Classical Civilization
The Bachelor of Arts in Classical Civilization offers a comprehensive exploration of the cultures, histories, languages, and intellectual traditions of ancient Greece and Rome. Students examine foundational texts, archaeological evidence, and artistic works that illuminate how classical societies shaped philosophy, politics, literature, and cultural identity throughout the Western world. Coursework encourages learners to engage deeply with epic poetry, drama, historiography, and classical mythology, developing strong interpretive and analytical skills. This academic foundation strengthens contextual insight, critical reasoning, historical awareness, and interpretive depth, enabling students to analyze ancient societies with scholarly precision.
Over four years, students investigate major themes such as empire, citizenship, religion, art, warfare, and social life, exploring how classical ideas continue to influence contemporary culture and thought. The curriculum integrates language study, archaeological interpretation, comparative analysis, and research-based inquiry, allowing learners to connect ancient texts with material culture and historical developments. Through seminars, writing-intensive projects, independent study, and interdisciplinary coursework, students refine their ability to evaluate evidence, synthesize information, and construct persuasive arguments about the ancient world. This sustained engagement cultivates methodological rigor, research competence, comparative understanding, and scholarly independence, preparing graduates to interpret classical civilizations with depth and intellectual clarity.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Classical Civilization
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 02 January 2026
- Location: Yale University, United States
- Field of Study: Classics
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Classical Study
· Introduction to Classical Civilization
· Greek and Roman Mythology
· Fundamentals of Textual and Cultural Interpretation
· Methods in Historical and Literary Research
Year 2 – Core Themes in Ancient History & Culture
· Greek History or Roman History
· Classical Literature in Translation
· Art and Archaeology of the Ancient World
· Research Methods in Classics
Year 3 – Advanced Classical Inquiry
· Topics in Greek or Roman Thought
· Classical Drama, Epic, or Historiography
· Ancient Society and Cultural Identity
· Independent Study / Classical Research Project
Year 4 – Thesis & Scholarly Integration
· Senior Thesis / Classical Civilization Research
· Advanced Seminar in Classics
· Topics in Ancient Philosophy, Religion, or Cultural Exchange
· Academic Portfolio & Presentation Skills
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program pursue careers requiring strong analytical reasoning, cultural literacy, and historical interpretation. Many work in museums and cultural institutions, education and academic settings, archival or research organizations, and nonprofit or public service sectors, where they contribute to historical interpretation, cultural programming, and educational outreach. Additional opportunities arise in publishing, journalism, law, public policy, archaeology, heritage management, and roles requiring strong communication and analytical skills. With training in textual interpretation, historical research, and cross-cultural analysis, graduates can evaluate complex evidence, collaborate on interdisciplinary projects, and support initiatives that promote historical understanding and cultural preservation.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students seeking a curriculum grounded in comprehensive classical inquiry, offering insight into the foundational texts and cultural developments of the ancient world. Over four years, learners strengthen their analytical, research, and interpretive abilities through language study, historical exploration, and interdisciplinary coursework. The curriculum fosters industry-relevant expertise suited for careers in education, cultural heritage, research, and communication-based fields. With its emphasis on contextual analysis, historical clarity, and intellectual engagement, the program cultivates strong intellectual judgment, preparing graduates to approach ancient civilizations with depth and to apply classical insights to modern cultural and academic contexts.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 203 432 2300
Email: admissions@yale.edu
Address: University of Yale, New Haven, CT 06520, United States
