Overview

Classics at Northwestern offers a new model of classical studies for the 21st century. We offer a range of beginner to advanced courses, all of which provide stimulating and demanding material and develop skills in writing, critical analysis, and the exploration of other cultures. Classics has consistently been on the forefront of innovation in the curriculum from participating in selective interdisciplinary undergraduate programs to spearheading in the humanities. 

Classics majors may pursue a concentration in Latin, Greek, or both languages. For a Classics minor, students may choose a concentration with readings in Latin or in Greek or a classical studies concentration with sources in English translation only.

Beyond coursework, we place great emphasis on research skills in seminars and research opportunities, making Classics very active in the university-wide initiative to enrich undergraduate experience in research. We also strongly encourage students to undertake in Rome or Athens for a summer, a term, or the academic year.

Career paths

Classics is a demanding and distinctive course of study that stresses the development of some exceedingly important intellectual sensibilities—close reading, analytical clarity, thorough research, evaluation of evidence, logical analysis, effective writing, appreciation of nuance and subtleties, historical variability, cultural differences. Our students are well prepared to succeed after college. Recent majors have gone on to graduate school and employment in fields as varied as medicine, law, art history, business, secondary education and, sometimes, even Classics. The database maintained by the Northwestern Career Advancement office highlights the breadth of professional opportunities offered to Classics majors in terms of industry areas, jobs/internships, typical employers, skills employers look for, and examples of where alumni work.