The core of the Classics course is Greek and Latin language, although how much language is studied and at what level depends upon the individual student. This course caters for those entering with A-levels in Greek and/or Latin, and we also welcome applications from those who wish to study one or both of these languages from beginners' level. Students on this programme can choose to specialise in either Latin or Greek, or can study both languages.

In the Ancient History and Classical Civilisation courses, study of Latin and Greek is optional. In the Ancient History course, we study not only political history but also social and cultural history. Our focus is on the history of the Ancient Mediterranean, particularly Greece and Rome, although some modules also explore other ancient civilisations (for example: the ancient Near East, or the Achaemenid Empire). In all our modules, we look not only at what happened in the ancient past, but also why it happened and how we are in a position to know about and to judge the events in question.

What distinguishes our course in Classical Civilisation is its breadth and flexibility. Students engage widely with the cultural and intellectual history of Greece and Rome but they can also develop and explore specific interests in ancient philosophy, visual culture (art and architecture), the reception of the classical world, and language and literature.