Translate to Understand

Through the Classical Languages major, you learn Greek and Latin by reading texts in their original languages. You gain insight into the literature, culture, and history of ancient Greece and Rome and their continued impacts into modernity.

Research From the Start

Students contribute to projects in the Roman World Lab and participate in archaeological fieldwork on the island of Cyprus. 

Mentorship That Shapes Your Work

Small classes and close faculty relationships support advanced study, including Honors Thesis research. 

Read texts in the original

Study ancient Greek and Latin by working directly with foundational works of literature and history.

It’s a good fit for you if you:

  • See language as a gateway to understanding people, cultures, and ideas.
  • Enjoy asking thoughtful questions and exploring complex texts from different perspectives.
  • Want a liberal arts education that prepares you to think critically, communicate effectively, and lead with insight.

Classical Languages (B.A.)

Courses focus on reading Greek and Latin texts in their original languages while also exploring the literature, culture, and history of ancient Greece and Rome. Through close textual analysis, discussion, and research, students connect language to broader cultural and historical questions.

In-Demand Skills:

Cultivate the language, analytical, and research skills valued in graduate study and a wide range of professions.

  • Translate and interpret complex source material
  • Identify evidence and communicate analyses through writing and discussion
  • Conduct literary and historical research
  • Evaluate ideas across cultures and time periods

Comprehensive Curriculum

Students complete 30 credit hours in Greek and Latin alongside classes in classical literature, culture, and history.

View major requirements in the course catalog

Detailed course requirements, sequencing, and policies are outlined in the official Courses of Study Bulletin. 

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 Classical Studies major prepares students for impactful careers across industries, graduate programs, and research fields. Graduates combine strong analytical skills, interdisciplinary thinking, and real-world experience to pursue meaningful work. 

Graduate Study and Scholarship

Graduates pursue advanced study in classics, archaeology, history, philosophy, and related fields at leading universities, building on their experience with original texts and research.


Education and Teaching

Some graduates teach Latin and related subjects, bringing classical languages and literature into secondary education classrooms.

Law, Medicine, and Public Service

Students go on to professional programs in law, medicine, and public health, applying their training in analysis, argumentation, and interpretation.
 

Writing, Business, and Cultural Fields

Graduates pursue careers as writers, consultants, and professionals in fields such as publishing, museum work, politics, and business, where strong communication and critical thinking are essential.

Two people pose and smile in front of the Colosseum in Rome on a sunny day, surrounded by crowds of tourists. The man wears a blue cap and sunglasses, and the young woman carries a light blue backpack, with the ancient amphitheater's iconic arched facade visible behind them.

Get Your Questions Answered

Students interested in the Classical Languages major should:

Meet with any faculty member of the Classical Studies department to learn more about the program requirements and opportunities, including study abroad options. Meet with an academic advisor to see how the major fits your academic plan.

Department of Classical Studies

Carlos Alvarez School of Arts and Humanities

Location

Ewing Halsell Center

Phone

Fax

Emails

Chair

Nicolle Hirschfeld, Ph.D.