By continuing to use this site, you agree to the use of cookies in accordance with our privacy policy.

Classics (Greek and Latin) B.A.

The classics program provides students with many fascinating intellectual opportunities as they explore how the study of languages and cultures from antiquity is relevant in the digital era.
Greek ruins
A major in classics is impressive for its intellectually challenging nature.

About this Program

  • Stimulate your curiosity by exploring the diverse range of Greek and Latin literature, which will appeal to those interested in history, drama, poetry, political science or philosophy.
  • Develop the ability to read some of the most influential works of Western literature in their original languages.
  • Learn about cultures that are radically different from our own, yet at the same time provide the foundation of many modern ideas and institutions.
  • Benefit from the work ethic required for success in the languages, the intellectually challenging nature of the grammar and syntax of Greek and Latin, and the interdisciplinary nature of the field.
  • Earn one of the most impressive degrees to have when applying for a job in other fields as classics majors are highly respected and sought-after job candidates.
  • Prepare yourself to find employment in a diverse range of fields, including law, medical sciences, government/politics, writing and journalism, and education.
  • A minor in Classics (Greek and Latin) is available.

Program Information

Degree Type

Major

Outcome

B.A.

Modality

In-person

College or School

Exterior of Hall of languages building

College of Arts and Sciences

The College of Arts and Sciences (A&S) is Syracuse University’s first and largest college. As the home of the liberal arts, our internationally recognized programs provide the cornerstone of a Syracuse University education with 50+ majors in the natural sciences and mathematics, the humanities and the social sciences (in partnership with the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs).
Explore the College

Curriculum

Why study classics? To find a challenging and immensely rewarding field of study, and to explore the familiar yet foreign country that is our past. You'll take coursework from each of the following key areas in classical studies: Greek, Latin, literature in translation, anthropology, history, history of art, linguistics, philosophy and religion. Take a deeper dive into the areas that interest you the most by pursuing higher-level coursework in those areas.

The major in classics with Greek emphasis usually consists of 27 credits in Greek, with at least 18 credits coming from courses numbered 300 and above. Courses in Latin may be substituted up to a total of 9 credits. Courses from the approved list for classical civilization may be substituted up to a total of 6 credits with the approval of the program director.

The major in classics with Latin emphasis consists of 27 credits in Latin, with at least 18 credits coming from courses numbered 300 and above. Courses in Greek may be substituted up to a total of 9 credits. Courses from the approved list for classical civilization may be substituted up to a total of 6 credits with the approval of the program director.

  • Identify basic syntactic structures of your language of concentration.
  • Acquire working vocabulary of several hundred words in your language of concentration.
  • Read and translate simple texts in the language at sight in addition to more complex texts in that language (which will include both poetry and prose) with the aid of a dictionary.
  • Describe/analyze the cultural context that produced the texts studied in classics, incorporating Greek and Roman literary, political and social history.
  • Synthesize close reading and analysis of texts to conduct research in the field, employing the major research tools and methods used to study Greek and Latin.

Learn more about this program

Start your application
Start your academic journey with us.
Explore affordability
Learn about grants and scholarships.
Schedule a tour
Plan your visit and get ready to make yourself at home.