The master’s degree in classics is intended for students who wish to advance their understanding of ancient Mediterranean languages, literatures, and cultures. Although it is primarily intended for students who wish to teach classics—Greek, Latin, mythology, Mediterranean archaeology, ancient philosophy, and classical literature—at the high school level or continue on to a PhD program, many students bring their advanced education to such careers as law, counseling, publishing, library science, grant writing, nonprofit organizations, and university administration.

Learning Outcomes

Students are expected to demonstrate:

• understanding of advanced Greek and Latin vocabulary and grammar;
• broad knowledge of ancient Greek and Latin literature;
• comprehension of ancient Mediterranean states, geography, and history;
• synthesis of the interplay between economics and trade, politics, warfare, class, race, ethnicity, gender, and rhetoric; and
• application of ancient concepts to modern problems.

The Master of Arts program in classics requires a minimum of 30 s.h. in courses numbered 3000 or above. Students may count a maximum of 12 s.h. earned in courses numbered 3000–4999 toward the degree. They must maintain a cumulative grade-point average of at least 3.00 to earn the degree.

Students must pass a sight examination in the language(s) studied and an examination on literature and history.

Courses taken to complete the Postbaccalaureate Certificate in Classics do not count toward the degree.

Applicants must meet the admission requirements of the Graduate College; see the Manual of Rules and Regulations on the Graduate College website.

Sample Plan of Study

Sample plans represent one way to complete a program of study. Actual course selection and sequence will vary and should be discussed with an academic advisor. For additional sample plans, see MyUI.

Classics, MA

a

Students must complete specific requirements in the University of Iowa Graduate College after program admission. Refer to the Graduate College website and the Manual of Rules and Regulations for more information.

b

This requirement may be satisfied by examination. A sight-reading examination in both languages must be taken before the final written comprehensive examination.

c

Choose from CLSG or CLSL courses numbered 6011-6014, or CLSA:6100.

d

Written comprehensive examination on Greek and Latin (Roman) history and literature.