Classical Studies and Scottish History

Classical studies and Scottish history is a combination of remarkable breadth and depth, pairing the study of the ancient Mediterranean world with the history of one of Europe's most distinctive nations. Classical studies encompasses the literature, history, philosophy, religion, art and archaeology of ancient Greece and Rome, civilisations whose intellectual and cultural legacy has shaped much of the world we inhabit. Scottish history traces the development of Scotland from the earliest human settlement through medieval kingdoms, religious reformation, union with England, the Enlightenment, industrialisation and the political and cultural transformations of the modern era.

At the University of St Andrews this four-year full-time programme allows you to engage with the power of Greek tragedy, the beauty of Roman sculpture and the twists and turns of Platonic dialogue, while also developing a sophisticated understanding of Scottish history in its British, European and global contexts. The classical studies strand encourages new ways of seeing both the ancient world and the world today, examining the reception of Greek and Roman culture in modern times as well as the civilisations themselves. The Scottish history strand develops the research skills, critical analysis and historical empathy that serious historical inquiry demands.

A year abroad gives you the chance to study in a different national and academic environment, broadening your perspective on both ancient and modern history.

Graduates move into careers in education, heritage, museums, archives, broadcasting, journalism, the civil service, law and cultural organisations. Many pursue postgraduate study in classical studies, Scottish history, heritage management, museum studies or related fields. The combination of ancient and modern historical perspective is unusual and genuinely enriching.