Classics and Ancient History
Top 10 in the UK for Classics and Ancient History
7th in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025
Top 50 in the world for Classics and Ancient History
QS World University Subject Rankings 2024
Proactive Classics Society with successful student tutor scheme
We are 4th in the UK for world-leading Classics research
Based on 4* research in REF 2021
Degrees at Streatham Campus, Exeter
Classics and Ancient History is the branch of the humanities concerned with the study of the languages, literature, history, art and philosophy of the ancient Mediterranean world, especially Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome. Studying Classics and Ancient History at Exeter gives you the opportunity to explore the historic background that underpins our understanding of the world, its challenges and opportunities.
You’ll interact with the most exciting and innovative approaches to the subject today. As well as developing the traditional skills of classically-based degrees (such as language training and close analysis), you’ll benefit from imaginative teaching, based on the latest cutting-edge research. We combine the study of fascinating ancient civilizations with the intellectual challenges of studying language, literature, archaeology and history, as well as an in-depth exploration of the past and critical analysis of our contemporary world.
You can study one or more of the ancient languages and gain valuable skills in communication, critical understanding and analytical approaches to evidence, culture and society.
A Classics or Ancient History degree is coveted by employers, and students who pass through our department have an excellent record in the employment market: they have ended up in a wide range of fields, from acting to banking, teaching, law, publishing and journalism.
The department of Classics and Ancient History at Exeter is one of the largest and most vibrant in the country. You’ll join an open, friendly and dynamic department with a flourishing student Classics Society that runs a lively social and academic programme.
We often take an interdisciplinary perspective and have close links to related fields including history, archaeology, philosophy, visual arts, geography and linguistics. Classics and Ancient History is home to a number of projects and research centres: The Centre for Hellenistic and Romano-Greek Culture and Society, and The Centre for Connectivity in the Roman World. Our current members of staff have been responsible for some 50 books since 2000.
ECU’s Gender equality charter mark: Bronze award holder
Addressing gender inequalities and imbalance in the arts, humanities and social sciences. Find out more about GEM in Classics and Ancient History.
As someone who’d never studied Ancient History before, but came from a place of grassroots interest, studying the course at Exeter was undoubtedly a big jump – but one that has immeasurably changed my life for the better.
Both the sense of community and common interest within the department, as well as the sheer number of available opportunities and student support through the university have ensured that my three years at the university have been some of my best, and have given me the tools and skills I need to make the most of the professional world beyond university.
Patrick
BA Ancient History
