Bachelor of Arts in Classics

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Classics is the investigation of the life and cultural expressions of the ancient Greek and Roman worlds. Today, Rutgers finds itself in the forefront of some of the most vital areas of inquiry: constructions of ethnicity, sexuality, and freedom; performance of music, drama, and poetry; democracy, tyranny, and resistance to inequality; the social dimensions of law; academic and popular philosophy; and the culture of athletics.

In addition, we have developed an ambitious digital teaching initiative that leverages our unusually rich archive of archaeological images (some dating back to the late 1920s) and world-class collection of Republican Roman coins.The greek word euporia means wealth or abundance, often visualized as a harvest cornucopia. In addition to taking courses with our core faculty and those in affiliated departments, a consortium allows our graduate students to take courses at Princeton, Columbia, and other universities in the New York metropolitan area.

The Classics program at Rutgers University-Camden offers an intellectually enriching exploration of ancient civilizations, their languages, cultures, and histories. Students enrolled in this program have the opportunity to study Latin and Greek languages, gaining proficiency that allows them to read original texts of classical authors such as Homer, Herodotus, Cicero, and Sophocles. Through linguistic training, students develop critical thinking and analytical skills that are highly valuable across various disciplines.

The curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the civilizations of Ancient Greece and Rome. Courses cover a wide range of topics, including Greek and Roman art, archaeology, philosophy, politics, and literature. Students also explore the social structures, historical developments, and everyday life of these ancient societies, fostering a deep appreciation of their influence on Western culture and beyond.

In addition to language studies, students engage with interdisciplinary courses that examine classical mythology, ancient religion, and the enduring legacy of antiquity in modern times. The program encourages critical analysis of primary sources and promotes research skills essential for academic success. Students are often given opportunities to participate in archaeological fieldwork and study abroad programs, further immersing themselves in the ancient world.

Graduates of the Classics program are well-prepared for careers in education, archaeology, museum work, cultural heritage management, and other fields that benefit from a strong foundation in classical studies. The program also serves as an excellent preparation for graduate studies in fields such as history, comparative literature, and classical studies. By combining language proficiency with cultural and historical insight, the Classics program at Rutgers-Camden aims to cultivate informed, culturally aware individuals equipped for diverse professional paths.

Major Requirements:
Students pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Classics at Rutgers University-Camden must complete a total of 30 credits in the discipline, including foundational and advanced courses. The core curriculum typically includes introductory courses such as CLAS 101: Introduction to Classical Civilizations, which covers the history, literature, and culture of Ancient Greece and Rome. Building upon this foundation, students are required to take intermediate courses like CLAS 201: Greek Mythology and CLAS 202: Roman Civilization, which deepen understanding of ancient societies. Advanced coursework involves at least two seminars or specialized topics courses, such as CLAS 301: Greek Tragedy or CLAS 302: Latin Literature. In addition, students are expected to develop proficiency in at least one ancient language, typically Latin or Ancient Greek, through language courses such as LATN 101 and 102 or GREE 101 and 102, fulfilling language requirement for graduation.
Electives:
Beyond the core courses, students are encouraged to select electives from a broad range of topics including ancient philosophy, archaeology, art history, and classical reception studies. Courses such as CLAS 250: Roman Art and Archaeology or CLAS 260: Greek Philosophy may be included in the elective requirements. To achieve the 30-credit minimum, students may choose to take courses cross-listed with related disciplines, with approval from faculty advisors.
Capstone/Research:
Some degree tracks may require or recommend participation in a senior seminar or independent research project, such as CLAS 400: Senior Seminar, which emphasizes research skills and critical analysis of classical texts or archaeological findings.
Language Proficiency Requirement:
Proficiency in Latin or Greek is expected for advanced understanding and examination of original texts. Students typically demonstrate proficiency either through completion of coursework or standardized testing.
Total Credit Hour Requirement:
The Classical Studies major requires completion of at least 30 credit hours, which must include core courses, language courses, electives, and possibly a capstone project, depending on the specific track or specialization.
Additional Information:
Students are advised to consult with their academic advisor to tailor their coursework towards specific interests, such as classical archaeology, ancient history, or classical languages. Internships and study abroad programs focusing on archaeology or classical studies may also be recommended to enhance practical experience and cultural understanding.

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.

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Financing options for the Classics program at Rutgers University-Camden are designed to support students throughout their academic journey and help them manage the costs associated with their education. Prospective and current students can explore a variety of financial aid opportunities, including federal and state grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and institutional aid specific to Rutgers University-Camden. Federal financial aid is available through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which students are encouraged to complete annually to determine their eligibility for grants such as the Federal Pell Grant and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG). These funds aim to reduce the financial burden on students pursuing Classics, making the degree more accessible.

In addition to federal aid, Rutgers University-Camden offers institutional scholarships based on merit, need, or a combination of both. These scholarships are competitive and require an application process that may include academic transcripts, essays, and recommendations. The university also provides specific scholarships for students enrolled in the College of Arts and Sciences, which hosts the Classics program, thereby offering targeted financial support for students interested in the discipline.

Work-study programs are another important component of the financing package, allowing students to work part-time on campus to earn money that can contribute toward tuition and other expenses. Students interested in employment opportunities should consult the university’s career services and financial aid offices for available positions and application procedures.

Rutgers University-Camden also promotes payment plans that allow families and students to spread out tuition payments over multiple installments, easing the immediate financial burden. Additionally, students are encouraged to seek private scholarships or external funding from community organizations, foundations, and cultural heritage groups that support classical studies or promote education in the liberal arts.

Financial planning resources, including counseling and workshops, are available to help students understand their financial options and develop budgets that align with their educational goals. International students and out-of-state students are also advised to explore specific scholarships and financial aid programs tailored to their status, as well as any additional requirements or documentation needed.

Overall, financing a Classics education at Rutgers University-Camden involves a combination of federal aid, institutional scholarships, work opportunities, and payment options, all designed to make studying Classics attainable and affordable for a diverse student body. Students are encouraged to begin their financial planning early and utilize university resources to maximize their financial aid awards and minimize educational expenses.

The Classics program at Rutgers University-Camden offers students a comprehensive exploration of the ancient civilizations of Greece and Rome, emphasizing the development of language, literature, history, philosophy, and culture. The program aims to provide students with a deep understanding of the foundational aspects of Western civilization through the study of classical languages such as Latin and Greek, enabling them to read original texts and engage directly with primary sources. Students in the Classics program have access to experienced faculty who are experts in their fields, offering instruction that combines rigorous language training with cultural and historical context. The curriculum typically includes courses in Latin and Greek language and literature, courses on ancient history, mythology, art, archaeology, and philosophy, allowing students to develop a well-rounded understanding of the classical world.

Rutgers-Camden's Classics program encourages critical thinking, analytical skills, and cultural literacy, preparing students for careers in education, archaeology, museum work, law, and other fields that benefit from strong interpretive and research skills. The program often promotes experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, archaeological fieldwork, and participation in classical studies events and collaborations. Students may also have the chance to engage in study abroad programs focused on Greece and Italy, immersing themselves in the environments where classical civilization flourished to deepen their appreciation and understanding of the material culture and history.

Graduate opportunities include pursuing advanced degrees in Classics, Ancient History, or related disciplines, as well as applying classical knowledge in interdisciplinary research, museum curation, or classical languages instruction. The program at Rutgers-Camden is designed for students interested in the ancient world, classical language mastery, and the cultural heritage that has significantly shaped Western civilization. Besides academic pursuits, students are encouraged to participate in seminars, colloquia, and scholarly conferences to enhance their research skills and professional networks. Overall, Rutgers’ Classics program strives to cultivate a deeper appreciation of the ancient world while developing skills applicable in diverse careers that require a classical foundation.