Ancient History

Ancient History at Royal Holloway offers students an in-depth exploration of the cultures, societies, and civilizations of the ancient world, from the earliest times through late antiquity. This programme provides a comprehensive curriculum covering key areas such as Greek and Roman history, mythology, archaeology, and literature, enabling students to develop a thorough understanding of the political, social, religious, and cultural developments that shaped the classical world. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, and practical workshops, students will engage with primary sources, archaeological artifacts, and modern scholarly debates, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills. The programme emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating history, archaeology, and classical studies to give a well-rounded perspective on ancient civilizations. Students will have opportunities to participate in fieldwork, museum visits, and potentially overseas excavations, enhancing their practical understanding and research abilities. The faculty members are leading experts in their fields, and the department encourages independent research, culminating in a dissertation project where students can focus on a specific topic of their interest. Career prospects for graduates include roles in archaeology, museum curation, education, heritage management, and further postgraduate research. The programme's flexible structure allows students to tailor their studies to align with their interests, combining core modules with optional subjects. Studying Ancient History at Royal Holloway not only provides academic excellence but also develops a range of transferable skills, including critical analysis, research, communication, and teamwork, preparing students for a variety of employment paths or further academic pursuits. With its rich historical resources and vibrant academic community, Royal Holloway offers an inspiring environment for exploring the wonders of the ancient world and gaining skills that will serve you throughout your career.

Core modules

Sources and Methods in Ancient History (40 credits)

Dissertation in the field of Ancient History (60 credits)

Optional modules

A total of 40 credits of any type (including Ancient History) from a list of available MA courses

A total of 40 credits chosen from a list of available MA Ancient History courses

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree (Bakalavr). Students who have successfully completed a four year Bachelor's degree (Baklavar) in an appropriate subject with good grades/GPA and at a reputable university will be considered for entry to a Royal Holloway Master's degree programme. Exact requirements will depend upon the programme, but most departments will ask for a minimum final grade of either 3.5/5.0 (70%) or 4.0/5.0 (80%).
• Specialist Diploma. Students who have successfully completed a Specialist Diploma in an appropriate subject with good grades/GPA and at a reputable university will be considered for entry to a Royal Holloway Master's degree programme. Exact requirements will depend upon the programme, but most departments will ask for a minimum final grade of either 3.5/5.0 (70%) or 4.0/5.0 (80%). 
• IELTS 6.5 overall with 6.0 in writing and no subscore below 5.5
• You are required to register your one reference, even if you have uploaded a copy of their reference. You may be contacted to submit a 2nd reference if we need further information to assess your suitability for the programme you have applied for.
• Copies of the transcripts from your undergraduate degree (this can be a transcript of your progress so far if you have not yet completed it)
• Copies of any other qualifications you have taken that are relevant to your chosen course
• A supporting statement, explaining your motivation to study your chosen course
• One academic reference - you can either upload a copy (this is the quickest option) or your referee can enter them directly into the online system once you've completed the application

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Scholarships

• International Excellence Scholarships
• Global Education

Ancient History at Royal Holloway, University of London, offers an in-depth exploration of the history and culture of the ancient civilizations of Greece and Rome. The program is designed to develop students' critical thinking, research, and analytical skills through the study of ancient texts, archaeological findings, and historical sources. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of the political, social, religious, and economic aspects of ancient societies, enabling them to appreciate their influence on the modern world. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including classical mythology, philosophy, art, architecture, and the everyday lives of ancient peoples. The program emphasizes both the theoretical and practical aspects of historical research, encouraging students to engage with primary sources and archaeological evidence. Teaching is delivered through lectures, seminars, and hands-on workshops, fostering an interactive learning environment. Students also have opportunities for interdisciplinary study, combining archaeology, literature, and history to enrich their understanding of antiquity. The department boasts strong links with museums and archaeological institutes, providing students with opportunities for internships and fieldwork experiences. Graduates from the program have pursued careers in academia, museum and heritage sectors, journalism, law, and public history. The university offers excellent facilities, including specialized libraries and access to digital archives, supporting research and independent learning. The program is suitable for students with a keen interest in ancient civilizations and a passion for history, providing a rigorous academic challenge while encouraging an appreciation of the enduring legacy of ancient cultures.