Programs of Study
Classical studies is at the root of Ignatian education and provides the student with a truly liberal educational experience. The foundations of western civilization, philosophy, religion, art, and culture derive from the civilizations of ancient Greece and Rome. Classical studies examines every area of society in some way and provides the framework and depth that students need to understand and evaluate the present. Whether studying the original languages of Latin or Greek, texts in translation, or the ancient arts and cultures, the student learns to interpret various types of texts and media and thereby develops the ability to understand and analyze the various modes of expression and communication from antiquity. Not only does work in classical studies foster reading and writing skills, but it also sharpens skills in critical thinking and critical analysis. Students will enhance their abilities to analyze complex developments and synthesize materials from numerous sources.
The major consists of 36 credit hours of study. The student completes a minimum of 18 hours of study in either Latin or Greek; the remaining 18 hours consist of additional courses in Latin or Greek, courses in classical humanities, and/or designated courses from related fields like history, philosophy, and religious studies. The major is very flexible and can be tailored to the student’s needs, whether he/she chooses to attend graduate school, teach at the secondary level, or enter some other area of postgraduate study like medicine or law. Students are encouraged to take a minor in related areas like those mentioned above. We are especially committed to preparing students to teach Latin on the secondary level to meet the growing need for dedicated middle and high school Latin teachers.
The program also offers a classical studies minor. The minor consists of 24 hours of study. Twelve hours consist of study in either Latin or Greek and 12 hours of study in classical humanities or related fields, which are selected by the student and adviser.
To see descriptions of our courses, use the links below:
Unique Resources:
The program is also the home of the Eta Gamma Chapter of Eta Sigma Phi, the national honorary organization for classical studies. Eligible students are invited to join Eta Sigma Phi in the spring semester.
Honors
Students wishing to earn honors in classical studies must have a 3.0 GPA in their major courses. Course work consists of the researching of a thesis under the supervision of a faculty mentor during the spring semester of the junior year and the writing and presentation of the thesis during the fall semester of the senior year. For further information, contact the classical studies chair.
Bachelor of Arts — Classical Studies
| Freshman | F | S | ||
| Major | A100 – 101 of Language | 3 | 3 | |
| Adjunct/Electives | 3 | 3 | ||
| Common Curriculum | 9 | 9 | ||
| 15 | 15 | |||
| 30 | ||||
| Sophomore | F | S | ||
| Major | A250 then A300 or A400 of Language | 3 | 3 | |
| Adjunct/Electives | 6 | 6 | ||
| Common Curriculum | 6 | 6 | ||
| 15 | 15 | |||
| 30 | ||||
| Junior | F | S | ||
| Major | A300 or A400 of Language | 3 | 3 | |
| Major | 3 | 3 | ||
| Adjunct/Electives | 3 | 3 | ||
| Common Curriculum | 6 | 6 | ||
| 15 | 15 | |||
| 30 | ||||
| Senior | F | S | ||
| Major | 6 | 3 | ||
| Capstone | 3 | |||
| Adjunct/Electives | 6 | 6 | ||
| Common Curriculum | 3 | 3 | ||
| 15 | 15 | |||
| 30 | ||||
| TOTAL: 120 cr. hrs. |