Classical Studies
Source: https://admissions.purdue.edu/majors/classical-studies/ Parent: https://admissions.purdue.edu/majors/political-science/
Home / Academics / Majors / Classical Studies
Classical Studies
Through the study of language, literature, philosophy and art, you’ll build timeless skills in critical thinking, writing and analysis — preparing for careers in law, education, museums and beyond.
Jump to:
Choose a link:
Jump to:
Careers
Connect
Transfer
Program Summary
Explore interrelated disciplines and develop an understanding of the ancient Greeks and Romans, classical philosophy, art, archaeology and mythology. Classical studies includes some of the best in literary genres, such as the first European epics: Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey. To offer this broad kind of understanding, a well-rounded program in classical studies teaches you not only the literature and linguistics of the ancients, but their history, philosophy, art and archaeology. You’ll graduate as a well-informed citizen who thinks critically with a global understanding.
Explore Plan of Study
Plan of Study Options
Classical Studies, BA (Classical Languages Track)
Classical Studies, BA (Literature & Culture Track)
Classical Studies, BA (Material Culture & History Track)
Classical Studies: World Languages Teaching Concentration, BA
Quick Facts
- Degree: Bachelor of Arts
- Location(s): West Lafayette
-
College/School: Liberal Arts
Why Purdue?
73.4%
Of Liberal Arts students complete an internship
Purdue Center for Career Opportunities, 2024
Top 10
Public University That Employers Love
Forbes, 2025
Applying
Understanding Undergraduate Degree Paths
The College of Liberal Arts offers multiple paths in select majors to accelerate degree completion and provide opportunities to earn multiple degrees simultaneously so you can make the most of your educational experience.
Degree in 3
Degree in 3 provides an accelerated pathway to complete your Liberal Arts degree in just three years — saving time and tuition. With focused planning and year-round support, you’ll be ready to start your career or pursue graduate school ahead of schedule, without missing out on the full Purdue experience.
Degree Plus
Earn two degrees in four years with Purdue’s Degree Plus program — combine Liberal Arts with STEM, business or any other major, all without extra time or tuition. Stand out with a multidimensional education that sets you apart.
Possible Careers
Our students prepare for careers in a wide range of fields where creativity, critical thinking, communication and a deep understanding of the human experience are highly valued including:
- Art program director
- Attorney
- Community outreach coordinator
- Journalist
- Market research analyst
- Museum and archive curator
- Writer/publisher
**High School Course Recommendations****
You should pursue the most rigorous high school curriculum available to you. Succeeding in challenging courses will make you a stronger candidate for Purdue’s competitive admission process and better prepare you for college success.
Minimum high school coursework (many applicants exceed these minimums):
- Math – 4 years
- English – 4 years
- Lab science – 3 years
- Social studies – 3 years
- World language – 2 years
Connect
College of Liberal Arts
Join a community of thinkers, doers and communicators. Explore our programs grounded in theory and driven by real-world impact.
Contact
Undergraduate Student Recruitment Office\ (765) 494-6291\ newstudent@purdue.edu
Visit
Experience for yourself all that Purdue has to offer with opportunities to explore in-person or virtually.
Apply
Ready to take the next step? Apply to begin your journey at Purdue in the classical studies program.
**Transfer to**** Classical Studies
Purdue admits to individual majors. Transfer students must meet Purdue’s overall transfer criteria, as well as any major-specific requirements. Before you apply, check the closed programs page to confirm this major is open to transfer students. If it is, refer to the information below for major-specific transfer criteria.
-
Minimum 2.5 GPA
Related Majors
[African American Studies
Explore history, culture and justice as you learn about Black literature, politics, music and social movements while gaining the skills to lead, advocate and inspire change. Program Summary African American studies provides focus on the experience of African Americans and...
Learn More](https://admissions.purdue.edu/majors/african-american-studies/)
[American Studies
Uncover the stories, struggles and big ideas that shaped the U.S. while you explore culture, politics, race, gender and more — past and present. Build skills to think critically, communicate clearly and make an impact in whatever path you choose....
Learn More](https://admissions.purdue.edu/majors/american-studies/)
[Anthropology
Your curiosity about people, cultures and what makes us human drives you. Explore everything from ancient civilizations to today’s global challenges. Dig into big questions, learn to think across cultures and gain skills that open doors to careers around the...
Learn More](https://admissions.purdue.edu/majors/anthropology/)
[Artificial Intelligence (Liberal Arts)
Explore how humans and artificial intelligence (AI) interact, what it means to live in a digital society and how fairness plays a role in emerging technology. Shape the future of AI — from ethics to marketing — no coding required....
Learn More](https://admissions.purdue.edu/majors/artificial-intelligence/)
[Asian Studies
Explore the many dimensions of Asia — from politics and religion to pop culture and global trade. Develop skills in language, research and international awareness to prepare for exciting careers with a global impact. Program Summary Dive into the rich...
Learn More](https://admissions.purdue.edu/majors/asian-studies/)
[Chinese Studies
Explore China’s rich history, politics and pop culture, while gaining global skills that set you apart. Whether you’re interested in business, diplomacy or travel, this major opens doors around the world. Program Summary Immerse yourself in the language, stories and...
Learn More](https://admissions.purdue.edu/majors/chinese-studies/)
[Cognitive Science
Uncover how the mind works and the brain makes meaning. In this interdisciplinary major, you study thought, behavior, language, and technology—gaining insights that connect science and society while developing skills to think critically and solve complex problems. Available on the...
Learn More](https://admissions.purdue.edu/majors/cognitive-science/)
[Communication
Dive into the power of words, images and media to influence, inspire and inform — while building strong communication skills and exploring how media shapes culture and public perception. Program Summary As a communication major at Purdue, learn how to...
Learn More](https://admissions.purdue.edu/majors/communication/)
[Comparative Literature
Comparative literature highlights global stories, big ideas and deep thinking. Explore literature, film and culture from around the world while sharpening your writing, analytical and language skills. Program Summary As a student in comparative literature, explore world literature not just...
Learn More](https://admissions.purdue.edu/majors/comparative-literature/)
prevnext