Recent searches
You do not have any recent searches.
Suggested searches
Free 6k cost of living support Support for university students Term dates
Quick access
About us International Open to the public

CLASSIC CLIVILISATION

A-level

Apply Ask us a question

Award

A–level

Course Level

Level 3

Duration

2 years full-time

Entry

September

Fees

View fees
Department of Sixth Form
Discover more at our next open day

Saturday 21 November 2026

Join an open day
Apply

Study in a dedicated sixth form environment designed to help you build the knowledge, confidence and independence needed for university and beyond

Access our vast university e-learning resources to give you the edge when completing your course

Gods, monsters, emperors, warriors and rebels. Discover the ancient world and the stories that still shape our lives today.

University College Birmingham's Classical Civilisation A-level explores the fascinating cultures of ancient Greece and Rome through mythology, literature, drama, politics and art. You'll encounter legendary heroes, experience Greek theatre, examine powerful Roman emperors, and explore how the Greeks and Romans viewed themselves and those they considered outsiders.

Along the way, you'll investigate themes including power, identity, gender, religion and propaganda, using ancient texts alongside art and archaeological evidence.

No previous study of Classics is required, and you do not need to know Latin or Ancient Greek. If you love mythology, history, literature, or discovering how people lived and thought in the past, our A-level Classical Civilisation could be the perfect subject for you.

Student Ambassadors engaging in a group selfie and smiling.

Why choose A-levels at our Sixth Form Centre?

  • SIXTH FORM MEETS UNIVERSITY - We can provide you with relevant work placements, masterclasses, guest speakers, trips and more

  • AWARD-WINNING SUPPORT - We have won national awards for our student support, which our sixth form students can tap into, from tailored academic support to financial assistance and health and wellbeing services

  • OUTSTANDING LEARNING FACILITIES - We have invested £5.5 million into our Sixth Form Centre, which includes lecture theatres, classrooms, science and computer labs, practical training facilities and open study spaces

  • MOVE UP TO UNIVERSITY - Want to keep studying at a higher level? This A-level will support your progression to degree level

Course breakdown

Through the study of Classical Civilisation, you will explore some of the most influential cultures, literature, beliefs and ideas in human history. You'll examine the ancient Greek and Roman worlds, analysing a range of sources while developing critical thinking, research and evaluation skills. To achieve your Classical Civilisation A-level, you will study the following:

Component 1: The World of the Hero

  • Homer’s Odyssey

  • Virgil’s Aeneid

Component 2: Culture and the Arts

  • Imperial image

Component 3: Beliefs and Ideas

  • Greek religion

Entry requirements

Academic requirements

We ask for a minimum of five GCSE subjects at grade 5 or higher, including GCSE Maths and a grade 6 in GCSE English Literature or Language.

Supporting documents required

School applicants will be required to provide a school report, which must include attendance. This will be assessed in conjunction with your qualifications and application during the confirmation of your place at University College Birmingham.

Guaranteed progression

Students who achieve 56 UCAS points or more from this qualification will automatically be guaranteed a place on a degree course at University College Birmingham. Some undergraduate courses require additional entry requirements, so applicants are advised to check entry requirements before applying.

Key information

Teaching and assessment

Teaching:

You will be taught using a variety of strategies including, teacher presentation, whole class discussion and paired/group work. You will be required to complete five hours of independent learning activity in addition to your timetabled classes.

Assessment:

You will be assessed through three written exams at the end of your two-year course. These exams will assess your knowledge and understanding of:

  • Literature, visual/material culture and classical thought

  • How texts and ideas both shape and are shaped by their cultural contexts

  • Possible interpretations of sources, perspectives and ideas by different audiences

  • Your ability to critically analyse, interpret and evaluate literature, visual/material culture, and classical thought, using evidence to make substantiated judgements and produce coherent and reasoned arguments.

Our teaching and assessment is underpinned by our Learning and Teaching Strategy 2025-2030.

Centre of opportunities

Our Sixth Form Centre taps into the wider university's networks to enhance student opportunities and gives you access to world-class university facilities.

Find out more

We are creating something unique and special for Birmingham and I am delighted you are considering us for your next steps. Studying A-levels requires discipline and determination, but it is also incredibly rewarding, offering you a deep insight into the subjects you choose to study. Sixth form is also an opportunity for you to discover what’s important to you and how you want to make your mark on the world. Our aim is to support and challenge you through this, while developing your character and widening your horizons so you flourish, professionally and personally. 

Rebecca Tigue Sixth Form Centre Principal

What will this course prepare you for?

The skills developed through the study of classic civilsation prepares you for further study and work in a range of fields, including history, education, law, politics, libraries, journalism and business.

Business manager

Average Salary: £50,000

Journalist

Average Salary: £33,000

Lawyer

Average Salary: £50,000

Librarian

Average Salary: £26,000

Researcher

Average Salary: £39,000

Hired

We are here to support your career goals every step of the way. 

 

Find out more

Our successful sixth form

Students at our Sixth Form Centre are already achieving excellent results, progressing to leading universities and exciting career opportunities.

Read Story

A-levels this goes well with:

Sociology A-level

The study of sociology provides a lens through which we can critically analyse the structures, institutions and interactions that shape our world. An understanding of sociology is beneficial for everything from policing, law and politics to teaching, social work, journalism and business.

View course
Law A-level

Get yourself ready for working in the legal system with our Law A-level college course. Learn about the nature of law, criminal law, tort and the English legal system, as well as boosting your real-world experience through work placements.

View course
Business A-level

An understanding of business is beneficial in a wide range of careers, from accountancy to financial advice through to sales management and consultancy, while it is also invaluable in setting up your own business and working in senior management and strategic roles across the sectors.

View course
English Literature A-level

The study of English Literature will enable you to explore the world in different time periods and in different social and cultural contexts. You will need to have a passion for reading, as you will cover a minimum of eight texts, including poetry, prose and drama.

View course
History A-level

History is a vibrant subject that can teach us much about human social, political and technological development and can help us make change for the better. Through the study of A-level History at our sixth form centre, you will explore the achievements and struggles that have led us to the societies in which we now live.

View course

Take the next step...

  

Back to top