Classical Studies, MA

Degree: Master of Arts (MA)
Field of Study: Classical Studies


Program Overview

The MA program in Classical Studies, which includes an optional concentration in Medieval Studies, teaches students to critically analyze texts and material culture by using various theoretical approaches. It also stresses ethical use of sources and material artifacts, which requires providing proper citations and obtaining permission to publish. 

The program offers a broad selection of courses categorized by era (Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic, Republican, Imperial, and Medieval) and genre (epic, tragedy, comedy, history, satire, elegy) as well as material culture courses in art history, archaeology, and epigraphy.

How to Apply

Interested individuals can apply to the program through the School of Graduate Studies and are admitted under Plan A (Master's Thesis).

Application Requirements

  • Transcripts
  • GPA: 3.5 or higher recommended
  • 2 years of college-level Greek or Latin
  • GRE scores
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Statement of purpose

Application Deadlines

For fall semester enrollment: May 1 

For spring semester enrollment: November 1 (for applicants seeking both admission and financial aid) 

Graduate Policies

For graduate policies and procedures, please review the School of Graduate Studies section of the General Bulletin.

Program Requirements

Students are to maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher throughout the programs.  Full-time students should complete their degrees within two years, part-time students within five years.

Required Courses
CLSC 416Alexander the Great: Materials and Methods3
CLSC 651Thesis M.A.6
Elective Courses
Two Classics courses at the 400-level or above6
Five courses of any combination of Greek or Latin at the 400-level or above15
Total Credit Hours30

Thesis 

Students are required to write a substantial (at least 12,000-13,000 words or approximately 50 pages), carefully argued, original piece of scholarship that is critically documented with both primary and secondary sources on a topic in Classics, under the direction of a faculty advisor. They are also required to give an oral presentation and defense. As the culminating learning experience, the thesis gives students an opportunity to demonstrate expertise in their chosen area of research. 

Concentration Requirements

Medieval Track 

Required Courses
CLSC 416Alexander the Great: Materials and Methods3
CLSC 651Thesis M.A.6
LATN 409Medieval Latin3
Elective Courses
Two courses in any subject in Medieval Studies at the 400-level or above6
Four courses of any combination of Greek or Latin at the 400-level or above12
Total Credit Hours30