University of Nottingham

What you'll study

The Distance Learning PhD in Classics is a supervised, research‑led degree culminating in a substantial thesis that makes an original contribution to knowledge in areas such as Greek and Latin literature, ancient philosophy, classical reception, ancient history, epigraphy, papyrology, archaeology and classical art. Rather than taught modules, the programme focuses on independent research under the guidance of a principal supervisor and one or more secondary supervisors, with a personalised programme of research training and skills development.

Typical components of the programme include:

• a detailed research proposal and literature review
• regular virtual supervision meetings and documented supervisory records
• a bespoke training plan covering research methods, languages (ancient and modern), palaeography, digital humanities tools, quantitative or qualitative methods where relevant, and ethics and governance for research involving human or archival materials
• progress monitoring through annual reports and a formal upgrade/confirmation process that sets the scope and expectations for the thesis
• preparation for the viva voce examination, including thesis submission and examination by external examiners

Distance research students have access to the University's digital resources, online training provision, research skills workshops offered by the Graduate School, and inter‑library and digitisation services to support work on primary texts and secondary literature. Where appropriate and possible, students may be able to arrange short on‑campus visits for intensive supervision, access to physical collections or archives, language classes and networking with the research community.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a good honours degree and a relevant postgraduate qualification (typically a Master’s degree with a substantial research component, such as an MA by research or MPhil) or to demonstrate equivalent research experience and training. Admissions are based primarily on the quality and feasibility of the research proposal, academic references, and evidence of research potential.

Typical application documentation includes:

• a clear research proposal outlining aims, methodology, bibliography and a realistic work plan
• a writing sample or sample chapter showing ability to conduct independent research in Classics
• academic transcripts and a curriculum vitae
• two or more academic references

International applicants whose first language is not English will normally be required to demonstrate proficiency in English through an approved test or other evidence of prior study in English. The University may also require evidence of competence in relevant ancient languages (Greek and/or Latin) or modern research languages depending on the project.

Career prospects

A PhD in Classics prepares graduates for a range of careers that value advanced research skills, critical thinking, close textual and contextual analysis, and specialist knowledge of antiquity. Common career paths include:

• academic careers in universities and colleges, including teaching and research posts
• curatorial and research roles in museums and heritage organisations
• positions in archives, libraries and cultural institutions
• publishing, editorial work and scholarly communications
• roles in education, schools outreach and curriculum development
• digital humanities, data curation and research support positions that combine computing with classical scholarship
• policy, advocacy and cultural management roles where historical and contextual expertise is valued

Distance learning doctoral study is also compatible with continuing employment in outside organisations, enabling professionals in heritage, cultural organisations, or teaching to advance their qualifications without pausing their careers.

Why study at University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham hosts an active and interdisciplinary research environment in classical studies and related fields, with staff whose expertise spans literature, history, material culture and digital approaches to antiquity. As a Nottingham distance PhD student you benefit from personalised supervision by recognised specialists, structured research training from the Graduate School, and access to the University’s extensive electronic collections and subscription journals.

The University provides dedicated administrative and student support for distance learners, including online induction, training workshops, research skills modules, and systems for virtual supervision and progress monitoring. Where projects require access to physical archives, Nottingham's library services and inter‑library loan arrangements, together with negotiated access to national and regional collections, can assist remote researchers in obtaining essential primary sources.

Overall, the programme offers the rigour and supervisory expertise of a traditional PhD while accommodating the flexibility required by remote and part‑time researchers, making it suitable for those who wish to pursue high‑quality doctoral research in Classics without relocating to campus full‑time.