To see a quick video showing why our students chose Latin and Greek, see our "Why Study Classics" page.

Classics (CLAS)

Classics is the study of the ancient Greco-Roman world in all its various manifestations. The evidence from the classical past derives primarily from texts and artifacts that have survived from antiquity, and the work of Classics as a discipline is to understand these texts and artifacts in as full a cultural context as is possible. Therefore, the study of Classics comprises several complementary areas of knowledge including language, history, politics, social institutions, literature, material culture and art. Successful classicists develop habits of mind that allow them to bring fresh approaches and apply evidence in new ways in order to analyze and interpret elements of the classical world. See also Greek and Latin.

Can I major in it? There are four majors: Classical Languages, Greek, Latin, and Classical Studies.

Topics explored: Literature, social and political history, gender and sexuality, religion, philosophy, art and archaeology.

How to get started: CLAS 110: Introduction to Classical Studies; CLAS 100: Ancient Athletics and/or beginning Latin or Greek are good places to begin. Students who have already begun these languages can take a placement test to enroll in the appropriate language course.

Greek (GRK)

The study of Greek forms an excellent foundation for a liberal arts education. Our courses will move you rapidly to a reading knowledge of the language that will allow you to encounter a rich and fascinating literature in the original Greek within your first year of study. Students can take Greek to fulfill their general language requirement, and may go on to earn a Certificate of Advanced Study.

Can I major in it? Yes, a major is offered.

Topics explored: Ancient Greek language, literature, history and culture.

How to get started: Students interested in beginning study of Greek should enroll in Greek 101 in the Winter term. Students who have already studied Greek should take the placement exam in the summer and enroll in the appropriate course.

Latin (LATN)

The study of Latin forms an excellent foundation for a liberal arts education. Our courses will move you rapidly to a reading knowledge of the language that will allow you to encounter a rich and fascinating literature in the original Latin within your first year of study. Students can take Latin to fulfill their general language requirement, and may go on to earn a Certificate of Advanced Study.

Can I major in it? Yes, a major is offered.

Topics explored: Latin language, literature, Roman history and culture.
How to get started: Interested students should enroll in the appropriate language course.

How to get started: Students interested in beginning study of Latin should enroll in Latin 101 in the Fall term. Students who have already studiedGreek should take the placement exam in the summer and enroll in the appropriate course.