Postbaccalaureate Classics Program

Intensive study for admission to doctoral programs in Classics.

The Postbaccalaureate Classics Program is a two-term (September-May) course of intensive study designed for students who want to become fully admissible to distinguished doctoral programs in classics.

The program meets the particular needs of students who:

• began the study of Greek and Latin at a late stage in their academic development, and lack the linguistic skills necessary to begin a graduate program in classics at the level traditionally expected

or

• have changed fields late in their undergraduate careers or even after graduation

The Postbaccalaureate Classics Program is limited to 12 students each year, in order to ensure individual advising, supervision, and help in placement.

Fall Term

During the fall term, students hone their linguistic skills in Greek and Latin, taking language courses appropriate to their level of competence.

Spring Term

During the spring term, students broaden their preparation for serious graduate-level study of classics:

1. two intensive reading courses, one each in Greek and Latin
   (These courses are specifically devoted to the program and not open to other students. The intensive reading courses are taught by regular department faculty, supplemented with reading groups conducted by a teaching assistant.)

2. two or more additional courses, which may include other coursework in Greek and Latin or courses in related areas

Program Requirements

Admission to the program requires:

1. at least two years’ study of one ancient language (or equivalent)

2. at least one year's study of another ancient language (or equivalent)

Successful completion of the program requires:

• completion of a minimum of eight courses with at least a B average

Students who complete the program will receive a certificate attesting to their achievement. Transcripts will be issued for all students showing the specific courses taken.

Columbia is committed to a high degree of individual attention in this program, including assistance with applications to M.A. and Ph.D. programs.

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