Top Colleges for Classics Majors

Hey all, I'm a prospective classics major but with so many options I'm kind of lost. What are some of the best colleges for classics majors in the country? Any specific programs stand out?

Hello! I'm happy to guide you through some universities that are highly regarded for their Classics programs. Remember, "best" can mean different things for everyone depending on what you're looking for in a school, but I'll first discuss some programs that traditionally stand out academically.

1. Harvard University: Harvard's Department of the Classics is one of the most prestigious. Their program focuses on ancient history, archaeology, philology, and critical theory, attracting highly motivated and curious students.

2. Yale University: Yale's Classics department offers a great interdisciplinary approach. You can choose a path focusing on either Classical Civilization, Classical Languages and Literature, or Ancient and Medieval History.

3. Stanford University: Stanford boasts renowned faculty in the Classics, and a unique "Classical Studies" track as part of their program. This track lets students combine their study of ancient culture with another discipline.

4. Princeton University: Princeton offers strong programs in Hellenic Studies in addition to their already robust Classics major.

5. University of Pennsylvania (UPenn): UPenn's Department of Classical Studies includes many specialties: Greek and Roman literature, history, archaeology, mythology, religion, and philosophy.

6. University of Michigan: They have a particularly strong program in classics that often contains hands-on archaeological research.

Also, consider whether a Liberal Arts College like Williams College or Swarthmore College might suit you. These schools take a more intimate approach to learning, enabling you to have close relationships with your professors and truly immersing yourselves with the fundamentals of classics.

You should definitely explore each program's unique offerings, faculty, and research opportunities to see what aligns well with the kind of classics study you're interested in pursuing. Do visit their department websites and perhaps connect with current students or faculty to get a sense of what studying classics looks like at these institutions. Good luck with your college search!