The major in classics offers two broad areas in which a student may concentrate: classical languages (Greek, Latin, or Greek and Latin) or Classical Humanities. Courses in Greek and Latin deal with the literature of ancient Greece and Rome and readings are in the original Greek and Latin. In classical humanities courses (Classics rubric), all readings are in English translations. Students interested in classics and ancient history may also devise a combined major program of study in consultation with the advisors from classics and history.

Why choose classics?

The Department of Classics concentrates on the study of languages, literature and cultures of Greece and Rome, focusing on Antiquity but including all periods from the Bronze Age to Modern Greece. This study is important, as the origins of western and much Near Eastern literature, philosophy, art, religion and social forms lay in the ancient world.

Department strengths lie in ancient religion and myth all the way to the Middle Ages; literary critical readings of antiquity from theoretical perspectives; epigraphy and Latin paleography (advanced by Ohio State’s Center for Epigraphical and Palaeographical Studies); and the diachronic Greek tradition.

What can you do with this degree?

Graduates in classics find their marketable skills considerably enhanced by their humanities education. A major in classics, Greek or Latin in coordination with a minor in another subject and relevant specialized course work provides excellent preparation for a career in medicine, business, law, education, politics, government, media, publishing and many other areas of employment.