Classics

The Department of Classics offers courses of study leading to the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Classics, with opportunities for specialization in Greek and Latin language and literature, classical and pre-classical archaeology, and Greek and Roman history. Although candidates for the doctorate normally specialize in one of these areas, the individual classical disciplines are interdependent. Students are, therefore, required to complete a reasonable amount of work in every major field. Recipients of the doctoral degree are qualified to teach courses in Classics, western civilization and interdisciplinary courses.

The course offerings are extensive. Normally a minimum of eight courses are given each quarter. Topics range from Bronze Age Greece to late Roman history, from Homer to later Latin literature. There is also the opportunity to work in other disciplines. Students interested in history or philosophy can take additional courses offered by the History and Philosophy Departments. Students in archaeology are encouraged to take special courses in the Anthropology Department and those in philology may also take courses in Romance or Germanic languages or in the English Department. In addition, students can take courses in Near Eastern studies offered by Hebrew Union College.

Students without an MA interested in pursuing a degree of Doctor of Philosophy should apply directly for that degree. The combined time for an MA and a PhD is 7 years.

Admission Requirements