Ancient History Swansea University
| Award | Attendance | Study | Duration | Start | Domestic fees | International fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA(Res) | On-Campus | Full-time, Part-time | 1 - 2 years | October, January, April, July | £5006 per year | £19000 per year |
Course overview
An MA by Research in Ancient History enables you to undertake a research project led by your own historical passions and interests.
Your project will take one year full-time or two years part-time. It is suitable if you want to undertake a first research degree as a culmination of taught studies, or if you are considering further research in form of a PhD.
You will submit a thesis of up to 40,000 words, demonstrating original research with a significant contribution to the subject area. This is followed by an oral examination of the thesis.
You can study a topic related to the history, culture, or archaeology of the classical world, from Mycenaean Greece to the fall of the Roman Empire.
Our expertise spans from the ancient cultures and languages of Egypt, Greece, and Rome, to the history of late twentieth and early twenty-first-century Europe. The research of our staff and postgraduates is integral to the life of the department, making Swansea a dynamic and stimulating place to study.
A number of research groups also offer focus and community for staff and postgraduates:
• The Centre for Medieval and Early Modern Research (MEMO)
• The Centre for research into Gender in Culture and Society (GENCAS)
Working at an elite academic level, you are introduced to key concepts and interpretative techniques shaping the study of ancient civilisations in the modern world.
You will develop and hone research skills needed for high-level work in any field of ancient history, and the skills and training programmes available on campus provide further support.
As a research student, you are required to attend valuable skills and training courses. You will have the opportunity to deliver presentations to research students and staff at departmental seminars, and at the Postgraduate conference.
Entry requirements
You should hold or expect to achieve a minimum of an upper second class honours degree (2:1), or equivalent, in a related subject or hold relevant work experience. If you hold a qualification from a non-UK institution please see our academic entry requirements - Country-specific Information for International Applicants.
If English is not your first language you will need an acceptable pass in an approved English Language qualification to make sure you get the full benefit from studying at Swansea. We consider a wide range of qualifications, including the Swansea University English Test, the British Council IELTS test (with a score of at least 6.5 and 6.5 in each component). A full list of acceptable English Language tests can be found here.
Applicants to this programme would normally be expected to meet the minimum entry requirements indicated above. The School reserves the right to ask for higher academic grades and qualifications. Admissions decisions take into account not only prior academic qualifications, but also factors including the standard of the research synopsis/proposal submitted by the applicant, their performance at interview (if required), intensity of competition for limited places and relevant professional experience (where appropriate).
As well as academic qualifications, Admissions decisions may be based on other factors, including (but not limited to): the standard of the research synopsis/proposal, performance at interview, intensity of competition for limited places, and relevant professional experience.
Why study at Swansea University
There are many reasons to choose Swansea University for your studies; from the stunning beachfront locations of our Singleton Park and Bay campuses, to our global reputation for research and academic excellence, we offer a safe, supportive and fun environment to live and study, and our vast range of courses and subject areas mean you are sure to find the future career for you.
- Top 30 UK research-led university (Research Excellence Framework 2014-2021)
- Ranked within the Top 350 of universities globally (QS World University Rankings 2027)
- 95% of students surveyed would recommend Swansea University (Uni Compare 2026)
- 95% of graduates are in employment, study and/or other activities (HESA 2025)
Whether you join us for your undergraduate degree, postgraduate studies or research, you’ll receive a modern approach to learning, backed by cutting-edge facilities and an excellent research and teaching faculty.
Join Swansea and start your journey, studying in a picturesque, student-friendly city by the sea with so much to offer.