Student Life

The Department is home to one of the biggest concentrations of Classicists and Ancient Historians in the UK, most of them studying on one of our undergraduate degree programmes or as postgraduate students. This means that there’s always a lot going on, not just in lecture rooms and classes but also in the classical community in, and beyond, the Department.

Department Library

We have our own Classics Library in the Department buildings at 38 North Bailey. The library, which is run by student volunteers, holds over 5000 books, most of which are available for students to borrow. It’s also a great place to work, with both quiet and more sociable spaces; it’s open whenever the Department is (usually: 9-5, Monday to Friday).

Durham University Classics Society

The student-run Classics Society organises events throughout the academic year: they run a series of lectures and talks, quizzes, trips, and (of course) social events, including an annual ball. They also offer informal peer mentoring. The society runs a blog, Ostraka, which publishes student writing on anything related to the ancient world and its reception. You can find out more on their Facebook page or Twitter.

Research Seminars

The Department hosts a weekly research seminar, in which visiting and local speakers present their latest work. All members of the department, including undergraduate and postgraduate students, are very welcome to attend these talks.

Student Support

The department offers academic support to students through its system of Academic Mentors and Level Tutors. This is backed up by the comprehensive system of student support offered by the University’s student support team, as well as pastoral support offered within Colleges. You can find out more about the resources and systems available to students on the University's Student Support & Wellbeing site.

Beyond the Department

The Colleges and the University also provide a wealth of opportunities, in sport, drama, music, and much more: our students are very active in these.