Department of Classics and Ancient History

PhD degrees

The PhD is our principal research degree. If you study full time, it is a three-year programme, during which you will come to work at the highest level in the subject, with the aim of producing an extended thesis (of not more than 100,000 words) which will make a significant and lasting contribution to the field.

Supervision

PhD students are provided with a 'supervisory team', normally consisting of two members of staff who have expertise in the field of study. In practice, most students at this level work closely with one 'principal supervisor'. As part of the process of application, you should identify and contact the person you think might be suitable as your principal supervisor. (Consult our list of staff, their specialisms, and publications. Contact the Director of Postgraduate Research if you would like help with this process.) Your prospective supervisor will be able to help you develop a viable research proposal.

Preparation for doctoral research

If you intend to study for the PhD and do not already hold a Masters degree (or equivalent), you will normally be required to register for one of our Taught MA programmes, which are designed to function as research training degrees, and offer the best possible introduction to higher research in the Classics, and the research culture of our Department in particular.

Why choose Durham?

The PhD programme in Durham’s Department of Classics and Ancient History is world class. The department provides a vibrant intellectual environment and is recognised internationally for the outstanding quality of its research. Our postgraduate students benefit from expert supervision, excellent resources, and a broad range of professional development opportunities including graduate teaching, conference organisation, and networking. We have a strong record of graduate alumni employment, with 50% of our PhDs over the past decade now in academic posts, and an equal number occupying diverse roles in private industry, the education sector, and the civil service.

Further Information

For all further enquiries about applying for admission and applying for the funding schemes, please contact artsandhumanities.pgrteam@durham.ac.uk

Funding Support for PhD research

Scholarships and studentships

The Department of Classics and Ancient History at Durham University is delighted to announce the competition for the Edna Jenkinson Studentship in Classics for the 2026-27 academic year. This award is offered in affiliation with St Mary’s College, Durham. It covers home fees plus catering and accommodation at St Mary’s, with a modest additional stipend of approx. £1,400 per annum for travel and/or research expenses. Award duration is 3.5 years, and the award holder would be expected to take up residence at St Mary’s by Oct 1^st, 2026.

Applications for this award will open on November 3^rd, 2025.

The deadline for applications is 23:59 (UK time) on January 16^th, 2026.

Applicants are asked to submit:
- A research proposal (max. 1,000 words) that clearly defines research questions and context, the intended approach and methods, and the fit with current research expertise in Durham’s Department of Classics and Ancient History.
- An academic CV
- Two academic references
- Academic transcripts
Applications should be made through Durham’s main applicant portal. Applicants will need to select ‘Edna Jenkinson Studentship’ from the dropdown list in the ‘Finance and Funding’ section of the application form. Applications will be evaluated according to their overall quality and fit with the Department.

Edna Jenkinson joined Durham University in 1958. She was a resident tutor at St Mary’s College, president of its senior common room and a member of its governing body from 1959-99. She was appointed senior lecturer in Classics in 1968, a post she held until retirement in 1985. This studentship has been made available through the generosity of her bequest and of other benefactors.

For more information, please contact the department’s Director of Postgraduate Research, Dr Erica Bexley: erica.m.bexley@durham.ac.uk.

Find out more

How to Apply

To find out about the admissions criteria for our research degrees programme click the link below
Questions about studying here

Check out our list of FAQs or submit an enquiry form

How to Apply

To find out about the admissions criteria for our research degrees programme click the link below

Questions about studying here

Check out our list of FAQs or submit an enquiry form

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Research areas

Find out more about the research specialisms and current projects in the Department of Classics and Ancient History

Your Durham Prospectus

Order your personalised prospectus and College guide here

Research areas

Find out more about the research specialisms and current projects in the Department of Classics and Ancient History