Undergraduate Courses and Programs

The field of Classical Studies explores the worlds of ancient Greece and Rome, contemporary cultures that influenced them, and subsequent societies that were influenced by them, from the Middle Ages to the present day.

Classical Studies offers two majors, Classical Languages, and Classical Civilization; and four minors, Greek, Latin, Classical Archaeology, and Classical Civilization. We encourage students to study abroad--the department has close relations with a variety of programs, for example, the Intercollegiate Center in Rome and College Year in Athens. More information about these programs and others may be found here. We also encourage majors to write an Honors Thesis during their senior year. This project can lead to Graduation with Distinction in Classical Studies.

Why Take Classics?

Classical Studies is an interdisciplinary department, offering students the chance to study Latin and Greek, literature in translation, history, archaeology, religion, law, mythology, philosophy, sexuality and gender, political science, economics, art and architecture--the list could on. The scope of the field and our course offerings invite students to delve into nearly any aspect of classical antiquity.

Because of its wide-ranging nature Classical Studies is an ideal candidate for a first or second major, yielding interesting connections with such other fields as Economics, English, History, Anthropology, Pre-Med, Political Science, Pre-Law, Art History, Religion or Philosophy. The intellectual skills developed by students of Classical studies--close analysis of literature, documents, and material culture, and the ability to discern connections between disparate types of evidence--are essential qualities in today's world.

But what am I going to do with a major in Classical Studies? Classical Studies teaches students to consider issues that face all societies, from a wide variety of viewpoints. The field's multidimensional approach to problem-solving, its requirement of careful analysis, and sensitive reading makes it excellent preparation for whatever you choose to do in life. Classics majors at Duke and elsewhere have gone on to distinguished careers in law, medicine, the arts, business, primary, secondary, and college education, computer science, and many other professional fields. Classical Studies is the ideal liberal arts major, and it will immerse you in a culture whose influence endures and continues to this day.

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Please feel free to visit the department, in 233 Allen Building, across from Perkins Library. Upcoming courses are posted online, and individual faculty are available for consultation. To learn more, please contact the Director of Undergraduate Studies, Josh Sosin.