The Classical Studies Level 8 Advanced Diploma is a comprehensive academic programme that delves into the intellectual, cultural, and historical foundations of the classical world. Covering both Ancient Greece and Rome, the course offers an immersive experience in key areas such as literature, philosophy, politics, military history, and material culture. Learners are introduced to the methodologies of classical research, including the study of primary sources, archaeological evidence, and comparative historical analysis. The course begins by establishing the foundations of classical civilisations, allowing learners to understand the chronological development and cultural achievements that defined the ancient Mediterranean.

Through lectures on Greek literature and Roman political thought, students will engage with works from Homer, Plato, Aristotle, Virgil, Cicero, and others, gaining insight into how classical ideas have shaped modern values, governance, and intellectual traditions. The course also explores classical art, architecture, and material culture, focusing on key artefacts and their relevance in debates on repatriation and cultural ethics. Special attention is paid to warfare, law, social structures, and religion, providing a full-spectrum understanding of classical life and its societal systems.

The latter part of the diploma focuses on the reception of the classical world, highlighting its role in the Renaissance, Enlightenment, and modern media. Students will be guided through advanced research training and dissertation development, equipping them with the academic tools to produce original contributions to classical scholarship. By the end of the course, learners will have the ability to critically assess classical sources and apply them to broader interdisciplinary inquiries.