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Undergraduate Program

Traditionally, the study of Classics is centered on the literature and material culture of ancient Greece and Rome. Training includes the study of the classical languages (Greek, Latin), art, archaeology, literature, and history. But at Stanford, we believe that Classics is more than the study of two great civilizations in the Mediterranean basin. The ancient Mediterranean world was complex, and Greek and Roman civilization interacted with dozens of other civilizations from the Celts to the ancient inhabitants of Afghanistan and India.  In addition, the study of Classics also includes our own relationship to this complex ancient world. This opens up exciting possibilities for new ways of understanding the relevance and impact of Classics on the contemporary scene, whether in arts and letters, science and medicine, law, entertainment, religion, or geopolitics.  In short, the study of Classics is an exciting, intensely active, interdisciplinary subject.  It covers more than 3,000 years of human history, and it touches on the ways that abiding issues (justice, death, human relations, the divine) have been articulated in every era.  Classics is relevant to virtually every other subject offered at Stanford, from Law and Medicine to Philosophy and Comparative Literature, from the History of Science to Linguistics.  It is also, in itself, a source of intellectual challenge and joy. If you want a firm grasp of any of these fields, or a thorough grounding in fundamental traditions, begin by exploring Classics.

The Stanford Department of Classics offers a Bachelors of Arts in Classical Studies, Greek, Latin, or Greek and Latin. All of these degrees can be pursued with a Philosophy and Literature focus. In addition, we offer a Bachelor of Arts in Ancient History, which does not require the study of ancient languages. In addition to our major program we also have a minor program for interested students. Our undergraduates are afforded the opportunity to participate in archaeological excavations around the world, to study abroad in the Mediterranean, and much more. Prospective majors are encouraged to declare at the beginning of the junior year, but are urged to discuss their plans with Professor Giovanna Ceserani as early as possible. For more information please consult the Stanford Bulletin.

Ancient History
The only one of the five Classics tracks that does not require language study, Ancient History is ideal for students who want a thorough understanding of the ancient world through its history and artifacts but do not yet have an interest in starting or continuing Latin or Ancient Greek. Ancient History works well as a double major with Archaeology, History, and Political Science. This track may also be customized for students interested in Classics graduate study.

Classical Studies
A breadth of knowledge in Classics is essential for any undergraduate education. The Classical Studies track is our most flexible. It requires only two quarters of intermediate-level ancient language, and thus allows fulfillment of remaining units with courses following the student's own interests. Because of the low unit requirement and customized coursework, this track is easy to pair with multiple majors and athletics. But because of its minimal requirements on core materials, it is unsuitable as a basis for graduate study.

Greek
Discussions of Philosophy, Drama, Historiography and Literature can hardly be complete without the Ancient Greek classics. The Greek track emphasizes an intense investigation into Greek language and translation that explores, among other topics, Homeric epic, ancient philosophy, and classical theater. Because of the low unit requirement, this track easily pairs with multiple majors in related fields, such a Religious Studies, Philosophy, History, and Drama. As with Latin, the study of Greek provides an excellent background and analytical skills for careers in medicine, law, and communication. This track may also be customized for students interested in Classics graduate study.

Latin
This so-called "dead language" is still alive today through its pervasive influence on Western culture and modern Romance languages. The study of Latin language hones the mind for clear English writing and logical thinking. Students trained in Latin develop sharp critical reading and analytical skills by reading texts of philosophers, historians and literary masters in the original. A solid grasp of Latin is also excellent background for the study of medicine and law. Because of the low unit requirement, this track can be combined with premedical coursework and a second major in another field. This track may also be customized for students interested in Classics graduate study.

Greek & Latin
Ideal for the candidate who wants a rigorous study of Classics via both the Latin and Ancient Greek languages. Through intense study of the language and culture of these giants of Western culture, students are able to gain an important perspective on the fundamental basis of history and culture in the Western world. Because of the low unit requirement, this track pairs well with multiple majors, but may also stand alone for students interested in Classics graduate study.

 

Co-Terminal Bachelor's and Master's Degree in Classics

Stanford students in any undergraduate major who are interested in postgraduate work in Classics may apply for Stanford's coterminal master's program. Students considering a co-term are encouraged to consult with the Director of Undergraduate Studies about their plans before filing an application. No courses used to satisfy the undergraduate requirements (either as General Education Requirements or department requirements) may be applied toward the M.A. No courses taken more than two quarters prior to admission to the coterminal master's program may be used to meet the 45-unit University minimum requirement for the master's degree. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.7 in the major, and no incompletes on record. Undergraduate course work in Greek and Latin is normally a prerequisite for graduate-level work.

To apply, students should submit the Application for Admission to Coterminal Master's Program form, two letters of recommendation from Classics faculty, a sealed, official copy of their undergraduate transcript, a 1-3 page statement of purpose and a 10-15 page writing sample. GRE scores are not required. Applications are due on January 24th, 2012.

For Master's degree requirements and descriptions of our tracks, please visit the Stanford Bulletin.