Why Study Ancient Mediterranean Studies?

Explore the languages, literature, and art of ancient Greece and Rome; the archaeology and history of Mediterranean cultures; and the traditions and receptions of Classical ideas throughout world history, into the present.

Close Mentorship and Undergraduate Research

Students work closely with faculty in small classes. They engage in research with faculty, including in the Roman World lab, theatrical productions, and on an archaeological excavation on Cyprus.
 

Experiential Learning With Real-World Connection

Students can excavate on Cyprus or elsewhere in the Mediterranean, study abroad in Italy or Greece, or present their research at professional conferences.

An Interdisciplinary Field That Pairs Broadly

Ancient Mediterranean Studies connects naturally with humanities, sciences, and professional interests, making it a strong fit for students who want depth in one area and range across others.

It’s a good fit for you if you:

  • Are fascinated by the cultures, histories, and languages of the ancient Mediterranean world.
  • Enjoy exploring topics such as archaeology, mythology, religion, philosophy, and classical literature.
  • Like thinking about how ancient Greece and Rome have influenced later cultures, including our own.
  • Are interested in interdisciplinary learning that combines history, languages, literature, cultural studies, and scientific approaches.
  • Want to develop strong skills in critical thinking, research, writing, and the analysis of historical sources and texts.

Ancient Mediterranean Studies pairs well with:

  • History
  • Philosophy
  • Greek or Latin
  • Religion
  • Political Science
  • Art History
  • English or Creative Writing
  • Museum Studies
     

Ancient Mediterranean Studies B.A.

The major in Ancient Mediterranean Studies introduces students to the ancient Greek and Roman worlds through a broad range of approaches. Students also learn about the impact of Greece and Rome on other times and places, including our own, while also developing skills in research, analysis, interpretation, and communication.

In-Demand Skills

You’ll gain skills in:

  • Interpreting written documents and material records
  • Synthesizing evidence across disciplines
  • Research and analytical thinking

Interdisciplinary Curriculum:

Majors complete 30 credit hours drawn from a wide-ranging array of courses for the purpose of examining the ancient Mediterranean world from multiple perspectives.

View Ancient Mediterranean Studies B.A. requirements

Ancient Mediterranean Studies Minor

 18 Credit Hours  |  1.5 to 2 semesters of coursework

The Ancient Mediterranean Studies minor introduces students to the ancient Greek and Roman worlds and the many disciplinary approaches available for increasing our understanding of their histories and cultures. A minor in Ancient Mediterranean Studies enriches majors or minors in other fields of the humanities, the sciences, and professional programs.

Ancient Mediterranean Studies is a minor in ancient culture and does not require a language, although language courses do count toward this degree.

View minor requirements in the course catalog

Meet Your Faculty Mentors

Learn from dedicated scholars whose expertise in Greek, Latin, ancient history, literature, and classical culture helps students engage deeply with the ancient world in its original languages.

Recent Graduate Careers

A Trinity Ancient Mediterranean Studies major or minor prepares students to analyze texts, material culture, and historical evidence across disciplines. Through the study of the ancient Greek and Roman worlds and their lasting influence, students develop strong skills in research, interpretation, and communication that support careers in both academic and professional fields.

Archaeology, Museums, and Cultural Heritage

Students gain experience working with material culture and historical artifacts, preparing them for careers in archaeology, museums, and cultural institutions. Opportunities such as museum partnerships, research labs, and field-based learning support work in preservation, curation, and public history. 
 

Graduate Study and Academic Research

Many students pursue advanced study in classics, archaeology, history, philosophy, and related disciplines. Graduates have continued to lead institutions such as Princeton, UC Berkeley, UCLA, and the University of Chicago, building on their interdisciplinary research and scholarship training.

Law, Medicine, and Professional Fields

The program builds strong analytical reasoning, close reading, and evidence-based argumentation, which support careers in law, medicine, public health, and related professional paths. Students learn to evaluate complex information and communicate effectively in high-stakes environments.
 

Writing, Business, and Cross-Sector Careers

Graduates apply their skills in analysis, synthesis, and communication across a wide range of careers, including business, publishing, education, and consulting. Their ability to interpret complex information and connect ideas across fields supports success in many professional settings.

In a classroom with brick walls, bookshelves, and a large conference table, an Trinity University instructor stands beside a digital display showing a map of Europe and the Mediterranean region. She gestures toward a location on the map while leading a discussion.

Get Your Questions Answered

Students interested in the Ancient Mediterranean Studies major or minor should:

Meet with an academic adviser or any faculty member of the department of Classical Studies to explore introductory courses in the Latin language or the Classical Studies program, and review degree requirements in the course catalog.

Department of Classical Studies

Carlos Alvarez School of Arts and Humanities

Location

Ewing Halsell Center

Phone

Fax

Emails

Chair

Nicolle Hirschfeld, Ph.D.