UCAS code V110
Studying Ancient History BA (Hons) provides you with an understanding of the political, social, cultural, economic and military history of Ancient Greece and Rome, alongside parallel ancient cultures of the Mediterranean world.
You will examine how individuals and communities organised themselves, met the challenges of daily life and extraordinary events, and responded to change in the context of shifting power relations and radical new ideas.
Ancient history comes to us through challenging, incomplete, diverse and contradictory types of evidence: documentary, material and visual. Through the course, you will learn to engage critically with these ancient sources and assess the latest developments in the field.
Alongside your studies, you may also choose to learn Latin and/or Greek, from beginner to advanced levels.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| GREEK WORLDS 1 (CLAH124) | 30 |
| FRAMING ANTIQUITY (CLAH100) | 30 |
| ROMAN WORLDS 1 (CLAH125) | 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.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| GREEK WORLDS 2 (CLAH284) | 30 |
| ROMAN WORLDS 2 (CLAH285) | 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 each semester and a required dissertation (ALGY450).
Students must check that they meet any prerequisites for individual modules.
Students can choose Ancient Greek or Latin. Semester 1 modules are prerequisites for Semester 2 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.
| 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 this programme you can combine a study of the social, political, and cultural history of Ancient Greece and Rome equally with another subject. You will have the chance to study a wide range of periods and themes in social and cultural history.
In year one, you develop your knowledge of the main themes and events in Greek and Roman history, and the skills required to assess them.
Further modules expand the range of source material with which you are familiar.
Year two broadens your knowledge and improves the skills you have acquired. You will study ancient texts and reflect on the nature of history.
Year three modules centre on key figures and themes reflecting the research interests of the Department. You have the option of writing a dissertation on a research topic of your choice.
Modules are delivered through a mixture of lectures, seminars, workshops and practical sessions. In year one, students develop a foundation in the ancient Mediterranean world and the methods used to study it. In years two and three, learning becomes increasingly research-led and student-centred, with opportunities for specialist study through optional modules and language classes. Independent study is supported through guided learning activities, developmental feedback and research tasks. Academic staff are available through office hours for one-to-one support, course materials are available through Canvas, and students have access to a range of academic and pastoral support services.
Lectures combine the delivery of information, concepts and debates with discussion of sources, methods and approaches to historical enquiry.
Seminars are small-group discussion sessions in which students analyse evidence and develop critical and communication skills through active participation and independent preparation. Language classes follow a seminar format.
Workshops and practical sessions provide opportunities for active learning, including engagement with material culture, research methods and digital humanities tools.
Independent study supports and prepares students for in-class learning through reading, research, seminar preparation and project work. Students are encouraged to develop increasing independence throughout the programme, culminating in an independent research project.
Experiential learning opportunities, including study trips and placements, may allow students to apply their knowledge and skills beyond the classroom while developing their employability.
Ancient History is assessed through a variety of inclusive and authentic methods that enable students to demonstrate their learning through different forms of evidence and communication.
Examinations assess knowledge, understanding and analysis through essay questions, source analysis and, where appropriate, language-based assessment.
Assessed coursework, including essays, commentaries, reports, projects and portfolios, enables students to demonstrate research skills, critical analysis and evidence-based argument.
Quizzes and class tests may be used to assess understanding of key concepts and subject-specific skills.
Oral assessments, including presentations and interviews, assess communication skills and, in language modules, may involve authentic disciplinary tasks such as translation and interpretation.
Project-based and reflective assessments may be used to assess research, problem-solving, professional skills and critical engagement with digital technologies, including generative AI.
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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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.
Our graduates progress to a range of careers including
Recent employers include: