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Classics
If you’re fascinated by myth, the Roman Empire, or the origins of democracy, philosophy, and storytelling, our Classics program is for you! Dive into mythology, ancient civilizations, and even unique topics like geomythology and ancient drinking culture. Our flexible major pairs well with other fields, leading to careers in education, law, museums, publishing, and even video game design.
Experience hands-on learning through historical role-playing classes, creative research projects, and study abroad opportunities in Greece, Italy, and Britain. Engage with faculty from History, English, Philosophy, Theater, and even Fermentation Studies. Join the Classics Club, explore ancient texts, and bring history to life. The past is calling—where will it take you?
Bachelor of Arts Degree Requirements
The Classics Specialization can be earned by fulfilling the requirements for the Bachelor of Arts degree.
- Total Degree Requirements: 124 credit hours
- University Core Curriculum: 39 credit hours
- College of Liberal Arts Requirements: 12 credit hours
- Classics Foundational Courses: 12 credit hours
- Classics Capstone: 3 credit hours
- Other Classics courses: 15 credit hours
- General Electives: 43 credit hours
Check out the undergraduate Curricular Guide, which helps you outline what courses you would want to take each semester for all four years.
Program Overview
The Classics specialization offers an in-depth exploration of the languages, literature, history, and cultures of Ancient Greece and Rome. Combining a strong liberal arts foundation with interdisciplinary coursework, the program equips students with critical thinking and analytical skills applicable to a wide range of careers.
Designed for flexibility, the Classics major pairs well with other disciplines, allowing many students to complete a second major. Courses span multiple departments, including philosophy, history, political science, and art. Students planning to pursue graduate studies in Classics or related fields are encouraged to take extensive coursework in Latin and Greek.
Study Abroad
Studying abroad is more than just a trip—it’s an experience that can transform your perspective on history, culture, and even your future career.
Walk in the footsteps of the ancient Greeks, explore the ruins of Rome, or marvel at Egypt’s monumental architecture. We offer a variety of study abroad opportunities that bring the ancient world to life through immersive, hands-on learning.
Ancient Legacies Program
This annual program takes students and community members to Egypt, Greece, and Italy. These interdisciplinary trips emphasize hands-on activities, allowing participants to engage deeply with ancient sites and artifacts. Dr. Hahn’s research on the connections between ancient architecture and early philosophy adds a unique perspective to the experience.
Additional Study Abroad Opportunities
- College Year in Athens – A semester or year-long program exploring Greece’s ancient, medieval, and modern history.
- American School of Classical Studies at Athens – A six-week summer program offering an in-depth study of Greek history and archaeology.
- Intercollegiate Center for Classical Studies in Rome – A premier program based in Rome, providing an immersive exploration of Roman history and culture.
Take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! Visit SIU’s Study Abroad OVice tolearn more.
Why Study Classics?
Studying Classics goes far beyond Latin and Greek, it's your chance to dig into the roots of modern culture, politics, literature, and philosophy. Along the way, you'll sharpen your critical thinking, build strong analytical skills, and gain a deeper understanding of the world. A degree with a specialization in Classics shows you can tackle complex ideas and think across time, which stands out to both employers and grad schools.
Stand Out from the Crowd
Classics is a major that commands respect. Law schools, business schools, and many top employers recognize that Classics majors have strong verbal and analytical abilities, a deep understanding of history, and the ability to think critically. Your ability to decipher ancient texts, analyze complex ideas, and communicate eVectively makes you a valuable candidate in any field.
Flexibility in a Changing Job Market
The modern workforce is constantly evolving, and most people change careers multiple times. The intellectual skills gained in a Classics degree—problem-solving, logical reasoning, and persuasive communication—never become outdated. Whether you pursue law, education, writing, museum work, or even tech and business, a Classics background equips you with the adaptability to succeed.
Contact Information
Scott Collins
Interim Director
Faner Hall 3080
1000 Faner Dr
Carbondale, IL 62901
618-536-5571
sll@siu.edu
David Johnson,
Classics Section Head
Faner Hall 3129
1000 Faner Dr
Carbondale, IL 62901
618-453-5400
mjohnson@siu.edu
Pursue Your Passion
From teaching Latin to exploring the ancient world in graduate school, Classics offers unique career opportunities. It’s a degree that fuels curiosity, enhances cultural literacy, and provides a lifelong foundation for learning and discovery.
Careers
A degree in Classics opens the door to a wide range of exciting careers. With strong analytical, research, and communication skills, Classics graduates are highly valued in fields such as K-12 education, museum studies, and library sciences, where they bring history to life.
For those interested in storytelling, writing, publishing, and editing oVer opportunities to craft compelling narratives, while video game design and creative writing allow graduates to build immersive worlds inspired by ancient mythology and history.
Many Classics majors also pursue law or graduate studies in the humanities, leveraging their critical thinking and problem-solving skills for careers in academia, policy, or cultural institutions. A Classics degree prepares you for a future of endless possibilities!