Best Preparation for Graduate Classics

College Majors
1

<p>Hi,</p>

<p>I am an undergraduate student at a top Canadian university, majoring in Latin and Greek. I have a few questions regarding preparation for Classics graduate programs.</p>

<p>I'm hoping to study abroad in university and have heard about the Intercollegiate Center for Classical Studies. How useful/helpful is this program in forging contacts and solidifying knowledge about Classics? Can anyone shed some insight about ICSS?</p>

<p>I understand that modern languages are much needed for graduate programs. I only started Latin and Greek during university so I don't want to overwhelm myself with learning too many languages at once. What other language should I learn in combination with Latin and Greek that would be helpful for graduate admissions (I'm thinking about doing a Masters degree first before doing a PhD)?</p>

<p>Lastly, what are some good extracurricular activities that graduate programs will look favourably upon? Archaeological digs? Writing a thesis during fourth year? </p>

<p>Thanks!</p>

2

<p>French and German are needed for any quality classic program from what I hear. Knowing Italian also would be good.</p>

3

<p>

ICCS is the best option for classics in Italy and has a long history of very strong academics. The program is fairly small (~30-40 students), which leads to a lot of personal attention. </p>

<p>If you’re more interested in Greek than Latin, check out [College</a> Year in Athens](<a href=“http://www.cyathens.org/welcome]College”>http://www.cyathens.org/welcome).</p>

<p>

For a MA, you’ll need either French or German; I recommend German. For a PhD, you’ll need both. </p>

<p>You’ll need 4 years of your primary language and 3 of your secondary for ancient history or philology; archaeology programs generally accept students with 3 + 2. I recommend at least 2 years of both Greek and Latin for MA programs.</p>

<p>

A field school is essential for a prospective classical archaeologist. It’s less important for other subfields, but it would only help your application. A thesis shows that you can handle research, and it makes a good writing sample. Getting involved with some research one of your professors is doing would be good experience as well. </p>

<p>If you decide to write a thesis, consider presenting it at a conference. The Classical Association of the Canadian West is pretty undergraduate friendly.</p>