Overview

Investigating ancient civilizations offers vital insights into the foundational political structures, cultural practices, and philosophical paradigms that continue to shape the modern world. Enrolling in the BA (Hons) Ancient History at the University of Exeter provides a comprehensive exploration of the Greek and Roman worlds from their earliest origins through late antiquity. Teaching is directly enriched by top-tier departmental research expertise in classical studies, positioning students at the forefront of contemporary historiographical debate. The curriculum balances the critical evaluation of ancient literary texts with material culture, while integrating compulsory first-year classical language study in Greek or Latin. Academic development is further supported by an active student-run society that operates a collaborative peer tutoring scheme for language acquisition and study skills. This program is ideally suited for curious students who wish to deconstruct historical narratives and interrogate original primary evidence. Graduates cultivate advanced critical thinking, analytical agility, and refined research capabilities valued across diverse professional sectors.

What You'll Learn

Political, military, and cultural history of the Archaic, Classical, and Hellenistic Greek worlds

The rise, imperial expansion, and eventual decline of the Roman Republic and Principate

Ancient Greek and Latin language study from introductory grammar to unadapted translation

Methodologies for evaluating ancient literary texts, inscriptions, and material artifacts

Greek and Roman philosophical debates on ethics, nature, human values, and governance

Historiographical analysis and deconstruction of bias within classical source material

Independent research methodologies and advanced historical dissertation writing

Learning Outcomes

By the conclusion of this degree, students will possess an extensive, highly nuanced knowledge of ancient Mediterranean history, spanning the socio-political structures, intellectual traditions, and material cultures of Classical Greece and Rome. Learners will demonstrate the ability to critically evaluate diverse primary sources—ranging from classical literature and administrative inscriptions to archaeological remains—while identifying the inherent limitations, biases, and contextual challenges of historical evidence. Through integrated language modules and methodological training, students develop practical skills in textual translation, source criticism, and rigorous argument construction. The program's flexible structure enables individuals to specialize in specific geographical regions, historical epochs, or thematic subjects, culminating in a substantial independent research project. Ultimately, graduates emerge with high-level conceptual literacy, cross-cultural awareness, and the analytical precision required to assess complex information and communicate persuasive, evidence-based conclusions in modern academic and professional environments.