating degree.

You’ll study the civilisations of ancient Greece, Rome, Persia and beyond, analysing their political, cultural and social histories, how they’ve been received and interpreted by other cultures, and how we understand their world today.

Alongside great historical figures, you’ll study the lives of ordinary people, including subordinate groups in the ancient world and think critically about the evidence available to us. You’ll gain knowledge of historical research methods, archaeology, literary analysis and life in ancient Greek and Roman society. Optional modules will allow you to focus on topics such as classical literature, early Islamic history or Ancient Greek and Latin.

Entry requirements

A-level: ABB

Other course specific tests:

Where an applicant is taking the EPQ in a relevant subject this might be considered alongside other Level 3 qualifications and may attract an alternative offer in addition to the standard offer. If you are taking A Levels, this would be BBB at A Level and grade A in the EPQ.

International Baccalaureate

Career opportunities

A degree in Ancient History gives you a wide range of knowledge and skills across multiple disciplines.

You’ll be an excellent problem solver, capable of researching complex topics from different sources and drawing your own conclusions. You’ll have highly developed communication skills and be able to present your views effectively.

All of this is valued by employers, and graduates from the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Cultures go on to a wide range of careers, including publishing, journalism, law, curatorship, the civil service, the armed forces, advertising and marketing, education, business and finance and the charity sector.

Many of our graduates also progress onto postgraduate study.

We do everything we can to help prepare you for your career. Student-run career groups allow you to meet other students who share your career ambitions. You could also become a peer mentor under our scheme or apply for one of the internships offered every year.

We are committed to helping you achieve your career ambitions. The School of Languages, Cultures and Societies careers and employability support includes promoting internships, providing opportunities to work for the School and employer-led workshops and events.

You can read more about the range of careers our Ancient History graduates progress into, as well as the support we offer you throughout your degree.