The study of the classical world is of continuing value because we gain a deeper perspective on basic human questions such as the nature of love, family, war, community, and religious experience, through the eyes of these ancient peoples.

Students learn to analyze the evidence from archaeology and literature and apply the patterns they recognize to the modern world. Classical civilization students are encouraged to take Latin or Greek to fulfill the language requirement, to learn how to think like an ancient Greek or Roman, and so understand these cultures from the inside.

Many of our classical civilization majors are also majors in English, history, and anthropology. Classical civilization majors with a GPA of 3.5 or higher can complete a departmental honors thesis in one or two terms for 3-6 credit hours in addition to the regular requirements for the major. Preapproved application and interview required.

Careers and Graduate School

Classical civilization graduates can apply skills in research, analysis and critical thinking, and familiarity with humanities to most jobs and professional programs. Students have gone on to graduate programs in classics, archaeology, and museum studies and made careers in business, art gallery curatorship, and heritage tourism, among others.