Master of Arts in Classical Studies
Classical Studies is a discipline that studies the entire range of human experience attached to the ancient Greek and Roman cultures. As such, to study and understand these peoples is to understand the foundational civilizations of the West and thus be aware of our own cultural origins.
Our MA program offers a unique approach to graduate research of the ancient world. Students build a broad foundation for the interdisciplinary study of ancient cultures surrounding the Mediterranean basin, while developing the linguistic, analytic and communication skills necessary for future academic or non-academic careers.
Interdisciplinary and Inter-University Strength
The Master of Arts in Classical Studies draws upon the strengths associated with this discipline in the Waterloo region. Our program not only includes adjunct faculty in a number of disciplines associated with Classical Studies at the University of Waterloo, but also faculty from Wilfrid Laurier University and the University of Guelph. We also draw on the expertise from the university’s Waterloo Institute for Hellenistic Studies, creating a core interest in this area. As such, our students receive substantial individual attention from an expert in their area of interest.
Program of Study
The Master of Arts in Classical Studies is a 16-month program fulfilled through course-work, a modern language exam and either a Major Research Paper or a Thesis. Courses emphasize research techniques as well as ensuring a sound knowledge of primary sources. All students take one research methods course and one ancient Greek and Latin course, as well as either three other courses and a Major Research Paper, or one other course and a Thesis. A diagnostic ancient language exam (in Greek and Latin) is given at the beginning of the program to ensure that students are placed in appropriate level language courses.