Ancient History

Course details
If you are fascinated by the history of the Greeks and Romans, this is the course for you. We will introduce you to the world of ancient Greece and Rome, and their interactions with each other and other Mediterranean societies.

Why Durham University?
Explore the artistic, historical, literary, linguistic, cultural, scientific, and philosophical aspects of the Greek and Roman world, studying in one of the largest and most vibrant departments in the UK at the heart of a World Heritage Site.

Our degrees offer both academic rigour and an outstanding student experience, taught by a team of academic staff who between them specialise in the languages, literature, history, and culture of the Greco-Roman world, as well as its impact on later centuries up to the present day.

The breadth of knowledge in the Department allows us to offer a wide range of study areas including ancient Greek and Latin languages from beginner to advanced level, literature in translation, history of various areas of the ancient Mediterranean, and many more aspects of classical culture, including philosophy, art and science.

Rankings
Top 10 in the QS World University Subject Rankings 2025
3rd in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025
4th in The Guardian University Guide 2025

Career Opportunities
Our students acquire many skills which are readily transferable to a whole range of professions.
Classics graduates have progressed to careers as diverse as computing, the Civil Service, gold dealing, teaching, journalism, law, accountancy, public relations and the theatre.