Classics and Ancient History

Summary

On this course, you will gain substantial research experience, working alongside our leading subject specialists. You will engage with a broad range of research methods, including some of the most influential theoretical positions and methodologies in classical scholarship and academic enquiry. You will improve your knowledge of ancient languages. You will experience an approach to assessment which spans both ‘traditional’ assignments and innovative forms including authoring an article.

This research-focused programme is designed to enhance the abilities of classics and ancient history students to conduct research at a high intellectual, methodological and theoretical level. You will receive training and guidance on conducting a piece of original research and its written presentation from a specialist in your area of interest on the programme team. The course will offer focused preparation for doctoral research. It will also present specific preparation for a range of professional careers that require highly-developed research and writing skills.

As part of the intensive research training on offer, you will engage critically and creatively with classical texts, objects and images, and with their reception in later periods of history. The knowledge and experience of working with a variety of media will underlie your own original and innovative studies of the classical past. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to receive focused instruction in relevant subject areas for example epigraphy, numismatics and material culture. To bolster further your classical research skills, we offer tuition in both Latin and Ancient Greek, knowledge of which underpins a successful career in classical academia. As well as developing your practical research skills, the course will provide a deep understanding of the theoretical concepts that inform academic enquiry in classics and ancient history. Using your improved knowledge, understanding and critical awareness of the research methods, you will be in a position to contribute to the national and international research profile of classical studies at Roehampton and to take advantage of opportunities for co-operation and collaboration in the UK and beyond.

Career Options

As a research-focused programme, which also requires students to build up their competence in language study, the programme trains students in skills that are vital for doctoral-level research and academic careers.

This course is also preparation for a range of professional careers that require highly developed research and writing skills. They include careers in museums, schools, heritage sites and specialist publishing as well as in the media, in archives and libraries or the civil service.

Students should usually hold a second-class honours degree (certain programmes may require a 2:1) from a recognised British or overseas university. Non-graduates with appropriate professional qualifications will be considered on an individual basis by Programme Conveners.