Ancient and Medieval History with a Year Abroad BA (Hons)

Our BA in Ancient and Medieval History explores and examines civilisations that may appear distant but remain very influential even today. You will have the opportunity to explore the history of Europe and Mediterranean regions from the ancient Egyptians, Athenians and Persians to the Crusades, and from the Roman Empire to the medieval kingdoms of England and France as well as the Welsh ‘Age of the Princes’, taking a variety of historical and archaeological approaches.<br/><br/>This degree offers many ways to compare the Ancient and Medieval worlds and to understand the connections between them. It looks to understand how Ancient civilisations influenced Medieval societies, exploring themes such as power, identity, beliefs, and gender. It also explores the transition from the Ancient to the Medieval world, challenging the nature of periodisation, and highlighting the importance of similar themes that support our understanding of the distant past.<br/><br/>Swansea University lies in a region that is rich in monuments from the ancient and medieval past, including formidable castles, ruined abbeys and Roman remains, and this degree programme combines teaching with introducing students to this rich heritage.<br/>Based at our stunning Singleton Park campus, in parkland overlooking Swansea Bay on the edge of the Gower Peninsula, Swansea University lies in a region rich in monuments from the ancient and medieval past. You will be introduced to this rich heritage through your studies.<br/><br/><strong>Classics and Ancient History</strong> at Swansea is ranked:<br/>• 2nd in the UK for Teaching Quality (Times Good University Guide 2026)<br/>• 3rd in the UK for Student Experience (Times Good University Guide 2026)<br/>• 5th in the UK for Overall Positivity (NSS 2025) - assessed under Classics*<br/>• 11th in the UK (Guardian University Guide 2026)<br/>• Top 20 in the UK for Graduate Outcomes (Complete University Guide 2026)<br/>• Top 51-150 in the World (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025)<br/><br/>*Based on the overall positivity score for questions 1 -26 in the NSS 2025, when ranked against universities as featured in the Times Good University Guide.<br/><br/><strong>History</strong> at Swansea is ranked:<br/>• Top 25 in the UK for Student Satisfaction (Complete University Guide 2026)<br/><br/>You will be joining a vibrant, welcoming community where students and staff support one another both academically and socially. From day one, you’ll be paired with a personal tutor, an academic who will guide you throughout your degree, offering both academic advice and personal support. <br/><br/>As part of this programme, you will spend a year abroad between your second and final year, broadening your skills and experience. Our partner institutions span the globe, with opportunities varying each year. If you wish to receive more information, please get in touch with us on study@swansea.ac.uk.