About the Program
Classical studies is one of William & Mary's five original departments. Studying the culture, history and archaeology of ancient Mediterranean civilizations provides a solid background for understanding modern cultures. You will also gain historical perspective, critical thinking and communication skills. The department offers specialized training in the Greek and Latin languages and in classical civilization for vocational or professional purposes. Language instruction in ancient Greek and Latin can reveal deeper meanings of classical texts and provides a basis for learning modern languages. Classical civilization courses provide a solid background for understanding modern cultures.
Focus Your Studies with a Concentration
Ancient Greek
Latin
Classical civilization
Classical archaeology
What Makes Us Different
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Faculty Research
Faculty conduct research that touches on almost every aspect of the ancient Mediterranean world: history, archaeology, art, literature, religion, sexuality and gender, identity and ethnicity.
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Student Research
Present papers at annual conferences, such as the Classical Association of the Middle West and South or the joint American Philological Association/Archaeological Institute of America conference.
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International Partnerships
W&M is an institutional member of the American School of Classical Studies at Athens, the Intercollegiate Center for Classical Studies in Rome, the University of Athens, Greece and College Year in Athens.
Applied Learning
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Courses
Explore interests in the ancient world from Critical Questions in Classical Studies (CLCV 100) to Food and Drink in the Ancient World (CLCV 412).*
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Research
Conduct research in any aspect of the ancient world — such as history, literature and material culture.
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Field Work
Spend the summer in archaeological field schools in Greece, Italy and the greater Mediterranean area.
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Student Organizations
Join the Classics Club for classically themed activities as well as Latin and Greek tutoring. Become a member of the Eta Sigma Phi honor society to be eligible for scholarships and awards.
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Competitions
Compete in translation competitions such as the Classical Association of the Middle West and South in Greek and Latin or the National Latin Exam.
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Study Abroad
Visit archaeological sites and study classic civilizations in their original settings during summer studies in Rome and Pompeii in Italy and Athens and Nafplio in Greece.
Hear from a Student
"My favorite thing about being a classical studies major is that since the department is on the smaller side, I get to know my classmates and professors really well. I also studied abroad in Rome and Pompeii. Getting to actually see so many of the places, buildings and artworks that before were only pictures in textbooks helped cultivate new perspectives on learning about ancient cultures. There is so much that you can't truly understand about these cultures until you've walked the streets of Pompeii or stood in the Roman Forum." — Sarah Long '25 classical studies major with a concentration in Latin from Concord, Massachusetts
Outcomes
Classical studies alumni have continued on to graduate programs including law school and medical school. They have also pursued careers in many non-academic professions, including pharmacy, banking, architecture, business, museum work and library science.
Talk to Us
Want to learn more? Our current students and faculty want to connect with you.
Department of Classical Studies
Contact Us
- Get an inside look: Contact a current classical studies major
- Ask the faculty: Contact the Department of Classical Studies
Courses Disclaimer
*Courses listed are examples. Course availability changes each semester.
