Classics
The Master of Arts in Classics at Boston College University offers a focused and intellectually rigorous program for students interested in the languages, literature, history, and philosophy of the ancient Greek and Roman worlds. The curriculum is designed to deepen students’ understanding of classical antiquity through the close reading of primary texts in their original languages and the exploration of cultural and historical contexts. Through intensive language study and interpretive analysis, students develop philological precision and critical reasoning that prepare them for advanced academic work or careers requiring deep cultural literacy.
In addition to linguistic training, the program integrates literary theory, archaeology, and classical reception studies to provide a multidimensional view of classical civilization. Learners engage with themes such as politics, mythology, ethics, and the legacy of antiquity in later periods. By balancing traditional scholarship with modern perspectives, students gain the ability to analyze ancient sources and articulate their relevance to contemporary questions. The program cultivates textual insight, intellectual discipline, and a refined approach to interpreting historical material.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Classics
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 February 2026
- Location: Boston College, United States
- Field of Study: Classics
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1
- Advanced Latin or Ancient Greek Language
- Classical Literature and Interpretation
- Ancient History and Society
- Research Methods in Classical Studies
Semester 2
- Comparative Study of Greek and Roman Texts
- Classical Philosophy and Thought
- Seminar in Classical Reception or Archaeology
- Capstone Thesis or Translation Project
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for a range of professional and academic paths where classical knowledge, linguistic ability, and analytical thinking are valued. Many pursue roles as Latin or Greek instructors, museum researchers, archivists, or educational editors, contributing to institutions that require historical literacy and interpretive expertise. Opportunities also exist in publishing, cultural heritage organizations, secondary and postsecondary education, and library science. The program’s emphasis on language mastery, close reading, and historical understanding equips graduates to teach, curate classical materials, or support scholarly projects. Some graduates continue to doctoral studies in classics, ancient history, or comparative literature, while others apply their training in fields like law, theology, or public policy, where a deep cultural foundation enhances analytical perspective.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students who want to engage intensively with the classical world through a curriculum that prioritizes both linguistic mastery and interpretive sophistication. The academic environment supports close faculty mentorship, seminar style discussions, and independent research, fostering deep exploration of ancient texts and ideas. Learners are encouraged to connect classical traditions to modern debates, developing the ability to communicate their insights with clarity and historical awareness. With a focus on intellectual discipline, cultural depth, and language proficiency, the program offers a meaningful and academically enriching experience shaped by rigorous classical scholarship, preparing graduates to thrive in a wide range of scholarly or professional pursuits.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 617 552 8000
Email: admissions@bostoncollege.edu
Address: University of Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, United States
