Classics Major

Scope and Intentions of the Major

The major in Classics offers two broad areas in which a student may concentrate: classical languages (Greek, Latin, or Greek and Latin) or Classical Humanities. Courses in Greek and Latin deal with the literature of ancient Greece and Rome and readings are in the original Greek and Latin. In Classical Humanities courses (Classics rubric), all readings are in English translations. Students interested in classics and ancient history may also devise a combined major program of study in consultation with the advisors from Classics and History.

Students planning to major in Classics should select their area of concentration in consultation with the Director of Undergraduate Studies or Academic Advisor. Undergraduate students who intend to pursue an advanced degree in Classics (M.A. or Ph.D.) should major in one of the classical languages (preferably both). Most graduate departments of Classics will only admit applicants with strong undergraduate backgrounds in both Classical Greek and Latin. Undergraduate students whose interests lie more in the civilization and culture of the ancient world should enroll in the Classical Humanities major.

Students who major in Classics and Ancient History, Classic Humanities, Greek (Classical or Modern), or Latin have the option of taking up to 3 courses in related fields: History (Ancient), History of Art (Greek, Roman, or Byzantine Art), Philosophy (Ancient Philosophy), Theatre (Ancient History of Theatre), or Medieval Studies. These courses must be selected in consultation with the Undergraduate Advisor. Students who major in Classical Humanities are also strongly encouraged to fulfill their language requirement by taking Greek 1101, 1102, and 21XX, Latin 1101.01, 1102.01, and 1103, or Modern Greek 1101, 1102, and 1103.