Classical Civilization (AB)

Program Code: U-CLST-AB
Degree Designation: Bachelor of Arts
Department: Classical Studies Department
Website: classicalstudies.duke.edu/undergraduate/majors/classical-civilization

Program Summary

Courses in the Department of Classical Studies offer the chance to bring to life the past of ancient Greece and Rome, through exploration of their languages, literature, history, philosophy, art, material culture, and more. The department offers courses in Latin, Greek, and classical studies; two majors (classical languages and classical civilization); and four minors (Greek, Latin, classical civilizations, and classical archaeology). This rich field of study invites serious engagement with the complexity of the past and evaluation of its place in the present. In grappling with the classical pasts, students develop the tools and habits for thinking critically across space, time, culture, and disciplinary boundaries.

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Academic Requirements

At least 10 units total to complete the major. At least 34 units total to earn a degree.

• Required Courses (2 units)

  • CLST 181S, or CLST 201S, or CLST 283

  • CLST 182S, or CLST 202, or CLST 284

  • Students may satisfy this requirement with 2 courses in GREEK or LATIN believe the 250-level

• Electives (7 units)

  • Any 7 classical studies courses 200-level and above

  • Must include a course in at least 3 of the following areas:

    • Art and archaeology

    • History

    • Literature (in translation: 200-level and above; in the original language: 250-level and above)

    • Philosophy

• Capstone (1 unit)

  • CLST 480S

• Senior Dossier

Double majors in classical languages and classical civilization may count no more than two courses toward both majors.

Departmental Graduation with Distinction

Graduation with Distinction is available to majors. Eligible students must have a 3.5 grade point average in the major (3.3 overall) at the beginning of their project and must maintain these through completion. In the context of a research independent study (CLST/GREEK/LATIN 493) the candidate writes a major research paper. A committee of three faculty members votes whether to award Distinction, High Distinction, or Highest Distinction for the work. Majors interested in applying shall consult the director of undergraduate studies by the spring of their junior year.