Classics, BA

Degree: Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Major: Classics


Program Overview

The core of all our classics majors is the study of the languages and literatures of ancient Greece and Rome and the societies that spoke Greek and Latin until the end of the ancient world (usually taken as the 5th century of the Common Era). We have four different concentrations: Greek, Latin, Greek & Latin, or Classical Civilization (the latter requiring less language proficiency). These different concentrations uniquely offer exposure to a range of approaches: literary, philological, historical, archaeological, art historical, philosophical, and anthropological. In addition, we now offer several courses on the ancient Near East and Egypt for a wider perspective on the ancient world.

Study in Related Fields

Each student completing the classics major is strongly advised to choose a minor, selected in consultation with and approved by the departmental advisor, in such closely related fields as ancient Near Eastern and Egyptian studies, anthropology, art history, philosophy, world literature, history, theater, or English. 

Learning Outcomes

  • Students will be able to master elementary vocabulary, morphology, and syntax of Greek and/or Latin, compose and express ideas in Greek and Latin, translate into idiomatic English a Greek and/or Latin text accurately, differeniate between prose and poetry, know some common rhetorical figures, place these texts in their appropriate historical, literary, and cultural contexts, and discuss questions posed by modern literary theorists.
  • Students will be able to identify the salient themes, styles, and social differences among the major historical periods, have a broad knowledge of the geography of the ancient world and the many facets of Greek and Roman society such as state formation, the development of the polis, political institutions, colonization and imperialism, literature, art, architecture, theater, mythology, religion, medicine, science, philosophy, athletics, and daily life.
  • Students will be able to recognize and articulate the fundamental variety of classical genres and major authors.
  • Students will be able to know the important difference and weighting between primary and secondary sources, know and differientiate between literary and material culture evidence, and be able to locate, read, understand, and critically analyze these sources.
  • Students will be able to investigate a topic and write a research paper in Classics that uses both primary and secondary sources and be able to present its main idea or ideas orally.
  • Students will be able to know the basic contours of the profession, including career options, and institutional landscape.

Teacher Licensure

Students admitted to Case Western Reserve University prior to Fall 2024 can declare a second major in Teacher Education and prepare for licensure in Adolescent to Young Adult (grades 7-12) in any one of the following areas: Integrated Language Arts (English major), Integrated Social Studies (history major), Integrated Mathematics (mathematics major), Life Science (biology major), or Physical Science (chemistry or physics major); or 2) Multi-Age (grades preK–12) in French, Spanish, or Latin. Eligible students interested in the teacher education program should refer to the General Bulletin for the year they entered Case Western Reserve University for the specific program requirements. 

Undergraduate Policies

For undergraduate policies and procedures, please review the Undergraduate Academics section of the General Bulletin.

Accelerated Master's Programs

Undergraduate students may participate in accelerated programs toward graduate or professional degrees. For more information and details of the policies and procedures related to accelerated studies, please visit the Undergraduate Academics section of the General Bulletin.