A brief description of the department:
The Department of Classics offers integrated programs in the literatures and cultures of ancient Greece and Rome. Our aim is to bring together the study of literature, myth, philosophy, history, and material culture in the attempt to understand the world of classical antiquity as a whole. We train students in the philological, historical, and archaeological tools necessary to gain access to texts and evidence separated a far remove from our own times.
Particular strengths or unique areas of interest for the department: Literature, political thought, philosophy, religion, science
Average number of new graduate students per year: 3 PhD students a yearFor “best consideration for admission”, applicants should have (note that there are always special cases, and that meeting the stated numerical goals will not guarantee admission to any program):
We have no guidelines for GRE or GPA. Obviously, the higher the better. We expect students to have as a minimum the equivalent of an undergraduate Classics major.
Approximate percentage of incoming students given full funding: 100%
Number of guaranteed years of funding: 5 years guaranteed PhD, with possibilities of funding for the 6th and 7th years.
No funding for MA’s.
Out of those years, number student will be expected or required to serve as TA, RA, or the like: As of this admissions year, students will receive 3 years of stipend and will be expected to do 2 years of teaching.
PhDs and MAs awarded since January 2004: 3 PhD; 1 MA
Major changes anticipated in the department over the next few years, if any:
We hope to make a hire in Greek history this year. Our archaeology program has been on hold, but with Joan Connelly joining us as a joint appointment, we are now looking at accommodating archaeology students again. We expect the opening of the Institute for the Study of the Ancient World this year will provide opportunities for study in the history and archaeology of classical antiquity that are not currently available.