Classics and Ancient History MA

Course overview

From the epic poetry of Homer to the archaeology of the Roman Empire, the MA in Classics and Ancient History at Leeds offers you the opportunity to study the ancient Mediterranean world in all its diversity. Spanning literature, history, philosophy, religion, and material culture, this programme allows you to explore the ancient world on your own terms, supported by expert staff and access to exceptional local resources.

Classics at Leeds is grounded in a rich tradition of interdisciplinary teaching and research. You’ll encounter a range of approaches to the ancient past — from critical text-based methods to new ways of thinking about gender, empire, reception, and materiality. You’ll be encouraged to engage with ancient sources in their original languages or in translation, and to consider how the past continues to shape the present.

Leeds is uniquely positioned as the only university in the region offering a dedicated MA in Classics and Ancient History. Students benefit from close working relationships with partners in the city, and the University’s Cultural Collections, which house rare books and artefacts from the ancient world. Through these partnerships, you'll have the opportunity to undertake placements and pursue original research using real archival material.

Whether you’re preparing for doctoral study or careers in education, heritage, or the wider cultural sector, this MA provides a flexible, research-led foundation for advanced engagement with the ancient world — and for becoming part of a vibrant, supportive academic community.

Course highlights

• Research-led teaching in a distinctive regional setting: As the region’s leading centre for postgraduate study in Classics and Ancient History, Leeds provides distinctive opportunities for advanced study and public engagement in the humanities.
• Access to rare and valuable materials: Students have hands-on access to the University’s Cultural Collections — including coins, papyri, early printed books, and artefacts relating to the ancient world — and will have opportunities to undertake placements with partner organisations outside the university as part of the optional Classics in Public Life module.
• Flexible, interdisciplinary study: Alongside dedicated core modules, students can choose from optional language, literature, or history modules. These are based on our full suite of Level 3 undergraduate modules, giving you maximum choice of topics, but with enhanced postgraduate supervision tailored to your interests and prior experience.
• Supportive, research-active staff community: Our academic team includes experts in ancient history, ancient languages, classical literature, ancient philosophy, classical reception studies, and more — offering students the chance to engage with a broad range of research specialisms and participate in the vibrant research culture of the School of Languages, Cultures and Societies.
• Industry work experience opportunities: Enhance your career prospects and give your CV that competitive edge before you graduate with the chance to undertake an optional work placement, gaining invaluable hands-on experience that’s attractive to employers.

Guaranteed work experience

While studying at Leeds, you’ll have the chance to work with a business and gain consultancy experience as part of a 2-week virtual Global Industry Programme.

As well as giving you the opportunity to build key industry connections, you’ll also develop invaluable professional and practical skills that are highly valued by employers.

Course details and modules

The MA in Classics and Ancient History offers a structured yet flexible programme that allows students to explore the ancient world in depth while developing advanced academic and professional skills.

The core modules are designed to build your ability to undertake independent research, communicate your ideas effectively, and engage critically with ancient texts, artefacts, and historical debates.

Optional modules allow you to tailor your studies to your interests and goals. You can choose from topics such as ancient languages (Greek or Latin at all levels), thematic modules in ancient history and literature, or placement-based modules in partnership with external partners. You’ll also attend research seminars and workshops, helping you to become part of the wider Classics community at Leeds.

If you study this programme full time, you’ll complete all 180 credits within one academic year. If you choose to study part time, you’ll complete the same content over two years, typically studying 90 credits each year. You’ll work closely with your tutors to plan a pathway that suits your needs and commitments.

By the end of the course, you'll have developed advanced skills in research, critical thinking, communication, and analysis — as well as a deep, nuanced understanding of the ancient world and its legacy.

The programme comprises 180 credits, including two compulsory core modules and a range of optional modules. You'll take:

• Dissertation (Compulsory)
• 60 credits: Research Skills in Classics and Ancient History (Compulsory)
• 60 credits: Optional modules (2 x 30 credits)

Compulsory Modules

Dissertation – 60 credits
The dissertation is an extended piece of independent research on a topic of your choosing, developed in consultation with a supervisor. This module allows you to engage deeply with primary sources and scholarly debates, developing advanced research, critical analysis, and academic writing skills. Most importantly, the dissertation gives you the opportunity to make fresh discoveries about the ancient world and contribute your own voice to the field.

Research Skills in Classics and Ancient History – 60 credits

This module is at the heart of the MA and brings the group together for regular discussion and training sessions, building the invaluable research skills you’ll need to undertake your independent dissertation. It provides the essential training required for advanced research in the discipline and includes sessions on source analysis, historiography, digital tools, language skills, research ethics, and current trends and new research in the field. Alongside attending research seminars, you’ll present your own work in progress, with the module culminating in a research presentation designed to help shape and support your dissertation.

Optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)

Research-led optional modules in Classics and Ancient History – 30 credits Choose from a selection of modules in our areas of research specialisms. The modules available vary from year to year, but there are typically around 8 to choose from, covering topics in all areas of Classics and Ancient History.

Ancient Greek or Latin Language – 30 credits
Designed to accommodate beginners through to advanced learners, these modules support the development of reading and translation skills in either Greek or Latin. Students are guided through grammar, syntax, and selected texts, with tailored assignments appropriate for the postgraduate level. At the most advanced level, a commentary module allows detailed analysis of a specific Greek or Latin text.

Learning and teaching

At Leeds, you’ll study Classics and Ancient History in an environment shaped by cutting-edge research, inclusive learning practices, and a strong sense of academic community.

You’ll learn through a combination of small-group seminars, language classes, interactive workshops, research training sessions, and independent study, supported by digital tools and online resources. Most of your modules, especially optional ones, will be taught through regular tutorials and seminars where you’ll engage with ancient texts, visual material, and scholarly debates in dialogue with your peers and tutors.

Our teaching staff are internationally recognised researchers working across ancient history, literature, philosophy, religion, and reception studies. Their research directly shapes what you learn — from the design of modules to the sources, approaches, and perspectives you’ll explore. You’ll be taught primarily by academic staff based in Classics, with contributions from colleagues in other subject areas where relevant. In some modules, you may also learn from professionals working in museums, archives, and other cultural institutions, ensuring a rich and varied learning experience.

You’ll receive individual supervision for your dissertation, and staff offer regular office hours to support your learning throughout the year. As part of the wider research community in the School of Languages, Cultures and Societies, you’ll also be encouraged to attend research seminars, guest lectures, and workshops — creating opportunities to connect with scholars and students across disciplines.

We are committed toinclusive, active learningthat values your contributions and supports you as a developing researcher. Whether you’re returning to study or continuing from an undergraduate degree, you’ll be welcomed into a supportive and collaborative academic environment where your interests and voice matter.

Specialist resources

As a student on the MA in Classics and Ancient History, you’ll have access to a range of world-class resources that support advanced study and original research. The University of Leeds is home to the Brotherton Library, one of the UK's leading research libraries, with extensive holdings in Classical literature, ancient history, philosophy, and archaeology. Its collections include both modern scholarship and rare texts, alongside a wealth of online databases containing primary source material, inscriptions, papyri, and digitised manuscripts.

The University’s Cultural Collections house rare and unique materials relevant to the ancient world, including early printed editions of classical texts and medieval commentaries, as well as artefacts that bring ancient cultures to life. These collections are integrated into teaching and provide opportunities for hands-on research and dissertation work.

In addition, we work with a range of partners in the cultural and heritage sectors to give students opportunities for placement-based modules, access to collections and hands-on training in curatorial and public engagement work. While opportunities vary from year to year, these collaborations are designed to help you connect your academic learning with real-world experience and enhance your skillset.

Together, these facilities provide an outstanding environment for in-depth study of the ancient world, while embedding you in the broader cultural and archival landscape of Leeds.

On this course, you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.

Assessment

You'll be assessed through a variety of methods designed to support your academic development and reflect real-world research and communication skills. These include essays, dissertation projects, source commentaries, translations, oral presentations, portfolio work, and, where appropriate, placement-based reflective assessments. In some modules, you may have a choice of assessment type — for example, between a written essay and an oral presentation — to suit different learning styles and strengths.

All assessments are designed to be fair, inclusive, and relevant, with clear marking criteria and opportunities for formative feedback. You’ll also receive guidance and skills training to support your success in each type of assignment.

Our assessments are structured to help you develop a range of transferable skills — including critical thinking, independent research, evidence-based argumentation, and clear written and verbal communication. You'll be encouraged to explore topics that interest you and to engage with a range of ancient and modern sources, allowing you to construct arguments that are both rigorous and original.

Placement and object-based modules may include more authentic, applied assessments, such as curatorial reports or public-facing interpretative work, giving you experience relevant to careers in heritage, education, and research.

All submitted work is marked according to clear and consistent criteria, with second marking and moderation processes in place to ensure transparency and fairness.

Applying

Entry requirements

You’ll need a bachelor degree with a 2:1 (hons) or equivalent qualification, preferably in a Arts or Humanities related degree. We will consider applicants across the entire scope of subjects in arts and humanities.

Related subjects:

• Ancient & Classical Studies: Ancient History, Classics, Classical Civilisation, Ancient Languages (Latin, Ancient Greek), Archaeology
• Philosophy, Religion & Thought: Philosophy, Theology, Religious Studies

• History & Cultural Studies: History, Art History, Social History, Medieval Studies, Renaissance Studies, Cultural Studies, Heritage Studies, Cultural Heritage Management

• Literature & Language: English, Literature, Comparative Literature, Modern Languages, Linguistics, Philology, Translation Studies.

Other subjects:

• Arts & Performance: Drama and Theatre Studies, Film Studies, Fine Art, Visual Culture, Performance Studies, Creative Writing, Design, Architecture
• Social Sciences: Anthropology, Sociology, Political Science, International Relations, Education, Gender Studies, Human Geography
• Heritage/Cultural Management & Digital Fields: Museum and Gallery Studies, Library and Information Studies, Digital Humanities, Media and Communication

We will also consider applicants with relevant experience, an interest in the study of the ancient world broadly defined or coming from an area of expertise to which the study of classics and ancient history is complementary.

We welcome applicants from a diverse range of subject disciplines so please do not hesitate to apply if your subject is not listed. If you have any questions about subjects we will accept, please contact our admissions team.

All applicants will be required to respond to the questions in the supporting statement section of the online application form to explain why you wish to study this particular course and your career plans. Relevant professional experience may also be considered. We may request additional documentation to inform our decision.

International qualifications

Our admissions team are experienced in considering a wide range of international qualifications. To see equivalent entry requirements for your country, check our international entry requirement directory.

If you wish to discuss whether your qualifications will meet the necessary entry criteria, contact the School’s admissions team – lcspg@leeds.ac.uk

English language requirements

IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in all components. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English

International students who do not meet the English language requirements for this programme may be able to study our postgraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

This pre-sessional course is designed with a progression route to your degree programme and you’ll learn academic English in the context of your subject area. To find out more, read Language for Arts and Humanities (6 weeks) and Language for Social Science and Arts: Arts and Humanities (10 weeks).

We also offer online pre-sessionals alongside our on-campus pre-sessionals. Find out more about our six week online pre-sessional and our 10 week online pre-sessional. 

You can also study pre-sessionals for longer periods – read about our postgraduate pre-sessional English courses.

How to apply

Please see our How to Apply page for information about application deadlines

The ‘Apply’ link at the top of this page will take you to information on applying for taught programmes and to the University's online application system.

If you intend to apply for funding, we advise you to submit an application for your chosen course as early as possible. If applying for a scholarship, please apply at least one month before any scholarship deadline

If you're unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

The ‘Apply’ link at the top of this page will take you to information on applying for taught programmes and to the University's online application system.

If you're unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Support for part-time and mature learners

The Lifelong Learning Centre provides support for mature and part-time learners across the University, including advice on how to apply to university and support throughout your studies.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Admissions Policy 2026

This course is taught by

School of Languages, Cultures and Societies

Contact us

Taught Postgraduate Admissions Team

Email: lcspg@leeds.ac.uk

Fees

UK: £12,500 (Total)

International: £28,000 (Total)

For fees information for international taught postgraduate students, read Masters fees.

Part-time fees
Fees for part-time courses are normally calculated based on the number of credits you study in a year compared to the equivalent full-time course. For example, if you study half the course credits in a year, you will pay half the full-time course fees for that year.

Additional cost information

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.

Scholarships and financial support

Scholarships are also available to help fund your Masters. Find out more and check your eligibility below:

• Scholarships for International students
• Scholarships and funding for UK students
• Your subject area may also offer scholarships

Career opportunities

We expect our graduates of the MA in Classics and Ancient History to go on to a wide variety of careers that draw on their critical thinking, research skills, and deep cultural knowledge. The degree can act as a springboard for doctoral study and academic research, while the programme also acts as an ideal preparation to pursue roles in teaching, museums, archives, education, publishing, policy, and the wider heritage and cultural sectors.

This course also provides a strong foundation for careers in journalism, law, civil service, consultancy, communications, and the charity sector. The ability to research independently, analyse complex material, and communicate effectively makes Classics graduates highly sought after across industries.

Possible roles include:

• Museum curator or education officer
• Archivist or heritage consultant
• Researcher or policy analyst
• Teacher or academic lecturer
• Editor, publisher, or content strategist
• Communications officer or fundraising coordinator
• Graduate trainee roles in civil service, law, or consultancy

Through opportunities for placement-based learning and research-led projects, you’ll also develop transferable skills in project management, public engagement, and digital literacy — equipping you to navigate diverse career paths with confidence.

You’ll have access to the University’s careers support and tailored guidance from academic staff throughout your degree, whether your goal is further study or moving into a professional role after graduation.

Careers support

We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more about Careers support.

Work placements

A key feature of this course is the opportunity to undertake a dedicated placement module, designed to help you apply your knowledge of the ancient world beyond the university classroom.

Placements are tailored to your academic background and interests and are rooted in your expertise in Classics and Ancient History. They offer the chance to develop professional experience while engaging in meaningful, hands-on work. Opportunities will vary from year to year depending on our partner organisations, but we expect to offer placements with cultural and museum heritage collections, educational institutions, and other organisations where humanities research can have real-world impact.

We anticipate placement options including:

• Working with collections and exhibitions in Leeds City Museums and Galleries
• Contributing to teaching at Greenhead Sixth Form College in Huddersfield
• Projects involving public engagement, interpretation, or archival work through partnerships with heritage organisations and Cultural Collections at the University of Leeds.

These placements are not only a chance to build professional skills but also to reflect on how the study of the ancient world can inform and enrich a wide range of contemporary settings.

Guaranteed industry experience

As a Masters student at Leeds, you’ll also have the opportunity to gain real-world industry experience with our Global Industry Programme.

You’ll develop key professional skills and gain invaluable insight into working in your chosen field, helping to solve a real business problem from a live company brief.

This experience will enhance your CV, helping you to stand out in the competitive graduate jobs market and improving your chances of securing the career you want.

Benefits of the Global Industry Programme:

• Fully online and designed to fit around your studies.
• Opportunities to make industry contacts in areas such as digital marketing, business growth, sustainability and artificial intelligence.
• Build consultancy experience with a UK or international organisation.
• Gain invaluable insight into working as a consultant on a time-limited brief.
• Work as part of a team across disciplines to tackle real business needs.
• Advance your experience and hands-on skills by putting the course teachings into practice.
• Improve your employability prospects.