What was J.K. Rowling’s university degree subject combination?

J.K. Rowling studied French and Classics at the University of Exeter. She graduated in 1987 after completing a degree that included a year abroad in Paris.

The combination gave her experience with both a modern language and the ancient cultures, texts, and languages associated with classical study. Readers often connect this background with the invented spells and character names in Harry Potter, many of which draw on Latin, Greek, or other linguistic influences.

Rowling did not study English literature at university, a common assumption because she became one of the best-known English-language novelists. After graduating, she worked in administrative and research roles before writing Harry Potter. Her academic background was one influence among many, alongside her childhood reading, teaching experience, and interest in mythology.