Classics at University and Beyond
Classics at University
Studying Classics (or a related subject) at university is more accessible than many people realise. Whether you have studied Latin, Ancient Greek, or Classical Civilisation at school, or have never encountered the ancient world in a classroom at all, there are routes into university-level study for everyone.
Do I need to have studied Classics at school?
Yes! The vast majority of universities do not require you to have studied Classical subjects at A Level. Many students arrive at university having never studied the Ancient World/ Ancient languages before and go on to achieve excellent degrees.
What universities are looking for is genuine enthusiasm for the subject and a strong academic record. If you love history, literature, languages, philosophy, or archaeology, Classics could be the degree for you.
What courses are available?
As well as Classical Civilisations itself, universities offer degrees in Ancient History, Classical Literature, Archaeology, and a wide variety of joint honours combining these subjects with English, History, Medieval History, Philosophy, Modern Languages, and more. Some courses focus heavily on ancient languages; others require no language study at all.
The best place to start exploring is UCAS, where you can search and compare courses across all UK universities. The Complete University Guide is also a useful resource for comparing courses and institutions.
What skills does a Classics degree give you?
A Classics degree is an incredibly versatile qualification. Skills developed include:
Critical thinking and analysis: reading and interpreting complex texts and sources from multiple perspectives
Strong written communication: constructing clear, well-evidenced arguments in essay form
Language skills: whether ancient or modern, language study builds precision and attention to detail
Research skills: working independently with primary and secondary sources
Cultural awareness: understanding how the ancient world has shaped modern society, politics, and culture
Adaptability: the breadth of a Classics degree prepares graduates for a wide range of careers and environments
Where can Classics take you?
Classics graduates go on to a remarkable variety of careers. Graduates have gone on to work in:
Education and academia: Teaching at primary, secondary, or university level; lecturing; research
Heritage, museums, and archaeology: Museum curation, heritage management, archaeological fieldwork, tourism and visitor experience
Media, journalism, and publishing: Journalism, publishing, public relations, media research, advertising, marketing
Law and public service: Law, the civil service, local government, NHS management, politics, diplomacy
Business and finance: Business management, human resources, retail management, banking, management consultancy
Charities and campaigning: Charity management, campaigning, community outreach
Thinking about Oxford or Cambridge?
Oxford and Cambridge both offer excellent Classics-related courses — and like other universities, neither requires you to have studied Classical subjects at A Level. However, applications to these universities are highly competitive. You will need to be on track for strong A Level results and be able to demonstrate genuine passion and knowledge of the subject.
Classics for All North hosted a briefing in October 2025 specifically for students considering applying to study Classical subjects at Oxford or Cambridge. A recording of the talk and an accompanying presentation with detailed advice are available on their website — well worth exploring if you are in Year 12 and starting to think about your application.
Useful Links
Stupid Ancient History — Why Choose Ancient History? A fun and honest FAQ-style video from the Stupid Ancient History channel, answering common questions about choosing Ancient History — why it's interesting, how it differs from modern History, what skills it develops, and where it can take you. Aimed at GCSE students but the reasons apply just as well to A Level and beyond.
Professor Edith Hall — Five Reasons Why Classical Civilisation Matters A compelling short talk by one of the UK's leading classicists, Professor Edith Hall, making the case for why Classical Civilisation remains essential today — covering everything from its shaping of our intellectual heritage to why it develops critical thinking, cultural literacy, and a sense of wonder. An inspiring watch for anyone curious about what studying Classics is really about.
UCAS — Classics Subject Guide UCAS's dedicated Classics subject guide covers everything a prospective student needs to know — from typical entry requirements and what to expect from the course, to career prospects, recommended resources, and links to search all available Classics degrees at UK universities. A great first stop for anyone starting to explore their options.
UCAS — Archaeology Subject Guide UCAS's dedicated Archaeology subject guide, covering entry requirements, what to expect from the course, career prospects, and links to search all Archaeology degrees at UK universities. A good starting point for anyone drawn to the more practical, hands-on side of the ancient world — from excavation and fieldwork to heritage management and museum curation.
Classical Association — Classics and Careers podcast The Classical Association's podcast series dedicated to Classics and careers — featuring real people from a huge variety of professions, from anthropologists to actuaries, producers to policy advisers, all with a connection to Classics. An inspiring and accessible listen for anyone wondering where a classical education can take them.