Ancient and Medieval History, BA (Hons)

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Swansea University students at Messene Odeon

Course Overview

Our BA in Ancient and Medieval History explores and examines civilisations that may appear distant but remain very influential even today. You will have the opportunity to explore the history of Europe and Mediterranean regions from the ancient Egyptians, Athenians and Persians to the Crusades, and from the Roman Empire to the medieval kingdoms of England and France as well as the Welsh ‘Age of the Princes’, taking a variety of historical and archaeological approaches.

This degree offers many ways to compare the Ancient and Medieval worlds and to understand the connections between them. It looks to understand how Ancient civilisations influenced Medieval societies, exploring themes such as power, identity, beliefs, and gender. It also explores the transition from the Ancient to the Medieval world, challenging the nature of periodisation, and highlighting the importance of similar themes that support our understanding of the distant past.

Swansea University lies in a region that is rich in monuments from the ancient and medieval past, including formidable castles, ruined abbeys and Roman remains, and this degree programme combines teaching with introducing students to this rich heritage.

Why Ancient and Medieval History at Swansea?

Based at our stunning Singleton Park campus, in parkland overlooking Swansea Bay on the edge of the Gower Peninsula, Swansea University lies in a region rich in monuments from the ancient and medieval past. You will be introduced to this rich heritage through your studies.

Classics and Ancient History at Swansea is ranked:

  • 2nd in the UK for Teaching Quality (Times Good University Guide 2026)
  • 3rd in the UK for Student Experience (Times Good University Guide 2026)
  • 5th in the UK for Overall Positivity (NSS 2025) - assessed under 'Classics'*
  • 11th in the UK (Guardian University Guide 2026)
  • Top 20 in the UK for Graduate Outcomes (Complete University Guide 2026)
  • Top 51-150 in the World (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025) 

*Based on the overall positivity score for questions 1 -26 in the NSS 2025, when ranked against universities as featured in the Times Good University Guide.

History at Swansea is ranked:

  • Top 25 in the UK for Student Satisfaction (Complete University Guide 2026)

You will be joining a vibrant, welcoming community where students and staff support one another both academically and socially. From day one, you’ll be paired with a personal tutor, an academic who will guide you throughout your degree, offering both academic advice and personal support.

Your Ancient and Medieval History Experience

The philosophy underpinning this degree is that studying the ancient and medieval past in a comparative way is learning how to engage thoughtfully with complex issues, challenge assumptions, and appreciate the diversity of human experience across time and space.

The programme is structured to provide a comprehensive and flexible learning experience. The combination of core and optional modules allows students to gain a solid foundation in Ancient and Medieval History while tailoring their studies to their specific interests. The inclusion of a significant dissertation project ensures that students can engage deeply with a topic of their choice, fostering independent research skills.

This programme includes opportunities to undertake a Semester or Year Abroad, spent in locations such as the USA, Canada, China, Hong Kong, or Singapore, enhancing your learning and offering invaluable life experience.

This course also offers you the opportunity to spend a Year in Industry, in the UK or overseas, enabling you to gain valuable workplace experience. The University advocates for paid-only placements, which on average have a salary of over £20,000. Unpaid placements are considered on a case-by-case basis.

Ancient and Medieval History Employment Opportunities

The BA in Ancient and Medieval History equips graduates to move into a range of careers and further study, including:

  • Archives
  • History and Heritage organisations
  • Education
  • Law
  • Journalism and the media
  • Public Sector

Graduate entry-level roles in a range of professions, drawing on advanced critical thinking skills.

Modules

We're currently reviewing our curriculum to enhance your learning experience and embed skills that will benefit your future career. This means that some modules may be subject to change.

Entry Requirements

We consider all applicants on their own merits and welcome applications from students with a wide range of qualifications.

Ancient and Medieval History, BA (Hons)

Ancient and Medieval History with a Year Abroad, BA (Hons)

Ancient and Medieval History with a Year in Industry, BA (Hons)