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Studying classics degree guide

A degree in classics will introduce you to the ways that some of the most important civilisations in world history (mainly Ancient Greece and Rome) used to live. You’ll learn about their cultures, languages, arts, politics and daily routines and analyse how they influenced the generations that came after them.

Eleanor Foulds
by Eleanor Foulds
Last Updated:
03 Nov 2022

Classics is an interdisciplinary course, meaning it relates to more than one subject. So if you’re a history buff who’s also interested in philosophy, culture, sociology and the arts this may be the dream degree for you. Although studying Greek or Latin can be part of the degree, it’s also possible to study other areas within the subject, without taking a language at all.

What do you need to get on a classics degree?


Average entry requirements for classics are:

  • UCAS points: 128 
  • A-levels: ABB 
  • Scottish Highers: AAAA – AAAAA
  • BTEC Nationals: DD
  • International Baccalaureate: 34 

Please be aware that these are average entry requirements and may change depending on the course and institution you select. Always confirm this for the particular university/course you're interested in.

Usually, no specific subjects are needed to study classics but some unis will ask for an A-level (or equivalent) in Latin or Greek. If not, it may be useful to have studied history, a classical subject or a modern language.

What classics degrees can you study?
 

You can study a standalone classics degree like:

  • BA Classics 
  • BA Classical Studies 

Or you can study classics as part of a joint degree by studying it with another subject, like:

  • BA Classical Studies and English 
  • BA Classics and History
  • BA Classics and Philosophy

What topics does a classics degree cover?
 

Common modules for classics include:

  • Greek literature 
  • Latin literature 
  • Greek and Roman culture
  • Greek and Roman history
  • Ancient sport
  • Classical mythology
  • Greek art and drama 

What do you learn studying a classics degree?
 

Studying a classics degree will help you gain industry-specific skills like:

  • Insight into ancient Greece and Roman societies and cultures
  • Understanding sociology and anthropology
  • Knowledge of ancient literature
  • Knowledge of ancient artefacts

More general, transferable skills you’ll pick up include:

  • Research and critical analysis 
  • Case building
  • Communication
  • Problem-solving
  • Writing skills
  • Contextualisation

“It gives you the same transferable skills in research, case building and communication as any other degree will, which is a good basis for employment in general.” –  Dean, classics graduate at the University of Edinburgh

What can you do with a classics degree?
 

There are a variety of job roles you can get with a classics degree, like:

Where to study classics?
 

Classics degrees usually last three years when studied full-time. Some unis offer a longer course which includes a foundation year. This might be a useful option if you didn’t study Latin at A-level and want a grounding in it.

How will you be assessed?
 

Classics courses usually involve assessment through:

  • Written exams
  • Coursework
  • Group work
  • Presentations
  • Performances/special projects

What are the postgraduate opportunities?
 

Your options for further study include:

  • MA Classics 
  • MA Ancient History 
  • MA Classical Art 
  • MA Ancient Archaeology 

What alternatives are there to a classics degree?
 

Not sure if a classics degree is right for you? Check out some related subjects: