For a Major in Classics

The major in classics involves a program in both Greek and Latin languages and literatures, and in Greek and Roman civilization. Students generally emphasize the study of one of the languages (the primary language), but significant study of the other (secondary) language is required as well. The major requires a total of 34 points, of which 20 points must be taken in the primary language above the 1100 level, eight in the secondary language above the 1100 level, and six in ancient history and classical civilization.

The courses in the primary language include five courses at the 3000 or 4000 level, including the majors seminar (V3996) and two of the following: elements of prose style (W4139), the survey of the literature (W4105-W4106), and the senior Essay (V3998).  Classics majors must also take the major seminar (V3996).

These minimum required courses total 15-17 points (depending on whether the student chooses to take none, one, or both of the literature survey courses, which are offered for four points each). A major who begins the primary language at Columbia and takes (i) the intensive intermediate course and (ii) one or both of the literature survey courses thus complete the 20-point minimum. A major who begins the primary language at Columbia and takes the intensive intermediate course but takes neither survey needs one additional course to complete the 20-point minimum. Majors who take the regular intermediate sequence or more 3000- and 4000-level courses may well complete more.

Those planning to go on to graduate study in classics are urged to take both terms of W4105-W410 if possible.

To be eligible for departmental honors, students must take V3998.

The courses in the secondary language will at least the completion of the regular intermediate sequence (V1201-V1202); those who take the intensive intermediate course (V1221) or who come to Columbia with a background in the secondary language must take one or more courses at a higher level. Students planning graduate work in classics are encouraged to complete at least three years in the secondary language if possible.
Students are to take at least two terms of ancient history. At least one of these terms must be taken in the pertinent civilization (i.e., Roman history if the primary language is Latin). One appropriate course of a historical nature chosen from the classical civilization courses in the Department of Classics or from offerings in the Programs or Departments of Ancient Studies, Art History and Archaeology, History, or Religion may be substituted for 3 points of this requirement. All substitutions must be approved by the director of undergraduate studies.

Majors who intend to pursue graduate studies in classics are strongly urged to acquire a reading knowledge at least of German and preferably also of French; Italian is also useful.

Although it is easier to complete the major if at least one classical language is begun no later than the first year, it is possible to begin one classical language in the sophomore year and the other in the junior year and still complete the major.

For a Track in Classical Studies

The track in classical studies requires a total of 35 points, of which 20 points must be taken in one or both of the ancient languages above the 1101 level. The major seminar must be among the courses taken toward attaining these 20 points.

Students are required to achieve 3 points by completing a research paper (at 3998 level) on a chosen aspect of Greek or Roman civilization under the direction of a faculty member.

For a Major in Ancient Studies

Students interested in a major in ancient studies should see Ancient Studies in this bulletin.

Students interested in a major in ancient studies should see the Ancient Studies Program listing.

For a Concentration in Classics

The concentration in classics is designed for those who begin the study of classical languages too late to allow the completion of the major requirements but still wish a substantial program in Greek and Latin. It requires a minimum of 24 points, as follows: 17 points of the primary language not counting courses at the 1100 level, four points of the secondary language not counting 1101 but counting 1102 or 1121, and three points of ancient history or classical civilization. The courses in the primary language must include two terms at the 3000 or 4000 level plus the appropriate composition course (W4139).

For a Special Concentration in Modern Greek Studies

The special concentration in modern Greek studies is designed for students who wish to combine the study of modern Greek with a major or regular concentration. It requires a minimum of 24 points as follows: four or five modern Greek courses (a minimum of 15 points) to be taken above the 1202 level, including GRKM V3998 Senior research seminar to be completed under the supervision of a staff member; two additional courses to be taken in related fields, including (but not limited to) classics, history, anthropology, political science, and sociology. These courses are to be chosen in consultation with the adviser and should conform to the student’s overall course of studies.