Classics and Ancient History MA

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.

### Why study at Leeds

* Research-led teaching in a distinctive regional setting: Leeds offers a dedicated postgraduate environment for advanced study in Classics and Ancient History, with particular opportunities for interdisciplinary research, collections-based learning and public engagement.

* 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 research-led options in ancient history, literature and culture, study Ancient Greek or Latin at a level appropriate to your previous experience, or undertake an optional placement. All optional study includes postgraduate-level assessment and academic support. You may take up to 60 credits of Ancient Greek or Latin language study, subject to your previous experience and module availability.

* 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.