Master's Degree in Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
This master's degree explores ancient languages, literatures, and linguistics, preparing students for careers in education, research, and cultural heritage.
About
The Master's Degree in Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics is designed for students interested in deepening their knowledge of ancient Greek and Latin languages and cultures. It suits those who enjoy literature, history, and linguistics and want to study classical texts in their original form. This degree allows learners to develop advanced skills in language analysis, textual interpretation, and cultural understanding.
- The program typically lasts one to two years and corresponds to a master's level qualification in the US education system.
- It is aimed at students who have completed an undergraduate degree, often in related fields like literature, history, or languages.
- Graduates can pursue careers in teaching, research, museums, or cultural institutions.
- The degree also strengthens skills useful for publishing, translation, and archival work.
- It offers a foundation for those considering doctoral studies in classical studies or related humanities fields.
What you study
The curriculum covers a range of subjects focused on ancient languages and their cultural contexts, combining theory and practical analysis. Students progressively build expertise through coursework and research projects.
- Core classes include ancient Greek and Latin language studies, focusing on grammar, syntax, and vocabulary.
- Students study classical literature, analyzing texts from authors like Homer, Virgil, and Sophocles.
- Linguistics courses explore the structure and history of classical languages and their influence on modern languages.
- Seminars encourage critical thinking through discussion of historical, philosophical, and literary themes.
- Research methods and textual criticism form an important part of the training, with opportunities for independent projects.
- While mostly academic, some programs include practical work like manuscript study or digital humanities tools.
How to get in
Admission to this master's degree requires a relevant bachelor's degree and a formal application process typical in the US higher education system. Candidates must demonstrate academic readiness and interest in classical studies.
- Applicants usually hold a bachelor's degree in classics, humanities, or related fields.
- They submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose explaining their motivation.
- Some programs may require proof of language proficiency or prior coursework in ancient languages.
- Admission committees look for strong academic records and clear interest in classical languages and cultures.
- Standardized tests like the GRE may be requested, depending on the institution.
Day to day
The academic year involves a mix of lectures, seminars, and personal study, with an emphasis on reading and analyzing classical texts. Students balance coursework with research activities.
- Weekly schedules include language classes to practice translation and comprehension.
- Seminars foster discussion on literary and historical topics, encouraging critical thinking.
- Students often work on research papers or projects related to specific authors or linguistic issues.
- Some programs offer opportunities for internships in museums or libraries, though this is not always mandatory.
- Time management is important as students prepare for exams and complete assignments.
Careers this degree leads to
Graduates find opportunities in various sectors where knowledge of classical languages and cultures is valued. The degree supports roles involving research, education, and cultural preservation.
- Many pursue careers as high school or college teachers specializing in classical studies or languages.
- Positions in museums, archives, and libraries may involve managing collections or educational programs.
- Some work in publishing or translation, especially of classical texts.
- Research roles in universities or cultural institutions are common, often requiring further study.
- The job market can be competitive, but the degree provides strong analytical and language skills valued in humanities-related fields.
Continuing your studies
After completing this master's degree, students can continue their academic journey or shift towards professional training. The degree opens doors to advanced research or complementary fields.
- Many choose to pursue a PhD in Classics or related humanities disciplines.
- Others may enter specialized programs in education to become certified teachers.
- Some explore fields like archaeology or museum studies through additional qualifications.
- The degree also supports transitions to careers in cultural heritage management or library science.
Where to study this degree (67)
Liste des 67 établissements
- Villanova UniversityVillanova
- St. John's CollegeSanta Fe
- University of ArizonaTucson
- Yale UniversityNew Haven
- University of Colorado BoulderBoulder
- Brandeis UniversityWaltham
- Columbia UniversityNew York
- University of Michigan-Ann ArborAnn Arbor
- Cornell UniversityIthaca
- University of Wisconsin–MadisonMadison
- Washington University in St LouisSaint Louis
- University of GeorgiaAthens
- University of KentuckyLexington
- University of Massachusetts-AmherstAmherst
- Indiana University BloomingtonBloomington
- University of CincinnatiCincinnati
- New York UniversityNew York
- University of ChicagoChicago
- University of KansasLawrence
- Princeton UniversityPrinceton
- University of Southern CaliforniaLos Angeles
- Florida State UniversityTallahassee
- Kent State University at KentKent
- University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel Hill
- Rutgers University-New BrunswickNew Brunswick
- University of Maryland-College ParkCollege Park
- Bryn Mawr CollegeBryn Mawr
- The University of Texas at AustinAustin
- University of Notre DameNotre Dame
- University of Missouri-ColumbiaColumbia
- University of Washington-Seattle CampusSeattle
- University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphia
- University of California-BerkeleyBerkeley
- Tulane UniversityNew Orleans
- University of Massachusetts BostonBoston
- University of Illinois Urbana-ChampaignUrbana
- Harvard UniversityCambridge
- Catholic University of AmericaWashington
- University at BuffaloBuffalo
- University of VermontBurlington
- University of Virginia-Main CampusCharlottesville
- University of DallasIrving
- University of California-Los AngelesLos Angeles
- University of FloridaGainesville
- University of California-Santa BarbaraSanta Barbara
- CUNY Graduate School and University CenterNew York
- University of IowaIowa City
- Fordham UniversityBronx
- Ohio State University-Main CampusColumbus
- Stanford UniversityStanford
- Boston CollegeBoston
- Houston Christian UniversityHouston
- Tufts UniversityMedford
- San Francisco State UniversitySan Francisco
- Duke UniversityDurham
- Wayne State UniversityDetroit
- Brown UniversityProvidence
- University of OregonEugene
- University at AlbanyAlbany
- University of Minnesota-Twin CitiesMinneapolis
- Loyola University ChicagoChicago
- University of California-IrvineIrvine
- Northwestern UniversityEvanston
- Johns Hopkins UniversityBaltimore
- Marshall UniversityHuntington
- Wesleyan UniversityMiddletown
- University of California, RiversideRiverside
Frequently asked questions
What prior knowledge is needed to apply?
Applicants should have a bachelor's degree in a related field and some background in ancient languages or humanities. Basic understanding of Latin or Greek is often expected.
Is this degree more theoretical or practical?
The program is mainly academic, focusing on language study and literary analysis, but some practical work like manuscript study or internships may be included.
Can I work while studying this master's?
Many students balance part-time work with their studies, but the program requires significant reading and research, so time management is important.
Does this degree lead directly to teaching jobs?
It prepares students for teaching at higher education levels, but additional certification may be needed for secondary school teaching.
Are there opportunities for research during the program?
Yes, students often engage in research projects and write papers on classical texts or linguistic topics as part of their coursework.
Is knowledge of modern languages important?
While the focus is on ancient languages, knowledge of modern languages can help with research and accessing secondary literature.
Can I continue to a PhD after this master's?
Yes, this degree is a common step before pursuing doctoral studies in classics or related humanities fields.
Are internships required in this program?
Internships are not always mandatory but may be offered to gain experience in museums, libraries, or cultural organizations.
























