Greek and Roman Studies
Bachelor of Arts
(Faculty of Arts)
To understand the modern world, we need to know its historical foundations and traditions. Most modern fields of thought, belief and creativity began and developed in ancient times, and the Greek and Roman studies program at the U of C gives students the opportunity to understand the ancient development that shaped the world we know today.
You’ll focus your studies on the civilizations of the Mediterranean area, the Near East and Western Europe in ancient and medieval times. You’ll study ancient political, social and economic history, classical art and literature in translation, and ancient religion, mythology, science and technology. Greek and Roman Studies majors may also learn to read ancient and medieval texts in Greek and Latin. Scholarship in this field is generally based on the writings and material remains from ancient times, giving students the opportunity to study and interpret texts in their primary forms.
As a Bachelor of Arts (BA) student in this field, you’ll have access to small classes and direct contact with instructors; this provides a more individualized learning experience and a greater opportunity for participation.
If you’d like to pursue graduate studies in Greek and Roman Studies, an Honours degree will prepare you for the rigors of graduate studies. Discover your academic and research passions as you develop a greater understanding of the program’s curriculum, including learning Greek and Latin languages.
Co-op is available for Greek and Roman Studies students. Find out more.
Admission Requirements
To be considered for admission applicants are required to present appropriate high school subjects and a competitive average.
Application/Document Deadlines
Why take this program?
More than myth
Research in Greek and Roman studies is based on textual and material remains that have survived from antiquity, some of which are only now being rediscovered. These fascinating remnants range from everyday objects and records of human living to classic masterpieces of literature and art. In evaluating this diverse and often incomplete evidence, students learn about the past as well as becoming aware of many modern Western cultural features originating in the ancient world.
When in Rome
Students in this field often learn the true value of their education when they travel or work in Western Europe, the Near East or the Mediterranean region. Indeed, overseas study and fieldwork may form part of the program itself. Several students each year receive scholarships and research grants for such projects.
A foundation to build on
Whatever your career plans, this degree gives you a broad perspective on events and problems, and develops your capacity for flexible and lateral thinking. This field has international and multicultural dimensions matching Canada’s national character and its growing involvement in global affairs and business. Studying ancient languages will enhance your grasp and appreciation of many modern European languages and give you a life-long advantage in speaking and writing English.
What will I study in my first year?
It is recommended that first-year students take both Greek and Roman Studies 205 and 209. Greek and Roman Studies 205 will provide you will an introduction to the history of Greece and Rome from the 8th century BCE until the 4th century CE, while Greek and Roman Studies 209 will provide an introduction to Greek mythology and literature.
You are encouraged to explore a variety of option courses in your first year that will complement your studies in Greek and Roman Studies. Many students take courses in second languages, and are encouraged to take courses from the faculties of Communication and Culture, Fine Arts, Science or Social Sciences. For example, you may wish to explore an interest in Astronomy or Archeology. You could also take a Computer Science course to gain computer skills that employers love seeing on students’ résumés.
What will I study in later years?
As a senior student, you will have the opportunity to study a broader range of topics from Greek and Roman art, architecture, myth and literature to Greek and Roman political and military history. You will even have the opportunity register for field- work courses, and potentially participate in a research practicum.What can I do with this degree?
The great thing about studying a field in Humanities is that you’ll graduate with a number of marketable skills including:
- Analytical thinking and reading
- Oral and written communication skills
- Editing and revision abilities
- Planning and organization skills
- A wide vocabulary and grammatical knowledge
Graduates from the Greek and Roman Studies program have a number of career options available to them in a variety of industries. Here is what some U of C grads have done with their Greek and Roman Studies degree:
- Academic Researcher
- Advertising Copy-Writer
- Cryptologist (someone who codes or decodes hidden information)
- Fundraiser
- Legal Assistant / Lawyer
- Museum Staff
- Public Relations Consultant
- Student Placement Officer
- Technical Writer
- Translator
To see a full list of potential skills, careers and industries available to you, visit the Career Services Career Profiles website (look under Greek and Roman Studies).
Additional Information
Student Finance
