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Classics

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Classics

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What is Classics?

A degree in classics will acquaint students with the major languages, the chief literary figures, and the cultures of ancient Greece and Rome.

In addition to their study of these ancient civilizations, classics majors also learn about the important role that the classical tradition has played in shaping the literature, arts, and general culture of Western civilization. Through its focus on the classical world, the program gives particular attention to the skills necessary for success in the information age: oral and written communication, independent and critical thinking, and the management and evaluation of information.

Students in classics study the languages, literatures, culture, and history of ancient Greece and Rome. We offer undergraduate majors in classical studies, classical languages, and Latin. Students can also minor in classical culture, Greek, or Latin.

Students also have the opportunity to participate in archaeological excavations at various sites in the Mediterranean region under the auspices of the Center for Classical Archaeology and Civilizations, which is housed in the Department of Classics and Letters.

Recent graduates have pursued advanced degrees in classics at the University of Iowa, the University of Virginia, the University of Missouri, the University of Buffalo, and Cambridge University. The classics major also provides excellent preparation for lawmedicine, and religious ministry. Our graduates have followed a staggering variety of career paths.

So, what's my degree?

A classics student graduates with a Bachelor of Arts degree. Minors in classics, Greek, and Latin are also available.

Do my interests fit?

Classics students typically have interests in:

  • Archaeology
  • Art and Art History
  • History
  • Language
  • Law
  • Literature
  • Medicine
  • Mythology
  • Philosophy
  • Religious studies

How can OU Classics help me?

Full-time faculty teach all of our courses, and many of them have opportunities for undergraduate students to participate in research projects. We have an academic counselor on staff to help you plan your schedule and graduate on time. Classics also has many scholarships available to help with tuition and other expenses. We also have many alumni interested in mentoring current classics majors at OU. Finally, we work closely with the Dodge Family College of Arts and Sciences and Career Services to help our students plan for their future.

What courses will I take?

Classics courses include:

  • The Rise & Fall of Ancient Greece
  • The Rise & Fall of Ancient Rome
  • Classical Mythology
  • Classical Archaeology 
  • Beginning Latin
  • Beginning Greek
  • Gods and Heroes in Art
  • Classical Mythology
  • Medical Vocabulary
  • Law and Justice (taught by the University Provost)
  • Gladiators, Sports, Spectacles: Violent Entertainment in Ancient Rome 

Wait, I can have a minor?

Classics students may want to consider these minors:

How can I study abroad?

The Department of Classics and Letters has several study abroad opportunities for students of the classics. In addition, OU has numerous study abroad opportunities for students of all majors. Whether you want to take electives, lower-division courses, or major requirements, be sure to check out what education abroad opportunities are available to you through the College of International Studies. 

What kind of career could I pursue?

Historical societies
Publishing companies
Educational institutions
Research institutions
Film companies
Insurance
Banking
Finance
Accounting
Government agencies
Law

See where some of our recent alumni are now employed.

How much will I make?

Visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ website to explore the median pay for jobs you can pursue with this degree. 

Contact Us

Department of Classics and Letters
Phone: (405) 325-6921
Email: classicsandletters@ou.edu
Website: http://www.ou.edu/cas/classicsandletters