University of Reading United Kingdom

BA Ancient History

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The BA Ancient History at the University of Reading invites you to explore the foundational civilisations of Greece and Rome, investigating their complex societies, political structures, and cultural achievements. This undergraduate degree is ideal for those fascinated by the origins of Western civilisation and its enduring impact on the modern world. You will engage with primary sources, develop critical analytical skills, and learn to reconstruct historical narratives using diverse evidence, from textual analysis to archaeological findings. Prepare to delve into debates surrounding ancient history and understand its relevance today.

This full-time, on-campus BA Ancient History programme is studied over three years. Your learning journey will involve exploring key periods like the Archaic Age of Greece and the Roman Republic, alongside modules on ancient texts, material culture, and the role of museums. You will have opportunities to develop language skills in Latin and Ancient Greek, and in your final year, you will undertake a significant independent research project or dissertation. You will graduate with a strong foundation in historical inquiry and critical thinking, prepared for diverse careers in heritage, education, research, or public service.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA Ancient History program offers a comprehensive exploration of the ancient world across three years. Students will delve into key periods of Greek and Roman history, examining their societies, wars, and political transformations. The curriculum also emphasizes critical engagement with historical texts and the relevance of the past in contemporary contexts, with opportunities for language study and specialized modules in areas like ancient art, literature, and museum studies.

1 YEAR 1

Greek History: War, Society, and Change in the Archaic Age Compulsory
Roman History: The Rise and Fall of the Republic Compulsory
Texts, Readers and Writers Compulsory
The Past in the Present Compulsory
Ancient Song Optional
Latin 1-3 Optional
Ancient Greek 1-3 Optional
Presenting the Past Optional
Optional Language or University Wide Modules Optional

2 YEAR 2

Greek History: Persian Wars to Alexander Compulsory
Roman History: From Republic to Empire Compulsory
Careers for Classicists and Ancient Historians Compulsory
Careers for Classicists and Ancient Historians with Placement Compulsory
Curatorship and Collections Management Compulsory
Ancient Epic Optional
Ancient Drama Optional
Ancient Greek 1-4 Optional
Latin 1-4 Optional
Greek Sculpture and Architecture Optional
My Mother's Sin and Other Stories Optional
Museum Learning and Engagement Optional
Optional Language or University Wide Modules Optional

3 YEAR 3

Dissertation in Classics Compulsory
Independent Project in Classics Compulsory
Latin 1-6 Optional
Ancient Greek 1-6 Optional
Greek and Roman Painting Optional
'Race' and Ethnicity in the Ancient Greek and Roman Worlds Optional
From Classroom to Courtroom: Mastering the Art of Persuasion in the Ancient World Optional
Optional Language or University Wide Modules Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,941.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,941.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,941.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 104,824.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,126.00 - USD 18,832.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 645.00 - USD 1,289.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 1,934.00
Estimated Total USD 4,190.00 - USD 7,251.00

Living cost estimates are based on WhiteKnights Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Aerospace Engineering & DesignAlternative Aviation Fuel & SustainabilityAviation Maintenance & RepairBrand ManagementClient Services & Account ManagementCreative Production & Project ManagementDefense & Military AviationEvent & Experiential MarketingPublic RelationsUnmanned Aerial Vehicles (Drones)

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Kings College London

Manchester City Council

Why Study BA Ancient History at University of Reading

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Reading in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BA Ancient History at University of Reading

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed for degree courses.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To apply for the BA Ancient History, you must meet specific English language requirements. Accepted tests include Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE, each with designated score thresholds.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as historians, museum curators, archaeologists, and educators.

What will I actually study in this course?

This degree focuses on the ancient cultures of Greece and Rome, exploring their societies and beliefs. You'll study the political, literary, and cultural contexts from 2000 BC to 600 AD.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BA Ancient History program accepts students every September. Make sure to prepare your application well in advance to secure your spot.
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