Course details
This diploma has two stages, each comprising 120 credits.
- Stage 1 consists of an introductory module in the arts and humanities, before choosing between studying about either culture or the revolutions throughout history.
- Next, in Stage 2, you’ll study two complusory Classical studies modules
Optional Access module – visit Entry requirements to find out about starting this course with a preparatory Access module.
In Stage 1 you will encounter a variety of different times and places and engage with some fascinating people, art works, ideas and stories from antiquity. As a Classical studies student, this broad foundation will help you develop the skills and the confident, open approach you will need to tackle the more specialist Classical studies modules at Stage 2.
You’ll deepen your understanding of the literature, history, art and material culture of the classical world, and learn the essentials of Latin. You’ll also develop your skills of writing essays and analysing ancient sources as diverse as poems, inscriptions, graffiti, coins, mosaics and paintings.
We regularly review our curriculum; therefore, the qualification described on this page – including its availability, its structure, and available modules – may change over time. If we make changes to this qualification, we’ll update this page as soon as possible. Once you’ve registered or are studying this qualification, where practicable, we’ll inform you in good time of any upcoming changes. If you’d like to know more about the circumstances in which the University might make changes to the curriculum, see our Academic Regulations or contact us. This description was last updated on 17 March 2020.
Accessibility
We make all our qualifications as accessible as possible and have a comprehensive range of services to support all our students. The Diploma of Higher Education in Classical Studies uses a variety of study materials and has the following elements:
- studying a mixture of printed and online material. Online learning resources may include websites, audio/video media clips, and interactive activities such as online quizzes.
- face-to-face tutorials/day schools/workshops and/or online tutorials
- continuous and end-of-module assessment in the form of essays, short answer questions, and in some cases an examination
- using feedback: continuous assessment involves receiving detailed feedback on your work from your tutor and using this feedback to improve your performance
- engagement with learning and assessment within a pre-determined schedule or timetable – time management will be needed during your studies and the University will help you to develop these skills
For more detailed information, see the Accessibility Statements on individual module descriptions. If you feel you may need additional support, visit
Disability support to find more about what we offer. Please
contact us as soon as possible to discuss your individual requirements, so we can put arrangements in place before you start.
Learning outcomes, teaching and assessment
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:
- Knowledge and understanding
- Cognitive skills
- Practical and professional skills
- Key skills
The level and depth of your learning gradually increases as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; elearning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.
Read the detailed learning outcomes here
Credit transfer
If you’ve already completed some study at another university, you may be able to count it towards your Open University qualification – reducing the number of modules you need to study.
You should apply for credit transfer before you register, at least 4 weeks before the registration closing date. Just tell us what you studied, where and when, and we’ll compare this against the learning outcomes for your chosen course.
For more details and an application form, visit our Credit Transfer website.
On completion
On completion of this undergraduate course, we'll award you the Diploma of Higher Education in Classical Studies.
Recognition in your country
If you intend to use your Open University qualifications to seek work or undertake further study outside the UK, we recommend checking whether your intended qualification will meet local requirements for your chosen career. Read recognition in my country.
Regulations
As a student of The Open University, you should be aware of the content of the qualification-specific regulations below and the academic regulations that are available on our Student Policies and Regulations website.
Entry requirements
There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification.
At The Open University we believe education should be open to all, so we provide a high-quality university education to anyone who wishes to realise their ambitions and fulfil their potential.
How much time do I need?
- Most of our students study part time, completing 60 credits a year.
- This will usually mean studying for 16–18 hours a week.
Skills for career development
This diploma of higher education will help you practise and refine the skills of argument and analysis, which are valued very highly by employers. As you progress through your studies, you’ll build steadily on your skills; developing greater perception in understanding and analysing information, and constructing more sophisticated arguments in response to assignments. You’ll also learn to study independently and develop your information literacy. These are all essential transferable skills which are in great demand in the modern workplace.
Career relevance
Study of the arts and humanities requires an understanding of human activities in diverse cultural environments and historical contexts that will have a relevance to a variety of careers such as;
- in cultural and creative industries
- education
- museum work
- public administration, local government, the civil service, art institutions, and social services
- advertising, journalism, publishing, and public relations
- business, banking and retail
- law
- charities and campaigning
Exploring your options
Once you register with us (and for up to three years after you finish your studies), you’ll have full access to our careers service for a wide range of information and advice. This includes online forums, website, interview simulation, vacancy service as well as the option to email or speak to a careers adviser. Some areas of the website are available to see at any time, including help with looking for and applying for jobs. You can also read more general information about how OU study enhances your career.
In the meantime if you want to do some research around this qualification and where it might take you, we’ve put together a list of relevant job titles as a starting point. Some careers may require further study, training and/or work experience beyond your diploma of higher education:
- arts administrator
- lawyer
- museum curator
- heritage management
- politician
- archivist
- event organiser
- journalist
- publisher
- public relations manager
- media researcher
- civil servant
- marketing manager