Classical Studies Major
Why Study Classical Studies at Virginia Tech?
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.
75%
Double Major
2
Student Organizations
24
Average Upper-Level Class Size
Rena Collins, '11, '12
After earning dual degrees in both Classical Studies and History in 2011, Rena graduated with a Masters in Education in Spring 2012. Since graduation, Rena has worked as a Latin teacher at a high school where she is currently the department chair, junior class chairperson, and academic team coach.
Alex DeSio, '10
Following her graduation in 2010, Alex DeSio entered the business world as an Executive Team Leader for Target. She has been a Territory Labor Expert for Old Navy and General Manager for Victoria's Secret.
Chloe Benner '15
After earning her bachelor's in Classical Studies, Chloe went on to pursue a Master's in Teaching at Hollins University. She will complete that program with certification to teach Latin at the secondary level. Chloe enjoys making Classics accessible to a young audience by teaching mythology programs at elementary schools and by tutoring all ages of Latin language learners.
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Tully Thompson, '18
Tully became a classical studies major, bridging the gap between her interests in the psychological approach to language development and ancient cultures. As a student, she participated in activities to expand her network including studying abroad in Riva San Vitale and Rome. Following graduation with double majors in classical studies and psychology, Tully is working as an educator through City Year AmeriCorps, where she works in an inner city school.
Careers and Further Study
What Can You Do with a major in Classical Studies?
Jobs Held by Our Graduates
- Archaeologist
- Historical Artifact Conservator
- University Professor
- Attorney
- Psychologist
- Marketing Account Executive
- Publisher/Editor
- Surgeon
- Investment Analyst
Beyond the Classroom
Experiential Learning
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.
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.
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.
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.
Bachelor of Arts in Foreign Languages Degree
- Including Virginia Tech's Pathways
Classical Studies Major Requirements
- 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
Minor and Elective Hours
Our program gives you the opportunity to build knowledge in another area by pursuing a minor, double major, or cognate.
120 hrs
B.A. Foreign Languages
45 hrs
General Education
36 hrs
Major Requirements
39 hrs
Elective
Campus Life
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