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Swansea University
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Swansea University

Ancient History

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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

About Ancient History, MA(Res) - at Swansea University

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

Contact Swansea University to find course entry requirements.


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 300 of universities globally (QS World University Rankings 2025)
  • Voted 6th safest city in England and Wales (Complete University Guide 2024)
  • UK Top 10 of the People and Planet University League (Times Good University Guide 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.