Classical Archaeology

Classical Archaeology at Dartmouth College offers students an in-depth exploration of the ancient Mediterranean world through the study of archaeological methods, material culture, and historical contexts. The program combines rigorous coursework in archaeological techniques, classical languages, and ancient history with hands-on excavation experiences and research projects. Students have the opportunity to analyze artefacts, site data, and architectural remains to better understand the social, political, religious, and cultural developments of ancient Greece and Rome. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical approaches and practical skills, preparing students for careers in archaeology, museum work, historic preservation, and related fields.

Throughout the program, students engage with a diverse array of topics including ancient sculpture, pottery, inscriptions, and urban planning. They learn to interpret archaeological finds in their historical settings, gaining insights into ancient daily life, belief systems, and societal organization. The program encourages active participation in archaeological fieldwork, often providing opportunities to participate in excavations abroad or at Dartmouth’s local archaeological sites. Academic advising and interdisciplinary collaboration foster a comprehensive understanding of classical antiquity, integrating insights from history, art history, and anthropology.

Graduates of the Classical Archaeology program develop critical analytical skills, cultural literacy, and a nuanced perspective on the ancient world. They are well-equipped to pursue advanced study or professional careers in archaeology, museum curation, cultural heritage management, or academic research. Dartmouth’s supportive academic environment, combined with access to faculty expertise and archaeological resources, ensures that students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. This program is ideal for students passionate about understanding the ancient civilizations that laid the foundations for Western culture and interested in uncovering the stories preserved in archaeology’s silent testimony.

REQUIREMENTS FOR MAJOR IN CLASSICAL ARCHAEOLOGY 

Prerequisite: CLST 6 (Introduction to Classical Archaeology), GRK (Intermediate Greek) or LAT 3 (Intermediate Latin), or equivalent.

Requirements:

1. One course in ancient history selected from CLST 14 (Greek History: Archaic and Classical Greece), CLST 15 (Alexander the Great and the Macedonean Kings), CLST 17 (Roman History: The Republic) or CLST 18 (History of the Roman Empire: Roman Principate to Christian Empire), or CLST 19 (Methods and Theory in Ancient History).
2. Three courses in Classical Archaeology selected from CLST 20-26 (CLST 20 Greek Prehistoric Archaeology: The Emergence of Civilization in the Aegean, CLST 21 From Disaster to Triumph: Greek Archaeology from the Destruction of Mycenae to the Persian Wars, CLST 22 Greek Classical Archaeology: City-States and Panhellenic Sanctuaries, CLST 24 Etruscan and Early Roman Archaeology: The Rise of Rome, CLST 25 Early Roman Imperial Archaeology: The First Emperors, CLST 26 Later Roman Imperial Archaeology: The Golden Age and Beyond).
3. Two courses from the Greek or Roman Foreign Study Programs (CLST 29 (Independent Study Project), CLST 30, CLST 31).
4. Two courses in ancient Greek or Latin numbered 10 or higher (GRK 10 Readings in Greek Prose and Poetry, GRK 20 Homer, GRK 22 The Lyric Age of Greece, GRK 24 Theatre, GRK 26 Intellectual Enquiry in Classical Athens, GRK 28 Philosophy, GRK 29 New Testament, GRK 30.03 Studies in Greek and Latin Literature, GRK 85 Independent Reading and Research, GRK 87 Thesis. LAT 10 Readings in Latin Prose and Poetry, LAT 20 Vergil, LAT 22 Literature of the Republic, LAT 24 The Augustan Age, LAT 26 Literature of the Early Empire, LAT 28 Literature of the Later Empire and the Middle Ages, LAT 30.02 Studies in Greek and Latin Literature, LAT 85 Independent Reading and Research, LAT 87 Thesis).
5. Two additional courses selected from: all remaining Classical Studies offerings,CLST 2 or higher; courses in Greek or Latin numbered 10 or higher (excluding GRK 11); ARTH 20 (The Art of Ancient Egypt and the Ancient Near East), ARTH 21 (Art in Ancient Greece: Temples, Gods, Heroes), ARTH 22 (Art in the Hellenistic era: from Alexander to Cleopatra), or ARTH 25 (Roman Art).
6. Completion of Culminating Experience Requirement 

REQUIREMENTS FOR MODIFIED MAJOR IN CLASSICAL ARCHAEOLOGY

Prerequisite: GRK or LAT 10, or equivalent.

Requirements:

1. Four courses selected from CLST 20-26.
2. One course in ancient history selected from CLST 14, CLST 15, CLST 17, CLST 18,or CLST 19.
3. One additional course selected from: all remaining Classical Studies offerings, CLST 2 or higher; courses in Greek or Latin numbered 10 or higher (excluding GRK 11).

Participation in either of the Department's two Foreign Study Programs will meet the requirements for two of the above six courses, one in archaeology and one in history (CLST 30 and CLST 31 respectlvely).

REQUIREMENTS FOR MINOR IN CLASSICAL ARCHAEOLOGY

Prerequisite: CLST 6.

Requirments:

1. Two courses in ancient history selected from CLST 11, CLST 14, CLST 15, CLST 17, CLST 18, or CLST 19.
2. Four courses in Classical archaeology: two in Greek archaeology (CLST 20-23), and two in Roman archaeology (CLST 24-26).

Participation in either of the Department’s two Foreign Study Programs will meet the requirements for two of the above six courses, one in archaeology and one in history (CLST 30 and CLST 31 respectively).

1.       SAT Reasoning or ACT (with Writing);

2.       2 SAT Subject Test Scores;

3.       The common application essay;

4.       Within the Common Application, Dartmouth’s writing supplement requires that applicants write a brief response to one of the following supplemental essay prompts. Candidates choose one topic and respond;

5.       A counselor recommendation and two teacher recommendations. In addition, a peer recommendation is strongly encouraged;

6.       Resume;

7.       Brief abstract of an independent research project;

8.       IELTS or TOEFL (no minimum scores).

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Classical Archaeology at Dartmouth College offers students a comprehensive exploration of ancient Mediterranean civilizations through the study of material culture, art, architecture, and archaeological methods. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, integrating art history, history, archaeology, and classical languages such as Latin and Greek to provide students with a nuanced understanding of ancient societies including Greece and Rome. Students have the opportunity to engage in fieldwork, examining archaeological sites and artifacts firsthand, which enhances their practical skills in excavation, analysis, and interpretation of ancient finds. Dartmouth's vibrant academic community fosters close collaboration between students and faculty scholars, many of whom are renowned experts in classical archaeology, archaeology, and classical studies.

The curriculum includes courses on ancient art and architecture, archaeological theory, and methodological approaches, along with language training that enables students to read original inscriptions and texts pertinent to archaeological contexts. Practical courses often include conservation techniques, digital documentation, and the use of modern technology in archaeology. The program encourages undergraduate research, providing funding and mentorship for projects such as excavations and detailed artifact analysis. Students also have access to collections and resources at Dartmouth’s Hood Museum of Art and extensive digital archives.

Graduates of the program pursue careers in archaeological research, museum curation, cultural heritage management, education, and further graduate study. The program aims to cultivate analytical skills, cultural awareness, and an appreciation for the cultural and historical significance of archaeological heritage. With a multidisciplinary focus and immersive learning experiences, Dartmouth’s Classical Archaeology program prepares students to contribute meaningfully to the understanding and preservation of ancient civilizations worldwide.