Classics (Honors) Stanford University

Overview

The Classics (Honors) at Stanford University offers a profound exploration into the foundational civilisations of the Mediterranean and their enduring global influence. Students engage in a multidisciplinary study that bridges ancient history, archaeology, and linguistics to understand the roots of modern society.

This programme is designed for those seeking an advanced academic challenge through the School of Humanities and Sciences. It encourages students to examine the interactions between diverse cultures and the evolution of human thought from antiquity to the present day.

The curriculum is distinguished by its breadth, covering everything from ancient economics and law to papyrology and science. By integrating material culture with literary analysis, the department ensures a holistic understanding of the Greek and Roman worlds.

Why Classics (Honors) at Stanford University?

The programme is delivered by a world-class faculty within the School of Humanities and Sciences, known for an interdisciplinary approach that crosses geographical and temporal boundaries. Students benefit from a rich academic environment that connects ancient traditions with contemporary issues.

Facilities and resources at the university support deep research into Greek and Latin texts, as well as the material remains of ancient societies. The department emphasises the relevance of classical antiquity in understanding modern concepts of race, justice, and governance.

Distinctive teaching features include small seminar-style classes and the opportunity to work closely with experts in specialised fields such as ancient mathematics and eloquence. This creates a supportive atmosphere for high-level intellectual development and original research.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 22577 per semester
• National fee: USD 22577 per semester
• Local fee: USD 21709 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Greek Tragedy: Gods, Heroes, Fate, and Justice
• Race and Classical Antiquity in the U.S.
• Greek Invention of Mathematics
• Race, Blackness, Antiquity
• Roman Gladiators
• Eloquence Personified: How To Speak Like Cicero
• Beginning Greek
• Beginning Latin
• Roman Empire: Its Grandeur and Fall
• Making fun of History: Insults, Mockery and Abuse Language in Antiquity
• Greek Mythology
• Great Books, Big Ideas from Ancient Greece and Rome
• Philosophy and Literature
• Global History: The Ancient World
• Ancient Empires: Near East
• Greeks
• Romans

Careers with Classics (Honors)

Graduates of this programme are equipped with exceptional analytical, linguistic, and research skills that are highly valued across various professional sectors. The ability to synthesise complex information prepares students for diverse career paths in the modern workforce.

Common industries for graduates include law, education, journalism, and international relations. Many students also pursue advanced roles in museum curation, archival work, and heritage management, leveraging their expertise in material culture and ancient history.

The rigorous nature of the honors track also serves as an excellent foundation for postgraduate study. Alumni often secure positions in public policy, publishing, and various creative industries where critical thinking and cultural literacy are essential requirements.