Classics, formerly split between the departments of Humanity (Latin) and Greek, have been taught at the University since its foundation in 1583.

The school has the oldest established Chair in Scottish History.

The School is engaged in teaching and research in the three disciplines of history, classics and archaeology.

It consists of three research centres:[1] The school has more than 150 academic and administrative staff and about 600 graduate students.

[2] Notable members of Edinburgh University's School of History, Classics and Archaeology: The School of History, Classics and Archaeology currently publishes the Journal of Lithic Studies.