Classics Certificate Program

Applicants who want graduate school preparation in classics should follow the structured curriculum designed with the Department of Classics to meet the needs of college graduates who began their study of Greek and Latin late in their academic career. Those who choose the field of classical languages, literature, and history should have an aptitude for language study and a passion for the ancient world.

The Classics Certificate Program's curriculum is designed to improve the linguistic skills necessary for graduate study in classics and classical studies. It also prepares students for doctoral programs in ancient history, art history, philosophy, religion, and medieval studies. The classics courses at Columbia are challenging and, because the classes are relatively small, students receive individual attention by some of the world's preeminent scholars of the ancient world.

Students should complete the required courses in two terms of full-time study, beginning in the fall.

Students who complete the curriculum with a grade of B or better in all courses will receive a Classics certificate.

Students who completed postbaccalaureate study of classics at Columbia have been accepted into graduate programs at institutions such as Cambridge, Oxford, Berkeley, Brown, Boston University, Rutgers, University of Chicago, University of Texas at Austin, and Columbia.

Curriculum

The Classics Certificate Program includes:

  • Language Courses
    Six to eight courses in Latin and ancient Greek, including one or both of the following:
    • GREK V3320. Intensive Reading Course.
    • LATN V3320. Intensive Reading Course.
  • Elective Courses
    At least two additional courses, which may include any other course in the Classics listing , or courses in related areas as approved by the departmental adviser. Many students take courses in subjects such as ancient history, philosophy, art, religion, classical civilization, or translation.

In addition to coursework, most students take advantage of the other resources available to them, including ongoing colloquia, special lectures from visiting scholars, museum events, and research resources.

Advising

Students in the program are advised by the Office of Student Affairs and by the faculty adviser. The structured support system offers guidance on course options, professional and M.A. and Ph.D. programs.

A one-week orientation during the last week in August (fall term only), provides students with an overview of what a career in classics and classical studies entails and offers an opportunity to meet the faculty, staff, and other students in the department. Diagnostic exams determine the level of Greek or Latin courses students should enroll in.

Admissions
203 Lewisohn Hall
212-854-9666

Academic Adviser to Enrolled Students
Tom Harford
203 Lewisohn Hall
212-854-0419
th2207@columbia.edu

Adviser to Enrolled Students
Gerry Visco
617 Hamilton Hall
gwv1@columbia.edu

Admission

To apply to the classics certificate program, follow the Postbaccalaureate Studies Program application instructions. Note: Applicants to the classics certificate program must submit two letters of recommendation.

Applications received before the deadline will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Applicants to the classics certificate program have earlier application deadlines.