UCAS code Q810
Classical Studies allows you to study the society and culture of the Greek and Roman worlds, including their art, religion, history, and archaeology, studying their literary and visual cultures against the backdrop of the history of the period.
By examining a range of literary, documentary and visual evidence, you will develop critical skills of interpretation and understanding of methodological problems, plus knowledge of core theories, concepts and approaches. At the same time, you’ll learn how to read, describe and comment upon current research, promoting insights into the history of the discipline and encouraging you to tackle questions of central interest today, taking particular advantage of the research specialisms of Liverpool staff. The Classical Studies programme also invites students to explore the close relationship between the Graeco-Roman world and modern responses to it. In addition, you have the chance to further broaden your understanding of Ancient Greek and Roman society and culture while studying Ancient Greek or Latin from beginner to advanced.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
Students take 45 credits of required modules and 30 credits of optional modules in each semester.
CLAH100, CLAH113, ALGY130 and ALGY150 are all 30 credits and take place across both semesters (accounting for 15 credits in each semester). Students may opt to take Greek Worlds 1 and/or Roman Worlds 1 on a 30-credit basis.
Students cannot take both Ancient Greek and Latin. Semester one modules are pre-requisite for semester two modules (e.g. students must complete Latin 1a to take Latin 1b). The level is dependent on ability; in general, beginners join Latin or Ancient Greek 1a and b; those with an AS level join Latin or Ancient Greek 2a and 2b; those with an A level join Latin or Ancient Greek 3a and 3b. Students with other qualifications should seek advice from the Subject Lead.
Students should follow these rules for the Egyptology modules:
ALGY130 must be taken alongside ALGY128 and ALGY123 . These are all pre-requisites for Egyptology modules in years 2 and 3.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| FRAMING ANTIQUITY (CLAH100) | 30 |
| INTRODUCTION TO CLASSICAL LITERATURE (CLAH113) | 30 |
| GREEK WORLDS 1 (CLAH134) | 15 |
| ROMAN WORLDS 1 (CLAH135) | 15 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change. This course has been updated for 2027 entry as part of a review of all our programmes. This review has considered refining study pathways, strengthening links with employers, integrating generative AI, developing students’ research skills, and enhancing alignment with our research strengths. Please note, as at all times, the University reserves the right to make reasonable changes, including to content, entry requirements, or fees, or to discontinue programmes. Applicants will be informed of any significant change.
Students must take 30 credits of required modules and 30 credits of optional modules in each semester.
Students must check they meet any prerequisites for individual modules.
Special Topics run in alternate years and topics may be subject to change; if a student is particularly interested in a certain topic, they must choose it this academic year, since it may not be available next academic year.
Students cannot take both Ancient Greek and Latin. Semester one modules are prerequisite for semester two modules (e.g. students must complete Latin 1a to take Latin 1b). The level is dependent on ability; in general, beginners join Latin or Ancient Greek 1a and b; those with an AS level join Latin or Ancient Greek 2a and 2b; those with an A level join Latin or Ancient Greek 3a and 3b. Students with other qualifications should seek advice from the Subject Lead.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| GREEK LITERARY CULTURES (CLAH236) | 30 |
| ROMAN LITERARY CULTURES (CLAH235) | 30 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change. This course has been updated for 2027 entry as part of a review of all our programmes. This review has considered refining study pathways, strengthening links with employers, integrating generative AI, developing students’ research skills, and enhancing alignment with our research strengths. Please note, as at all times, the University reserves the right to make reasonable changes, including to content, entry requirements, or fees, or to discontinue programmes. Applicants will be informed of any significant change.
Students take 45 credits of optional modules in each semester and a required dissertation (ALGY450).
Students must check they meet any prerequisites for individual modules.
Students can choose either Ancient Greek or Latin. Semester one modules are prerequisite for semester two modules (e.g. students must complete Latin 1a to take Latin 1b). The level is dependent on ability; in general, beginners join Latin or Ancient Greek 1a and b; those with an AS level join Latin or Ancient Greek 2a and 2b; those with an A level join Latin or Ancient Greek 3a and 3b. Students with other qualifications should seek advice from the Subject Lead.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| DISSERTATION (ALGY450) | 30 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change. This course has been updated for 2027 entry as part of a review of all our programmes. This review has considered refining study pathways, strengthening links with employers, integrating generative AI, developing students’ research skills, and enhancing alignment with our research strengths. Please note, as at all times, the University reserves the right to make reasonable changes, including to content, entry requirements, or fees, or to discontinue programmes. Applicants will be informed of any significant change.
In year one a group of four core modules provides you with a solid introduction to the breadth of Graeco-Roman society and culture, and helps you develop the skills you will require for later in-depth study. In year two you will study aspects of Greek and Roman literature, art, language, intellectual culture, and modern receptions of the ancient world more intensely. In year three, modules are centred on key figures, genres, and themes continue to develop your skills, depth, and focus. Your dissertation will give you the opportunity to undertake detailed and independent research under the guidance of an expert adviser. The subject matter itself will be your own choice.
Modules are delivered through a mixture of lectures, seminars, workshops and practical sessions. Lectures introduce key topics, evidence and debates, while seminars and workshops provide opportunities to discuss sources, scholarship and interpretations in greater detail. Practical sessions may be used in some modules to develop digital and research skills.
Independent study is expected throughout the programme, including preparation for classes, reading primary and secondary sources, conducting research and responding to feedback. Course materials are available through the University’s online learning environment, and students are supported through guidance and feedback from academic staff. Opportunities may also be available through study trips and placement-based learning.
Classical Studies is assessed in a variety of ways.
Examinations: learning outcomes are demonstrated through written examinations that may assess knowledge, analysis, interpretation and language skills.
Assessed coursework, including essays, reports and projects: learning outcomes are demonstrated through independent research, critical analysis and the presentation of evidence-based arguments.
Quizzes, portfolios and project-based assessments: learning outcomes are demonstrated through the application and synthesis of knowledge, research and skills developed throughout a module.
Interviews and oral assessments: some language modules may include oral assessment to evaluate communication, translation and linguistic skills.
At Liverpool, we take a distinctive approach to education through the Liverpool Learning Framework. This means teaching that is engaging, inclusive and designed to help you succeed during your studies and beyond.
You’ll develop specialist subject knowledge alongside the skills employers value most, including:
Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:
We also embed key priorities across our curriculum, including AI literacy, employability, and sustainability, helping you prepare for the future and make a positive impact in the world.
We’re committed to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive.
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
University of Liverpool students can choose from an exciting range of study placements at partner universities worldwide. Choose to spend a year at XJTLU in China or a year or semester at an institution of your choice.
Immerse yourself in Chinese culture on an optional additional year at Xi'an Jiaotong Liverpool University in stunning Suzhou.
Broaden your world by spending an additional year of study at a partner university abroad following your second year of study.
Take a semester of your second year of study at one of our worldwide partner institutions.
Spend a summer abroad on a study placement or research project at one of our worldwide partner institutions.
Every student at The University of Liverpool can study a language as part of, or alongside their degree. You can choose:
With a combined degree, you can study two subjects as part of the same degree programme.
Explore combined degrees for Archaeology, Classics and Egyptology courses
The Department of Archaeology, Classics and Egyptology is part of the School of Histories, Languages and Cultures. Teaching takes place across campus, including in specialist facilities in the Central Teaching Hub.
From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:
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The skills learnt on a Classical Studies degree offer a wide range of possibilities. Graduates of this programme which combines a range of analytical skills can expect to have good access to careers in industry, commerce, finance, education and public service. The programme will also prepare students for postgraduate study or further training
Graduates of this programme have good access to careers in the following industries:
Recent employers include: