Classics
The Classics program at Northwestern University invites students to explore the languages, literature, philosophy, history, and culture of the ancient Greek and Roman worlds. This four-year Bachelor of Arts degree offers a deep and multidisciplinary education that traces the roots of Western civilization and examines the enduring influence of classical antiquity on contemporary society. Through close study of primary texts in translation or original languages, students engage with ideas about politics, ethics, religion, and human nature that continue to shape modern discourse. The program emphasizes critical interpretation, linguistic precision, and cultural insight, fostering intellectual depth across a wide academic spectrum.
Students benefit from small, discussion-based classes, personalized faculty mentorship, and opportunities to conduct independent research. In addition to mastering Greek and Latin, they examine archaeological findings, historical documents, and philosophical writings that illuminate ancient societies and their legacies. Whether analyzing Homeric epics, Roman law, or ancient drama, students build strong analytical and communication skills while deepening their understanding of the complexities of classical civilizations. The interdisciplinary nature of the curriculum allows students to connect their classical training with modern disciplines such as political theory, literature, art history, and philosophy.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Classics
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 02 January 2026
- Location: Northwestern University, United States
- Field of Study: Classics
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Classical Language and Culture
• Introduction to Classical Literature
• Elementary Ancient Greek or Latin I & II
• History of the Ancient Mediterranean
• Writing and Interpretation in the Humanities
Year 2 – Language Proficiency and Textual Analysis
• Intermediate Greek or Latin Texts
• Greek Mythology and Society
• Roman Culture and Civilization
• Elective: Classical Philosophy or Ancient Art
Year 3 – Thematic and Historical Depth
• Advanced Greek or Latin: Epic or Drama
• Gender and Identity in Antiquity
• Classical Historiography
• Elective: Ancient Politics or Archaeological Methods
Year 4 – Capstone and Specialization
• Senior Seminar in Classical Studies
• Independent Research Project or Honors Thesis
• Seminar in Reception of the Classics
• Elective: Comparative Literature or Digital Humanities in Classics
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Classics program possess analytical rigor, linguistic agility, and cultural literacy that open doors to many professional fields. Alumni pursue careers in education, museum curation, editing and publishing, law, and public policy, where their training in close reading, logical reasoning, and persuasive communication proves highly valuable. Many students go on to graduate study in classics, philosophy, history, archaeology, or theology, while others apply their interdisciplinary background in library science, journalism, or international relations. The ability to engage deeply with complex texts and think critically across time and culture makes graduates strong candidates for roles that demand intellectual versatility and thoughtful analysis.
Why Choose This Program
Northwestern’s Classics program stands out for its balance of rigorous language training and expansive cultural inquiry. Students are not only introduced to foundational texts but are encouraged to ask big questions about power, identity, memory, and legacy. The program fosters a collaborative and intellectually curious community, supported by faculty who are active researchers and passionate educators. Students also have access to study-abroad programs, archaeological field schools, and digital tools that bring antiquity to life in contemporary ways. Whether pursuing a future in academia, the humanities, or a wide array of professional fields, students graduate with the insight and skills to engage with the modern world through the lens of ancient thought.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 312 555 2040
Email: admissions@northwestern.edu
Address: University of Northwestern, 633 Clark Street, Evanston, IL 60208, United States
