BA in Classical Studies and Modern Languages, University of Exeter

Exeter,

36 Months

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About this course

This course blends the exploration of ancient cultures with the study of modern languages. You will study Greek and Roman literature, history, and culture through translated texts, gaining insight into the classical world. The course offers an option to spend your final year studying or working abroad in a country where your chosen language is spoken, enhancing both language fluency and cultural understanding. Students have the opportunity to learn from any of the languages offered, including beginners’ courses in Chinese (Mandarin), French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish. The program is designed to develop your skills in critical thinking, interpretation, and cross-cultural communication, making it ideal for students passionate about connecting the ancient with the modern.

Why this course is highly recommended

This course is ideal for students with a passion for languages and history who want an immersive, research-led learning experience. It is ranked in the top 10 in the UK for Classics and Ancient History and in the top 150 worldwide for Modern Languages and Cultures, reflecting its academic excellence. The opportunity to spend a year abroad studying or working enhances employability, and the department’s active student society fosters a vibrant learning community. The program prepares students with valuable skills for careers in heritage, education, journalism, or further postgraduate study.

Specialisation

Students can choose to focus on Classical Studies, Modern Languages, or a combination of both. The course includes modules dedicated to Greek and Roman narratives, drama, and ancient culture, along with language modules for beginners or advanced speakers in various languages. The curriculum is flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies with optional modules exploring different aspects of classical and modern cultures, history, and linguistics.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

26.07L

Living cost

Degree requirements

The program duration is three years, with an optional four-year variant including an international placement year. Students need to meet entry requirements of about ABB at A-level, IB 32, or equivalent. For language modules, students can begin from beginners’ level or study from an advanced level. The coursework includes a mix of exams and essays, with assessments designed to develop both theoretical knowledge and practical language skills. For the international placement, students spend a year abroad, which is assessed and counts towards the final degree.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

120

Career prospects

Graduates from this course have a wide range of career options, including museum and heritage work, education, journalism, business, and law. The course’s emphasis on cultural understanding, analytical thinking, and communication skills makes graduates highly employable. Many alumni have gone on to roles such as archives assistants, journalists, marketing managers, and research administrators. The program also provides a strong foundation for postgraduate study in history, international relations, or management.

FAQs

Can I study a language from beginners' level?

Yes, students can choose to study Chinese, Portuguese, or Russian from beginners’ level, and Spanish, French, German, and Italian from either beginners’ or advanced level.

Is studying abroad part of the course?

Yes, there is an option to spend your final year abroad studying or working in a country where your language is spoken, and this year is assessed as part of your degree.