As a Classics major, you can immerse yourself in the cultures of ancient Greece and Rome through four different tracks (Classics, Greek, Latin, Classical Civilization) taking programs in ancient languages, literature, history, archaeology, history of art, science, linguistics and philosophy. Classics majors work closely with individual professors in their areas of expertise, often in small classes, and have many opportunities for independent research and travel. The rigorous analytical training characteristic of a Classics degree helps to develop skills that are valued in a wide variety of careers, as well as giving students a firm foundation for understanding the history of Western culture. With a minor in classics, you’ll conduct your own odyssey through the ancient Mediterranean world by taking any five coherent classics courses (above 1000-level) from one of four different tracks, acquiring proficiency in either Greek or Latin along the way: Classical literature Ancient history (with emphasis on either Greek or Roman) Ancient philosophy Classical art and archaeology
Requirements
Want to start right away? Here are some basic requirements for students wanting to major in classics. The complete list of formal requirement can be found on the Courses of Study page.
The major in Classics offers four tracks — Latin, Greek, classics (combined Latin and Greek emphases) and classical civilization. Only classes passed with a C– or better may be applied to the classics major. One course must yield a seminar paper of at least 4000 words.
Sample classes
- Greek Mythology
- Introduction to Ancient Medicine
- Magic and Witchcraft in the Greco-Roman World
- Theater, Sport and Spectacle
Outcomes
All information below is based on the 2022 First-Destination Post-Graduate Survey. Lists are not exhaustive, rather they are a sampling of the data. If you would like more information, please email as_careers@cornell.edu
What can you do with a degree in Classics?
Graduate school:
Classics students pursued various advanced degrees like their MA and PhD. Their graduate field interest ranges from classics to law and archaeology.
These ambitious individuals have chosen to continue their education at prestigious institutions like American University, Boston College, Harvard University, the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, and Yale University.
Employment:
The majority of classics graduates entered sectors in education, consulting, and financial services.
Where 2022 Classics Graduates Work
| Employer | Job Titles |
|---|---|
| Brian Pattern and Associates | Benefits Advisor |
| Ecolectro | Chemist |
| Goldman Sachs | Analyst |
| Museum of Modern Art | Assistant Video Editor |
| Smithsonian Institution | Archive Center Intern |
