The Department of Classical Studies offers courses in the languages, literatures, history, and archaeology of ancient Greece and ancient Rome, two cultures that are the intellectual, social, political, legal, scientific, and artistic origin of Western civilization. Along with the Hebrew Bible, the scholarly study of these cultures, which goes back to the death of Alexander the Great in the 4th century B.C.E., is the original subject of university study. Their brilliance and beauty have not ceased to beguile and inform students for more than 2,000 years.

Classical studies offers the opportunity to learn about all aspects of life in Greece and Rome. Aside from its aesthetic, spiritual, moral, and intellectual value, that study can have practical uses as well: for example, the study of Latin is a proven key to communication skills in English and in the Romance languages; moreover, both Latin and Greek have long been and continue to be sources of technical concepts and vocabulary in all fields of study, from cybernetics to political economy.

A major in classical studies also enhances preparation for a wide number of professional fields, including law and medicine, as well as the graduate study of literature, history, fine arts, archaeology, anthropology, philosophy, religion, and classics itself. The requirements for concentration are designed to be flexible, so that individual students can focus their program around a particular interest like art and archaeology, history, or literature.

Prospective students and undergraduates should feel free to contact Faculty members and/or UDRs (Undergraduate Departmental Representatives) with their questions at any time. For information about programs of study and requirements, please visit the University Bulletin.

Degrees offered: Bachelor's.
Licensure (certificate) offered: Latin Secondary School Teaching (in conjunction with the Education Program).
Graduate Certificate offered: Ancient Greek and Roman Studies.