COURSE CURRICULUM

The Classics major with the Ancient Mediterranean Civilizations (AMC) option is designed for students who want an in-depth study of the ancient Greek and Roman worlds while also gaining flexibility to explore related cultures and advanced research. The program combines language training, historical study, literature, and cultural analysis to help students understand how ancient civilizations shaped ideas about politics, philosophy, art, and society that still influence the modern world. A key requirement is language proficiency, which students demonstrate by completing at least 8 credits in advanced Greek (GREK) or Latin (LATN) at the 503 level or higher. This ensures that students can read and interpret original ancient texts, which is central to serious classical study. In addition to language work, students complete at least 32 credits of coursework in Classics, Greek, or Latin, including foundational courses such as Introduction to Greek Civilization (CLAS 403) or Introduction to Roman Civilization (CLAS 404). At least 8 of these credits must come from advanced 600-level or higher courses, allowing students to engage with more specialized and complex topics such as ancient philosophy, history, literature, and archaeology. The curriculum emphasizes both breadth and depth, encouraging students to explore multiple dimensions of the ancient Mediterranean world. A significant component of the major is the capstone experience, which may be completed through a senior seminar (CLAS 701W), a senior or honors thesis, advanced language coursework, an approved internship, or a study abroad program focused on classical studies. This capstone allows students to synthesize their learning and demonstrate independent research skills. Overall, the AMC option requires 40 credits and provides strong preparation for careers or graduate study in fields such as history, law, education, archaeology, museum work, cultural heritage, and humanities research, while also building critical thinking, writing, and analytical skills applicable across many disciplines.