Classical Civilisation BA

Course overview

This course examines the literature, culture and society of classical Greece and Rome. You will also be able to study political and social structures, art and visual culture, thought, religion and social life. No prior knowledge of Greek or Latin or classical civilisation is required and, except in designated language courses, all texts are read in translation. The study of either Greek or Latin is optional.

Year one 

You will study two core survey modules which give you an integrated introduction to the history and culture of Greece and Rome and their reception, along with three modules going into more depth on themes, topics and approaches in the areas of history, literature and art - each building up skills in different types of assessment. You are warmly encouraged to begin or continue Latin or Greek.

Year two

Your second year combines a wide range of optional modules exploring ancient literature, art and history, with an extended study, to prepare you for third-year dissertation work. Our independent module ISYP encourages an innovative (often creative) project on your own choice of subject. You also have the option to continue or start learning Greek or Latin.

Year three

You will develop and pursue your own interests through a 10,000- word dissertation on any area of classical civilisation and combine this with a special subject module which involves detailed, in-depth study of a particular topic (taught in seminars). Optional modules or continued language work complete the year.

Entry requirements

A levels: AAB

English language requirements 

IELTS 7.0 (no less than 6.0 in any element)

TOEFL iBT 100 (minimum 19 with 20 in Speaking).

Alternative qualifications 

For details please see the alternative qualifications page 

Flexible admissions policy

We may make some applicants an offer lower than advertised, depending on their personal and educational circumstances.

Modules

The modules we offer are inspired by the research interests of our staff and as a result, may change from year to year. The following list is therefore subject to change but should give you a flavour of the modules we offer.

Typical Year one modules

• Studying the Greek World
• Interpreting Ancient Art
• Interpreting Ancient History
• Interpreting Ancient Literature
• Studying the Roman World

Typical Year two modules

• Extended Source Study in Classical Civilisation
• Studying Classical Scholarship
• Classics and Popular Culture
• Independent Second Year Project

Year three

Dissertation on an aspect of classical antiquity and a special subject. 

Examples of Special Subjects

• Democracy, Freedom and Oppression
• Augustus
• Sparta in comparative perspective 
• Epic Endings
• Masculinity and Citizenship
• Religion, Magic and the Greeks

Typical optional modules

• Latin Texts: 1
• Greek Texts: 1
• Slavery in Roman Society
• Greeks and Barbarians: Connected Histories
• Colour and Culture in the Mediterranean World
• Understanding Ancient Sculpture
• Greeks and Barbarians: Connected Histories
• Understanding Ancient Sculpture
• Virgil and the Epic Tradition

Careers

You will have the ability to analyse and interpret literary texts and to link them to their historical and cultural contexts. You will have a broad familiarity with the history, art, literature and culture of Classical Greece and Rome and in-depth knowledge of your chosen areas of interest. Your transferable skills will include the ability to communicate effectively, construct a logical argument and to think and study independently.

Average starting salary 

The average starting salary for 2010/11 full-time graduates of the Department of Classics was £19,928.*

*Average starting salary from known destinations of first-degree leavers who studied full-time, 2010/11.

Careers Support and Advice

Studying for a degree at The University of Nottingham will provide you with the type of skills and experiences that will prove invaluable in any career, whichever direction you decide to take. Throughout your time with us, our Careers and Employability Service can work with you to improve your employability skills even further; assisting with job or course applications, searching for appropriate work experience placements and hosting events to bring you closer to a wide range of prospective employers.

Have a look at our Careers page for an overview of all the employability support and opportunities that we provide to current students.  

KIS