There is an old saying, ‘to know where you are going, you need to know where you have come from’. This is very appropriate when describing the focus of a classics degree. The qualification offers a unique insight into how society, politics and culture developed and evolved from some of the classic civilisations of the past. It combines several disciplines, from history to anthropology, contributing to a rich understanding of the modern world. We explain what a classics degree offers, what you’ll learn and what the degree can lead to after graduation.
What is a classics degree?
In a classics degree, you’ll study all about the ancient Greek and Roman worlds. This will include but is not limited to their history, language, literature, philosophy and the impact this has had on our culture today. You’ll become familiar with the archaeology and notable periods of these civilisations. Further, you’ll have the opportunity to learn the Greek and Latin languages. It is a way of gaining understanding and access to knowledge of these cultures from original sources. While each classics degree may differ in its focus, you can expect to graduate with a detailed and comprehensive knowledge of the ancient worlds of Greece and Rome.
Why study classics?
You may think that a classics degree is a more academic or intellectual pursuit, rather than a degree that equips you with important skills for the 21st century. But you’d be wrong. A classics degree allows you to develop skills such as:
- Communication
- Research
- Critical thinking
- Analysis and interpretation
- Literacy and language
While ancient civilisations may have reached their peak many centuries ago, their influence on cultures in the world is evident today. An understanding of how modern society is structured and functions by understanding its past can help in contributing to change and making an impact in improving aspects that no longer work well.
Find out more about unusual careers for humanities graduates.
What will I learn in a classics degree?
Your classics degree curriculum will differ depending on what university you study at and what electives you choose to take. However, generally, you will have a holistic interdisciplinary undergraduate degree that covers some essential areas. These include:
- Ancient Greek and Latin language
- Ancient literary texts
- Homer
- Plato
- Cicero
- Ancient history
- Classical Archaeology
- Classical Art
- Philosophy
- Linguistics
As you move into further years of undergraduate study, you will find yourself studying more specific areas of the above, including Greek and Latin translation. The written works of the Greeks and Romans form a significant portion of the materials you'll study in detail during your degree.
For their time, these cultures had a wide range of literature. It’s by studying these writings that you get an idea of what it was like to live in the period and what people believed, including mythology. You may even recognise some from modern films, books and television series. In many ways, a classics degree is also a specialised history degree. The history of the Greek and Roman cultures is extremely vast, with discoveries still being made.
Discover if the humanities could be for you.
What are the entry requirements for a classics degree?
To be accepted to study a classics degree, you'll need to meet some minimum requirements. These are:
- Minimum of AAB A-levels (equivalent to 3.3 to 4.0 GPA)
- A minimum International Baccalaureate score of 36
- An IELTS score (or equivalent) of 6.5 with no band lower than 6.0
Some universities may also require that you submit examples of your work and sit for an admissions test. Be sure to check with your prospective university as to what is needed.
What to do after a classics degree?
You may think that because classics is an academic degree, it may not help you stand out in a competitive job market. This underestimates some of the valuable skills you’ll develop, that many employers look out for. Because the degree is so multidisciplinary and intellectually rigorous, you’re set up to undertake work in various sectors, including:
- Research
- Teaching
- Media and journalism
- Film
- Publishing
- Law
- Heritage and culture
- Public sector organisations and government
- Marketing
- HR
Over 83 per cent of classics degree graduates are in further work or study within six months of finishing a qualification (Graduate Prospects). Don’t forget that a classics degree also qualifies you for a postgraduate degree in many other subjects, including vocational qualifications, so you can specialise should you wish to progress in a particular sphere.
A classics degree offers you a varied curriculum, exciting topics and the prospect of developing your professional skills. With so much to offer, it is a great choice. If you want to get more information on what to expect, you may find our guide to humanities degrees helpful. Don’t forget you can also find your perfect classics degree by using our course matcher tool.
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