Classical Studies

BA Classical Studies allows you to explore the culture, history, archaeology, philosophy and literature of the ancient Greek and Roman worlds. Choosing from a range of options, you can study Greek and Roman societies across the Mediterranean and Near East, from the Archaic period to the Roman imperial period and Late Antiquity, and the reception of classical culture in later periods of history.<br/><br/>You will be encouraged to engage in wider debate on how we interpret the classical world and why this matters. You will investigate both the admirable and the disturbing facets of Greek and Roman cultures, as we delve into:<br/><br/><br/>- democracy<br/><br/><br/>- slavery<br/><br/><br/>- sexuality<br/><br/><br/>- empire.  <br/><br/><br/>The nature of our knowledge about the past and the way in which histories and texts are written is a key concern. You will assess ancient source material (textual and archaeological) and question accepted histories and traditions about the past, so that you develop the ability to construct and present a convincing argument.  <br/><br/>At Birkbeck we believe that the study of the classical world should be accessible to all. Many of our students have no prior knowledge of either Greek or Latin. As part of this classical studies degree, you will take at least one language option, and you will have the opportunity to develop your language skills over the duration of your degree, or use these skills to enrich your study of a wide range of complementary option modules across not only classics, but also including history, archaeology, politics and philosophy. <br/><br/>If you opt for the Foundation Year route, this will fully prepare you for undergraduate study. It is ideal if you are returning to study after a gap, or if you have not previously studied the relevant subjects, or if you didnt achieve the grades you need for a place on your chosen undergraduate degree. <br/><br/>**Highlights**<br/><br/><br/>- Birkbeck was ranked in the top eight universities in the UK for its History research in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework.<br/><br/><br/>- Situated in historic Bloomsbury, we are at the heart of academic London with access to unparalleled research resources. Situated very close by are: the Institute of Historical Research and the Institute of Classical Studies, with their specialist libraries, training facilities and seminars; the British Museum and other world-class galleries and museums; and the British Library, the largest national library in the world.<br/><br/><br/>- In history, classics and archaeology, Birkbeck is home to thriving student societies and a number of affiliated research centres that actively run seminars, conferences and other events where some of the worlds best scholars present their latest research.<br/><br/><br/>- Get a flavour of our teaching and research in this area through the wide range of free online and in-person seminars, workshops and tasters; check out our Discover the Past and taster courses as well as events at the Raphael Samuel History Centre, a leading centre for public history which the department co-directs.<br/><br/><br/>**Careers and employability**<br/><br/>Graduates can pursue career paths in museums and galleries, research and archiving, or education. Possible professions include:<br/><br/><br/>- archivist<br/><br/><br/>- editorial assistant<br/><br/><br/>- higher education lecturer<br/><br/><br/>- museum/gallery curator.<br/><br/><br/>We offer a comprehensive careers service - Careers and Enterprise - your career partner during your time at Birkbeck and beyond. At every stage of your career journey, we empower you to take ownership of your future, helping you to make the connection between your experience, education and future ambitions.