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Classical Studies Major

classical studies

Open the doors to ancient Greece and Rome by studying their cultures from ancient to modern times. 

VISIT 
ROME AND SWITZERLAND

2
STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

75%
Double Major

24
AVERAGE UPPER-LEVEL CLASS SIZE

Total Credit Hours: 120

Civilization Courses (18 hours)

Language Courses (18 hours)

General Education (45 hours)

Free Electives (39 hours)

 

What You'll Study

Learn the cultures of Ancient Greece and Rome, while studying Latin, Classical and New Testament Greek. You'll explore mythology, history, art, architecture, archaeology, religion, philosophy, and literature from ancient to modern times. You'll take 120 credit hours for a Bachelor of Arts in Foreign Languages, including Virginia Tech's Pathways. Choose from our available courses:

  • Ancient Greek and Roman Mythology
  • The World of Alexander the Great
  • Classics and Gaming
  • Women in Ancient Greece and Rome
  • Ancient Folktale and Fairytale
  • Later Roman Empire
  • Ancient Cities

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What is a Major in Classical Studies?

You'll explore two ancient and influential civilizations, while learning the languages of each. Find disciplines including mythology, history, languages, and art.

Why Study Classical Studies Here?

Our interactive courses deepen and challenge your perceptions of ancient cultures. We encourage undergraduate research and learning through study abroad opportunities,  including archaeological digs. Students can complete undergraduate research that will allow them to further explore topics they are interested in.

Beyond the Classroom

Get Involved

Join Eta Sigma Phi, the Honorary Society for Classical Studies. You'll attend the annual Eta Sigma Phi convention, compete in translation contests, and be eligible for Eta Sigma Phi national scholarships. 

Stop by The Classics Club and enjoy movie nights, road trips, and the annual Saturnalia and Bacchanalia parties. You'll volunteer with local schools and participate in Virginia's Senior and Junior Classical League.

 

collaborate

Undergraduate Research 

As you complete undergraduate research, you'll have opportunities to submit your work to conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals, including Philologia

We encourage independent study and your undergraduate research with a faculty advisor, especially if you're planning to pursue graduate school.
 

Study Away 

Step back in time as you walk through Riva San Vitale, Switzerland. You'll trace Roman life and influence into local provinces. As you move into Rome, you'll explore sights like the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Piazza Navona. You'll also have opportunities to gain field experience at archaeological digs. 

Let the sights and sounds of the Mediterranean    
be your textbook and earn credits towards your classical studies major. 

 

Study Abroad

Expert Faculty 

With faculty drawn from diverse departments, we celebrate unique perspectives on classical studies. Their research topics include ancient magic, archaeology and art history, historiography, ​​poetry, and modern engagement with ancient cultures.

We share a deep commitment to undergraduate teaching, and our faculty have received many teaching and advising awards.

 

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What Our Students Are Saying

Careers and Further Study

What do I do with a major in classical studies?

Latin and ancient Greek have become building blocks for modern communication. The study of classics will sharpen your research and critical thinking skills. The study of classics will sharpen your research and critical thinking skills, preparing you for careers like these:

  • Archaeologist
  • Historical Artifact Conservator
  • University Professor
  • Attorney
  • Psychologist
  • Marketing Account Executive
  • Publisher/Editor
  • Surgeon
  • Investment Analyst