Ancient History, Ph.D. / M.Phil

A PhD or MPhil in Ancient History enables you to undertake a substantial project led by your own passions and interests. The PhD takes three years full-time or six years part-time, and the MPhil takes two years full-time or four years part-time. You submit a thesis of up to 100,000 words for PhD assessment and 60,000 words for MPhil assessment, demonstrating original research with a significant contribution to the subject area.

This is followed by an oral examination of the thesis (a viva voce examination, or viva). In both programmes you will work at an elite academic level, conducting original research connected with the history and archaeology of ancient Greece and Rome. Our expertise spans from the ancient cultures 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, while skills and training programmes available on campus provide further support.

You will have the opportunity to deliver presentations to research students and staff at departmental seminars, and at the Postgraduate conference. You may also have the chance to teach undergraduate tutorials and seminars from the second year, for which you receive training and payment. Financial support is also provided (subject to approval) for attending conferences or conducting research away from Swansea.