Take your love for Homer beyond the Simpsons.
Delve into the roots of Western civilization. In Classical Studies, you'll gain a deep understanding of ancient Greece and Rome — cultures that continue to shape our thinking and our society today.
Discover the enduring ideas of greats like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle. Master enough ancient Greek and Latin to study classic texts in their original language. Explore the many facets of antiquity: from history, religion, and philosophy to art, science, and technology.
Meanwhile, you’ll have lots of room to round out your education with courses from other departments or faculties.
Once you’ve graduated, the broad thinking demanded by Classical Studies will serve you well in a range of careers, including law, policy, culture, education, and more.
Study overseas
The Acropolis is calling! Take advantage of study-abroad opportunities in the Mediterranean, or do an internship with the Canadian Institute in Greece.
Enjoy great discussions
Do more than just take notes. In our small classes, you’ll have lots of opportunity for debate and discussion.
About the Classical Studies program
Available as a 
Apply via Honours Arts or Honours Arts and Business
Earn a Bachelor of Arts in Classical Studies
International exchanges in 25 countries
Offered by the Faculty of Arts
Available as a major and minor
Admissions
- Apply to Honours Arts or Honours Arts and Business and choose Classical Studies as your major at the end of first year.
First-year classical studies courses
September to December
CLAS 100 - An Introduction to Classical Studies
Arts First requirement 1*
3 additional courses
January to April
CLAS 104 - Classical Mythology
and/or
CLAS 105 - Introduction to Medieval Studies
Arts First requirement 2*
2-3 additional courses
After first year
40% of the classes you’ll take will be Classical Studies courses. With your remaining classes, you can choose electives from many of the 100 subject areas at Waterloo or fulfil additional requirements for your chosen entry program.
Sample upper-year classical studies courses
CLAS 220 – Philosophy of Friendship
CLAS 325 – Greek and Roman Religion
CLAS 327 – Astrology and Magic
CLAS 384 – Science and Technology of Ancient Greece and Rome
Customize your Bachelors of Arts in Classical Studies degree
You can also add additional areas of interest and expertise by including a minor (or minors) as part of your degree.
Gain relevant work experience through co-op
By alternating school terms and paid co-op work terms throughout your degree, you can explore new career areas and types of employers as your career interests evolve. Co-op is available to students studying Classical Studies through Honours Arts and Business.
Careers in classical studies
Recent graduates
- Actor & President, Ludwig International Enterprises
- Development Officer, National Ballet of Canada
- Software Development Manager, Wescom Solutions Inc.
- Senior Project Manager, TELUS Corporation
- Director, Sales & Marketing, Cumulus One Corp.
- Teacher, Chignecto-Central Regional School Board
Helpful links
- Email Sam Wiebe, our Arts recruitment co-ordinator, who can answer any questions about Classical Studies
- Visit the Classical Studies website
- Related programs: Medieval Studies, History
