Classical Studies

Do stories of Plato and Aristotle make you want to go back in time? When you list your passions and your interests, do ancient cultures jump to the top of the list? Ancient Greece and Rome, their cultures, religions, history, literature, and philosophy fascinate you. You dream of learning the languages to learn from the original ancient texts. Look no further: your time has come. In Classical Studies, you'll gain a deep understanding of the history, culture, literature, religion, philosophy, art, and society of ancient Greece and Rome. Learn enough ancient Greek and Latin to study original ancient texts. Benefit from guest speakers films, field trips, and study abroad opportunities. Gain hands-on field experience on Mediterranean sites, mainly in Greece and Italy.

Field of study: Classical, Ancient Mediterranean and Near Eastern Studies and Archaeology

Program Overview:

The Bachelor of Arts in Classical Studies at the University of Waterloo offers students an in-depth exploration of the ancient Greek and Roman worlds, their languages, literatures, histories, philosophies, and cultures. This comprehensive program is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in both Greek and Latin languages, enabling them to read and interpret original texts, as well as analyze their historical and cultural contexts. Through a combination of language courses, literature studies, and historical seminars, students develop critical thinking skills and a nuanced understanding of classical civilizations that have significantly shaped Western heritage.

Curriculum and Courses:

The program's curriculum includes introductory and advanced courses in Ancient Greek and Latin linguistics, grammar, and syntax, leading to proficiency in reading and translating original texts. Students also enroll in literature courses covering epic, lyric, lyric poetry, drama, philosophical treatises, and historical writings of antiquity, fostering close textual analysis and interpretive skills. Additionally, courses in Classical Mythology, Art, Archaeology, and History contextualize the literary works within the broader scope of ancient societal developments, political structures, and cultural practices.

Research Opportunities and Practical Skills:

Students are encouraged to participate in research projects, seminars, and discussions that deepen their understanding of classical texts and their influence on modern culture. The program emphasizes the development of analytical writing, oral communication, and research skills, preparing graduates for careers in education, archaeology, museum curation, translation, or further graduate study.

Experiential Learning:

The University of Waterloo's Classical Studies program offers various experiential learning opportunities, including access to extensive library resources, potential field trips to archaeological sites, and collaborations with faculty on research initiatives. The program aims to foster not only linguistic and historical expertise but also cultural literacy and critical appreciation of the enduring legacy of classical civilizations.

Career Paths:

Graduates of the Classical Studies program often pursue careers in academia, publishing, cultural heritage management, education, museum work, or governmental cultural agencies. The program also provides a strong foundation for graduate studies in Classics, Ancient History, Archaeology, or related disciplines.

Overall, the Classical Studies program at the University of Waterloo equips students with a comprehensive understanding of the ancient world, critical analytical skills, and cultural awareness, preparing them for diverse professional paths and lifelong learning.

Program requirements for the Bachelor of Arts in Classical Studies at the University of Waterloo include a combination of foundational courses, specialized electives, and language studies designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of ancient civilizations, languages, and cultures. Students are generally required to complete a minimum of approximately 20 to 24 courses over the duration of their degree, which typically spans four years for full-time students. The core curriculum includes introductory courses in Greek and Latin languages, which are essential for engaging with primary texts and understanding linguistic developments of the ancient world. These language courses are often offered at multiple levels, from beginner to advanced, to accommodate students with varying prior experience.

In addition to language instruction, students must take courses in ancient history, archaeology, mythology, and literature to develop a well-rounded knowledge of classical civilizations. Elective courses allow students to explore related fields such as philosophy, art history, and anthropology, enhancing interdisciplinary understanding. For students interested in practical applications, some programs offer courses or projects related to classical reception and modern interpretations of ancient texts.

To graduate, students must typically earn a minimum grade point average as specified by the Department of Knowledge Integration and Arts at the university, often around a 60-65% minimum. There may be options to undertake honours, which include a thesis or research project under faculty supervision, providing opportunities for in-depth study and original research. Students are usually advised to consult academic advisors regularly to ensure they meet all specific course and program requirements, including compulsory courses and elective distributions. Overall, the program aims to develop language proficiency in Greek and Latin, critical analysis of ancient texts, comprehension of classical history and archaeology, and the ability to contextualize ancient cultures within broader historical and modern frameworks.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The University of Waterloo offers a diverse range of financing options for students pursuing a degree in Classical Studies. Undergraduate students can access various sources of financial support, including government-funded loans, grants, and bursaries. The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) provides eligible students with both loans and grants to help cover tuition fees and living expenses. Additionally, the university offers its own bursary programs based on financial need, academic achievement, or demographic factors. Scholarships are also available for students demonstrating excellence in their studies or contributing to the university community.

International students enrolled in the Classical Studies program can explore external scholarship opportunities from government programs, international organizations, and private foundations. While specific scholarships designated solely for Classical Studies are limited, students are encouraged to investigate general university-wide awards and external funding sources. The University of Waterloo has a comprehensive financial advising service that helps students navigate available options, prepare application materials, and meet deadlines.

Part-time employment opportunities on campus, such as research assistantships, tutoring positions, and administrative roles, can also supplement students’ income while pursuing their degree. The university’s co-op program, a distinctive feature of Waterloo’s academic experience, provides paid work terms related to students’ fields of study, enhancing both practical skills and financial stability.

Students are advised to apply early for financial aid, maintain good academic standing, and explore all available scholarships to maximize their funding. The university also offers emergency bursaries for students facing unexpected financial hardships. Overall, the combination of government assistance, university awards, work opportunities, and external funding creates a robust support system to help Classical Studies students finance their education effectively.

The Bachelor of Arts in Classical Studies at the University of Waterloo offers students a comprehensive exploration of ancient Greek and Roman civilizations, including their languages, literature, history, archaeology, philosophy, and art. This interdisciplinary program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the cultural and historical contexts of the classical world, fostering critical thinking, analytical skills, and cultural literacy. Students enrolled in this program have the opportunity to study both Latin and Greek languages, gaining proficiency that enables them to engage directly with original texts. The curriculum includes courses in classical literature, mythology, epic poetry, drama, philosophy, and historic civilizations, as well as courses in archaeology and material culture which often include hands-on experience or fieldwork. The program emphasizes the development of research skills through various projects, papers, and presentations, preparing graduates for careers in education, archaeology, museum work, public service, or further academic study. In addition, students can participate in study-abroad programs, gaining valuable firsthand experience by studying classics in Greece, Italy, or other regions rich in ancient history. The program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to combine classical studies with other disciplines such as history, art history, or philosophy to tailor their education to their interests and career goals. Faculty members are distinguished scholars with expertise in various aspects of classical studies, and students benefit from their mentorship and research opportunities. The program also encourages engagement with modern issues through the study of classical influence on contemporary culture. Graduates of the Classical Studies program at Waterloo leave equipped with a broad range of skills including language proficiency, critical analysis, and cross-cultural understanding, making them well-prepared for diverse professional paths or advanced degrees in related fields.