Students who major in classical studies often pursue graduate studies in classical languages and literature, art history, ancient history, archaeology, comparative literature, and museum studies. Additional career opportunities are possible depending upon the specialization the student chooses. Small class sizes, emphasis on critical thinking and expression, and a faculty committed to involvement in lower-level undergraduate courses also make this major appealing to students who want excellent preparation for entry to professional schools (e.g., medicine or law).
Specializations
Ancient Language
The ancient language specialization is appropriate for students wishing to have direct contact with the literature and culture of the ancients, and for those who plan to do graduate study in Greek or Latin. Students interested in admission to competitive graduate programs need a minimum of three years of upper-division courses in ancient Greek or Latin and an additional year in the remaining language.
Classical Civilization
The classical civilization specialization is appropriate for those who desire a broad humanities background or are considering admission to graduate school in archaeology, ancient history or an unrelated field such as medicine or law. Students interested in admission to competitive graduate programs in archaeology or ancient history should consult the Department of Classics' undergraduate coordinator for information on specific requirements.
Modern Greek
The modern Greek specialization is appropriate for students wishing to have direct contact with the language, literature, and culture of modern Greece and a closer acquaintance with ancient and medieval Greek civilization. Students study in greater detail the numerous communities of the diaspora, which includes the large and flourishing Greek-American communities of Florida, their history and contemporary culture. By learning a modern European language, students can work in translation, education, services, tourism, the entertainment industry, and political or financial institutions with ties to Greece or Cyprus.
Teacher Certification
Students who want to be high-school Latin teachers should follow the teacher certification specialization. Students who pursue the Florida Teaching minor have the coursework and preparation for professional teacher certification in Florida when they graduate. Alternatively, students can consider a minor in educational studies that would be beneficial if applying to the ProTeach program. Students should consult the College of Education for more information.
Coursework for the Major
Students must complete 21-30 credits of coursework for the classical studies major; the total is dependent upon the specialization. Students must earn a minimum grade of C in a course for it to be applied to the major; no S/U courses can be applied. The Department of Classics requires that a minimum 15 credits of major-related courses be completed at the University of Florida.
All classical studies majors are also required to demonstrate proficiency in Latin, ancient Greek, or modern Greek, depending on the specialization. Credits earned in language courses are not included in the 21-30 credits of coursework for the major.
Overseas Studies
Students may participate in summer, semester, or academic year programs in Italy and Greece. Competitive scholarships for study abroad are available. Students in the modern Greek specialization are encouraged to participate in programs in Greece or Cyprus supported with competitive scholarships by the Center for Greek Studies and other organizations in the United States, Greece, and the European Union.
Placement
Refer to Placement Testing and Evaluation for information on placement into Latin.