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BA in Greek and Latin Studies

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Engage the past to navigate the present

What is Greek and Latin Studies?

Greek and Latin studies is a major built around mastery of one classical language, Greek or Latin, strong secondary knowledge in the second, and broader study of the ancient Mediterranean world’s literature, archaeology, philosophy, and culture. You read legendary texts in their original language, trace the pathway of ideas from antiquity to modernity, and connect with that world through artifacts, inscriptions, artworks, and architecture.

Why study Greek and Latin Studies?

Choosing this major means gaining precision of thought, versatility of expression, and global-cultural fluency. You’ll develop analytical skills, as you parse ancient grammar and rhetoric, and cultural insight, as you understand how classical legacies shape language, politics, art, and identity today. These are foundational tools for careers in law, education, publishing, museum work, government, or international service.

Why study Greek and Latin Studies at Beloit College?

At Beloit College, you’ll benefit from small classes, personalized mentorship, and active engagement in a program that includes reading epic poetry, examining artifacts, and conducting field-inspired research. The Greek, Latin and ancient Mediterranean studies department encourages immersive study, through language learning, critical cultural study, and opportunities to participate in archaeological or museum-based work.

Details

Degree Level

Undergraduate

Degrees

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Specialization

Major

Credits Required

12 units (48 semester hours)

Format

In-person

Related Departments & Schools

Greek, Latin, & Ancient Mediterranean Studies

Related Offerings

Greek and Latin Studies curriculum

Greek and Latin studies at Beloit College offers a balance of language acquisition, cultural inquiry, and interdisciplinary research. From foundational grammar to advanced literature and archaeology, you’ll build a thoughtful, deep understanding of the classical world and its enduring impact.

Greek and Latin Studies Major (12 Units)

Courses with asterisks (*) apply only if topic is appropriate. Consult with a Greek, Latin, and Ancient Mediterranean Studies advisor for approval.

Ten departmental units:
1. Six courses in either Greek or Latin.
2. Two courses in the other classical language.
3. Two courses selected from the following: Greek, Latin, and Ancient Mediterranean Studies 100, 200, 201, 205, 206, 207, 215.
Supporting courses (2 units):
1. Two courses chosen in consultation with the advisor. Especially recommended are: Anthropology 110; Art History 150* and 210; Greek, Latin, and Ancient Mediterranean Studies 202/History 221 and Greek, Latin, and Ancient Mediterranean Studies 204/History 222; Philosophy 200 and 350; Political Science 280; appropriate upper-level courses in other literatures.

Majors are strongly encouraged to participate in overseas study.

Students engage with Greek and Roman texts, ideas, and material culture, learning to analyze language, interpret stories and philosophies, and connect ancient worlds to contemporary questions.

[GLAM 100] Classical Mythology: From the wrath of Achilles to the Golden Bough, this class examines how ancient civilizations used mythology to make sense of their world. Students develop skills in literary and contextual analysis while investigating the intellectual traditions of myth and its role in intercultural exchange.
[GLAM 204] Roman Civilization: Ancient Rome produced great works of literature, art, and architecture, and was the model for the American Republic. Yet its people enjoyed the blood sports of the arena and engaged in the ruthless conquest and subjugation of much of the Mediterranean world. This course explores the history and culture of a seemingly contradictory civilization, from its origins as an Etruscan kingdom through the rise of the Republic and its transition into Empire.
[GLAM 215] Ancient Medicine: This course addresses various aspects of Greco-Roman medical systems. Students engage with large selections of the Hippocratic Corpus, Aristotle, Soranus, and Galen; and shorter selections of other relevant authors (e.g., Pliny the Elder). Throughout, students are asked to use the Greeks and Romans as a way to interrogate contemporary medical epistemology: what do we “know” about the body, disease, and treatment, and how do we know it? How do we define “health?” What socio-cultural assumptions do we make about the nature of illness and people who suffer with illness?

Greek and Latin Studies outcomes

Graduates with a Greek and Latin Studies major are equipped to think critically, communicate precisely, engage globally, and operate creatively in diverse professional fields.

Students completing the Bachelor of Arts in Greek and Latin studies can:

Read, analyze, and interpret classical texts in original language and translation.
Understand and explain how ancient Mediterranean cultures shaped modern language, thought, and institutions.
Apply their skills in writing, translation, analogy, and cultural analysis across varied contexts.
Conduct research using classical and archaeological sources, and communicate findings clearly.
Work across disciplines, language, history, archaeology, philosophy.
Adapt their insights to contemporary challenges.

Communications & Media: Share information through writing, outreach, and storytelling in print, online, or broadcast media. ($45,000 → $100,000+)
Cultural Resource Management: Evaluate, document, and preserve sites and materials in compliance with preservation laws. ($45,000 → $80,000+)
Editing & Manuscript Development: Review written work, suggest improvements, and help prepare materials for publication. ($40,000 → $80,000+)
Education & Academia: Teach, advise, and research within schools, colleges, or universities in specialized disciplines. ($35,000 → $90,000+)
Museum & Heritage Curation: Curate, interpret, and preserve artifacts, art, and documents for public learning. ($45,000 → $80,000+)
Public History & Heritage Preservation: Document, interpret, and share historical materials through programs, exhibits, digital projects, or public engagement. ($40,000 → $80,000+)
Publishing: Develop, edit, and produce educational or cultural content for print and digital audiences. ($40,000 → $80,000+)
Translation & Interpretation: Convert spoken or written information between languages to support communication and understanding. ($40,000 → $80,000+)

Reviewed on November 2025. Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary figures shown here are estimates. Actual pay will vary by position, industry, location, education, and experience. Some pathways and positions may require additional education or certifications. For more detailed information, please explore reputable career and salary resources.

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