DEGREE GUIDE

Classics

What do Classics degrees involve?

Classics degrees teach you about the languages, literature, history, and culture of the ancient world, focusing on civilisations such as Greece and Rome. You will study key areas such as Latin and Ancient Greek, classical philosophy, mythology, archaeology, and ancient history. Classics degrees typically involve learning Latin and/or Ancient Greek, allowing you to engage with classical texts in their original form, while Classical Civilisation degrees focus more on history, literature, and culture, without a language requirement. These courses help you develop strong analytical, research, and critical thinking skills while exploring how ancient ideas continue to shape modern society. Many programmes include opportunities for archaeological fieldwork, historical analysis, and engagement with classical texts, providing both academic depth and practical experience.

Example
Modules

Interpreting Ancient Literature: Explore classical texts through close reading and critical analysis, focusing on themes, style and historical context.

Greek Myth: Narratives and Sources: Study myths from ancient Greece, looking at their origins, meanings and the different ways they have been interpreted over time.

Ancient Greek Theatre: Examine the role of tragedy and comedy in Greek society, exploring performance, politics and the cultural impact of major playwrights.

Common Degree Names

💼 Some courses offer placements in museums, archives, schools or cultural organisations.
🌍 Study abroad is commonly available, especially for Classical Civilisation degrees and through university partnerships in Europe.

BA (Hons) Classics
BA (Hons) Classics with Latin and Greek
BA (Hons) Classics and Ancient History
BA (Hons) Classical Civilisation
BA (Hons) Classical Civilisation and English
BA (Hons) Classical Studies and Archaeology
BA (Hons) Classical Civilisation and Philosophy

Classics degrees usually include the study of ancient Greek and Latin, while Classical Civilisation focuses more on literature, history, philosophy and culture, often with no language requirement.

Level 3 (A-level / IB Diploma (HL) / Scottish Highers)

Classics explores the languages, literature, history, and culture of Ancient Greece and Rome. Entry requirements vary depending on whether the degree includes Latin or Greek language study.

Universities usually expect:

English Literature or History – highly recommended for reading and analysis
Classical Civilisation – helpful if offered, but not required
Latin or Ancient Greek – may be required for language-focused courses, but many accept beginners
Religious Studies, Philosophy, or a Modern Language – valued for analytical and linguistic ability

✨ At least one essay-based subject is usually expected. You don't need Latin or Greek to apply to most Classics degrees – many teach ancient languages from scratch.

Universities may also accept:

BTEC Extended Diplomas in Humanities or related areas, often alongside an academic A-level like English or History

✨ Be sure to check the specific course structure—some degrees focus heavily on languages, while others are more historical or cultural. University websites will make this clear.

Level 2 Qualifications (GCSE / MYP / National 5)

Most universities expect:

GCSE English Language and Maths at grade 4/C or above, or National 5s or MYP equivalents

📘 GCSE Classical Civilisation, Latin, or Ancient History (or equivalent), if available, can help build a strong foundation—but they’re not required. Strong performance in English and Humanities subjects is especially important.

💬 Interviews
Most universities don’t require interviews for Classics. However, Oxford and Cambridge do include an academic interview, where you’ll be asked to discuss texts, ideas, and your interest in the subject.

📝 Admissions Tests
If you’re applying to Oxford, you may be asked to take the Classics Admissions Test (CAT), especially if you’re applying for a course that includes Latin or Greek. Cambridge may require a written assessment—check the course page for details.

🎓 Written Work
Some universities (especially Oxbridge and others with traditional humanities programmes) may ask for a recent school essay or written sample.

If your qualifications don't match the usual entry requirements, there are some other possibilities.

🌱 Foundation Year in Humanities or Classics
Ideal if you don’t have the usual subjects or are coming from a non-traditional route. These programmes prepare you for language study and academic writing.

🎓 Access to HE Diploma (Humanities or History)
An Access course focused on History, Literature, or Philosophy can prepare you for Classics. Aim for Merits and Distinctions, particularly in essay-based subjects. Some universities may still require GCSE English and/or Latin separately.

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