Ancient History/Politics

Ancient history and politics together investigate how human societies have organised power, resolved conflict, and justified authority, across a vast historical span in the case of ancient history, and across contemporary political systems in the case of politics. The combination develops an unusual capacity to move between close reading of primary sources from the ancient world and analytical engagement with the workings of modern states and international relations.

At the University of Glasgow, ancient history involves the study of Greece, Rome, and the wider Mediterranean between the eighth century BC and the fifth century AD, with the opportunity to learn Latin and ancient Greek if you wish. You will engage with the political, military, social, and cultural history of these civilisations through a wide range of sources, from literary texts and inscriptions to archaeological evidence. The politics strand introduces you to comparative politics, political theory, international relations, and the institutions and processes of contemporary governance.

Working across both subjects trains you to think historically about political questions and politically about historical ones, which is a genuinely distinctive intellectual habit.

The programme is offered part time and includes a year abroad, which provides the opportunity to study at a partner institution and to gain international academic experience. This makes for a varied and enriching programme that suits students who are balancing study with other commitments.

Graduates from ancient history and politics combinations go on to careers in the civil service, politics, journalism, international organisations, law, education, research, and heritage. The analytical skills, historical depth, and political literacy the degree develops are valued across many professional contexts. Further study options include postgraduate degrees in political science, history, international relations, classical studies, and public policy.