Classics and Ancient History at The University of Manchester

The Department of Classics & Ancient History at Manchester is one of the largest and liveliest centres for the study of the classical world in the UK.

We are equally strong on both the Greek and Roman sides, in history, literature and language alike. In addition to comprehensive coverage of central and canonical subjects, we have expertise in a number of more specialist fields, including epigraphy, ancient medicine and linguistics.

We pride ourselves especially on our large and vigorous international community of students and staff; our inclusiveness; our active programme of research seminars and conferences; the high quality and exceptional delivery of our undergraduate and postgraduate degrees; and on the outstanding classical holdings of the University Library, together with the world-class Special Collections at the John Rylands Library.

Why study Classics and Ancient History with us?

The study of Classics & Ancient History has been central to Western culture for centuries. It is well respected as a discipline that fosters a keen sense of historical and cultural perspective, together with strong linguistic and literary skills and techniques of analysis and synthesis.

Classics & Ancient History has been taught at Manchester since the University's foundation. This long tradition of excellence allows us to draw on outstanding library provision and wide experience in teaching and research. The quality of our teaching was recognised by the maximum 24/24 score in the last National Subject Review (2001).

You can choose from a wide range of established ‘core’ courses at undergraduate level, together with more specialised options, such as Greek Epic, The Poetry of Ovid, Athens and Attica, and The World of Rome. If you wish to continue your studies, we also have a flourishing postgraduate community of both Masters and Doctoral students. Language teaching is a fundamental part of our provision at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, and you are warmly encouraged to begin or enhance your skills in Latin and/or Greek.

Studying with us has many advantages to offer: a wide choice of programmes and individual courses; world-class library and computing facilities; and excellent career prospects. Our recent graduates have entered a number of professional fields, including Law, Archaeology, Medicine and Education.