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Bachelor of Arts
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Durham University
Durham
United Kingdom

Classics with Foundation

About

The Bachelor of Arts in Classics with Foundation at Durham University is a four-year, full-time program that provides students with a thorough grounding in the languages, literature, history, and culture of ancient Greece and Rome. The program begins with a foundation year designed to equip students with the academic skills and knowledge needed for the study of classics, followed by three years of in-depth study of classical civilizations.

The curriculum includes courses in classical languages (Latin and Greek), ancient history, classical philosophy, and the arts. Students will have the opportunity to study the ancient world through various lenses, from literature to archaeology. Graduates will be prepared for careers in education, heritage management, publishing, or research, as well as roles in the cultural sector where expertise in the classical world is highly valued.

Key information

Duration
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Tuition fee
$34,185.00/year
Start dates & application deadlines
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More details
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Key Facts

Program Title: Bachelor of Arts in Classics with Foundation
Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Duration: 4 Years
Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
Start Date: 30th January 2026
Location: University of Durham, United Kingdom
Field of Study: Classics
Language of Instruction: English

Program Structure

Year 1 – Foundation Year

  • Introduction to Classical Studies
  • Ancient History and Civilization
  • Classical Languages (Latin and/or Greek)
  • Literature and Textual Analysis
  • Research Skills and Academic Writing

Year 2 – Core Classical Studies

  • Greek and Roman History
  • Classical Literature and Philosophy
  • Archaeology and Material Culture
  • Elective Modules in Classics
  • Language Development in Latin and Greek

Year 3 – Advanced Classical Studies

  • Advanced Classical Literature
  • Political and Social History of the Ancient World
  • Epigraphy and Papyrology
  • Independent Research Project / Dissertation
  • Elective Modules in Specialized Topics

Year 4 – Specialization & Integration

  • Advanced Topics in Classical Philosophy and History
  • Seminar: Interpretation of Classical Texts
  • Research Project / Extended Dissertation
  • Elective Modules in Classics Specializations
  • Academic and Professional Skills Development

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this program gain critical thinking, research, and analytical skills, making them well-prepared for careers in heritage management, museums and archives, education, publishing, journalism, and cultural consultancy. Many alumni also pursue postgraduate studies in classical studies, history, archaeology, or related humanities fields, further deepening their expertise. The combination of language proficiency, historical analysis, and research experience ensures graduates can contribute to both academic and professional environments that require strong analytical and interpretive skills.

Why Choose This Program

This program provides a comprehensive foundation in classical studies, offering students the opportunity to develop expertise in ancient languages, literature, history, and archaeology. The foundation year ensures that all students gain the necessary skills to succeed at higher levels. Elective modules and independent research projects allow students to tailor their studies to personal interests, while seminars and practical sessions foster critical analysis and interpretive skills. The curriculum emphasizes scholarly rigor, research proficiency, and cultural literacy, preparing graduates for diverse careers in education, heritage, research, and the wider humanities sector.

Contact Information

For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +44 (0)191 334 2000
Email: admissions@durham.ac.uk
Address: University of Durham, Durham, DH1 3LE, United Kingdom