<p>OP, I should have added that even though I gave a rough ranking for the California depts, and, earlier for the depts at Midwestern schools, you could get a good education in classics at any of the schools I listed. Where one potential advantage of higher ranked schools comes into play is in letters of recommendation should you decide to pursue graduate study in classics.</p>
<p>OP, in your earlier posts, you indicated that financial aid would be an issue for you. If that is the case, I’m not sure why you are only considering California schools. Illinois, and some of the less expensive public universities, like Minnesota, as well as schools like St. Olaf that offer merit aid, should be on your list.</p>