Classical Studies, BA: Mediterranean Archaeology
Classical Studies encompasses the civilization of the ancient Greeks and Romans from prehistory to the Middle Ages, with emphasis on the literature, philosophy, and history of the classical Greek and Roman periods. It includes economic, political, social, and intellectual history as well as philosophy, archaeology, religion, and myth. Students may choose a track that emphasizes the study of texts in Greek and/or Latin, or they may opt for a program of courses that do not require any knowledge of the ancient languages. The Classical Studies Department provides extensive training at the Undergraduate level and graduate training in both Classical Studies and Ancient History. The department also offers a special Post-Baccalaureate Program for students who wish to continue the study of Greek and Latin but do not yet meet the requirements of a conventional graduate program.
The minimum total course units for graduation in this major is 32. Double majors may entail more course units.
For more information: http://www.classics.upenn.edu/
For information about the General Education requirements, please visit the College of Arts & Sciences Curriculum page.
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| College General Education Requirements and Free Electives | ||
| Foundational Approaches + Sectors1 + Free Electives | 20 | |
| Major Requirements | ||
| Cluster 1: Core Introductory Courses | 2 | |
| Select two from the following courses | ||
| Strife: A History of the Greeks | ||
| Ancient Rome | ||
| Ancient Mediterranean Empires | ||
| Greek & Roman Mythology | ||
| Cluster 2: Introductory/Fundamentals | 4 | |
| 4 course units of Introductory/Fundamentals courses: | ||
| Introduction to Mediterranean Archaeology | ||
| Cluster 3: Advanced Courses | 6 | |
| Either 6 courses in mediterranean archaeology with the attribute ACLV or by approval of the undergraduate chair: | ||
2 at any level | ||
4 at the 3000-level or above | ||
| Or (language option) 6 courses, of which 4 must be at 3000-level or above: | ||
2 courses in an ancient language (typically GREK and/or LATN) | ||
| Total Course Units | 32 | |
- 1
You may count no more than one course toward both a Major and a Sector requirement. For Exceptions, check the Policy Statement.
Honors
Honors Thesis
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2026 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.
Sample Plan of Study
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Course Units | |
| Fall Courses | 4 | |
| Course Units | 4.00 | |
| Spring | ||
| Spring Courses | 4 | |
| Course Units | 4.00 | |
| Second Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| Fall Courses | 4 | |
| Course Units | 4.00 | |
| Spring | ||
| Spring Courses | 4 | |
| Course Units | 4.00 | |
| Third Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| Fall Courses | 4 | |
| Course Units | 4.00 | |
| Spring | ||
| Spring Courses | 4 | |
| Course Units | 4.00 | |
| Fourth Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| Fall Courses | 4 | |
| Course Units | 4.00 | |
| Spring | ||
| Spring Courses | 4 | |
| Course Units | 4.00 | |
| Total Course Units | 32.00 | |