University of Leicester

What you'll study

This distance-learning BA explores the societies, cultures and material remains of the ancient Mediterranean from the Greek Archaic period through the Roman Empire, combining historical narrative with archaeological method. The programme is modular and typically builds from foundational survey modules to specialised options and a substantial final-year research project.

• Year 1 / introductory stage: core introductions to ancient history and classical archaeology, sources and interpretation (literary, epigraphic and material), and thematic surveys of Greek and Roman civilisation.
• Middle years / development stage: period and thematic modules such as the Hellenistic world, Roman imperial history, urbanism and economy in antiquity, religion and society, and archaeological field methods (theoretical and practical approaches in a distance-learning context).
• Final year / honours stage: options in specialised areas (for example landscape archaeology, numismatics, ancient art and iconography, or classical reception), plus an independent dissertation or research project supervised by academic staff.
• Learning and assessment: teaching is delivered online through lectures, recorded seminars, readings and moderated discussion forums. Assessment typically includes essays, source analyses, portfolios, project reports and a dissertation; occasional residential or short field visits may be available but are not a compulsory element of distance study.

Entry requirements

The programme is designed to be accessible to a wide range of applicants. Typical entrants include recent school-leavers, students with vocational qualifications and mature learners returning to study.

• Academic qualifications: applicants are normally expected to hold a suitable qualification such as two or three A-levels (or recognised equivalents), an Access to Higher Education Diploma, or an appropriate BTEC or international qualification.
• Prior study: candidates with relevant previous higher-education study, professional experience in heritage or archaeology, or substantial independent study in related subjects are considered.
• English language: since the programme is delivered in English, applicants whose first language is not English should demonstrate a recognised English language qualification or equivalent ability.
• Other requirements: as a distance degree, applicants should have reliable access to the internet and the ability to work independently. No specific GCSE subjects are usually mandated, although a good standard of English is important for written assessment.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with strong skills in critical analysis, research, written communication and source interpretation, which are valued in a wide range of occupations.

• Heritage and museums: roles in museums, galleries, heritage organisations, curatorial work and front‑of‑house interpretation.
• Archaeology and fieldwork: entry to fieldwork support roles, archaeological units, surveying and post-excavation analysis (often in combination with further vocational training or practical experience).
• Education and research: progression to teacher training (where required), PG study in ancient history, archaeology or related disciplines, and research assistant posts.
• Related sectors: careers in publishing, libraries and archives, cultural resource management, heritage consultancy, digital heritage and arts administration, as well as transferrable roles in writing, project management and communications.

Why study at University of Leicester

The University of Leicester has a long-established School of Archaeology and Ancient History with active research in classical studies and archaeology. Distance learners benefit from modules taught by research-active staff, structured online learning materials, and access to the university's digital library and student support services.

• Research-led teaching: staff specialise across Greek, Roman and Mediterranean studies, bringing current scholarship into module content and dissertation supervision.
• Flexible study: the distance format allows you to combine study with work or other commitments while following a rigorous honours degree pathway.
• Learning resources and support: you will have access to online lecture recordings, reading lists, electronic collections and academic skills support tailored to remote students.
• Progression opportunities: the degree prepares students for postgraduate study, vocational training in archaeology and heritage, and a broad range of careers that value research and communication skills.