Classical Studies

Take your love for Homer beyond the Simpsons

Delve into the roots of Western civilization and 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 and with work experience through co-op. Once you’ve graduated, the broad thinking demanded by the program will serve you well in a range of careers, including law, policy, culture, education, and more.

International exchanges in 25 countries

briefcase Available as a co-op and regular program

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.

Watch video on YouTube

Get tips from Waterloo students

Monthly topics include how to choose a university program, tips for a successful senior year of high school, and more.

Questions? Ask a student!

Contact an Arts student ambassador to learn about their experience.

Ask them questions such as why they chose their program, what the classes are like, and how you can get involved on campus.

First-year courses and beyond

September to December

CLAS 100 - An Introduction to Classical Studies
Arts First requirement 1*
Three additional courses

January to April

CLAS 104 - Classical Mythology and/or CLAS 105 - Introduction to Medieval Studies
Arts First requirement 2*
Two to three additional courses

*The Arts First requirement consists of two first-year courses that are capped at 25 students: ARTS 130 - Inquiry and Communication and ARTS 140 - Information and Analysis. Instead of listening to a lecture and trying to capture notes, Arts First courses will have you and your classmates working together to respond to a challenge posed by the instructor.

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 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 Bachelor of Arts degree

You can add additional areas of expertise by including one or more of the minors available to all Waterloo students. Popular choices include History and Peace and Conflict Studies.

Co-op = relevant paid work experience

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.

Sample co-op job titles

Development assistant
Technical writer
Marketing and development intern
Media relations assistant
Web design and maintenance

What can you do with a degree in Classical Studies?

Graduates typically pursue careers in education, art, writing, law, and culture working in schools, museums, libraries, and publishing companies.

Recent graduates

Systems Librarian - Wentworth Libraries
Technical Writer – Optech
Teacher – Blessed Mother Teresa S.S.
Minister – Bethesda Baptist Church

Learn about the future of careers in arts, humanities, social sciences, languages, and creative arts.

Arrow pointing up and clicking Apply via Honours Arts or Honours Arts and Business

Offered by the Faculty of Arts

Graduation cap Earn a Bachelor of Arts degree

Ready to learn more?

Visit the Department of Classical Studies website
Email Samantha Boehmer, our Arts recruitment co-ordinator, who can answer any questions about the program
Subscribe to our newsletter to get tips and advice from current students
Related programs:
- Medieval Studies
- History

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.