BA in Classics (Barnard) in New York United States | Columbia University

The Classics and Ancient Studies department seeks to familiarize students with ancient Greek and Roman languages while fostering insight into their literature and culture within the wider Mediterranean framework. It also examines how Greco-Roman antiquity has been interpreted—both constructively and problematically—throughout history. Language study unlocks access to influential ancient texts, artifacts, and ideas while clarifying the grammatical structures of English and other modern languages. Engaging with these materials cultivates analytical and critical thinking about historical and contemporary issues, the ability to evaluate incomplete evidence, and proficiency in writing, textual analysis, oral communication, cultural sensitivity, and literary appreciation. Through collaboration between Barnard and Columbia, students can design interdisciplinary explorations of antiquity encompassing language, literature, mythology, history, religion, philosophy, law, political theory, comparative literature, medieval studies, gender studies, art history, and material culture. Greco-Roman texts and monuments formed the foundation of Western education until modern times and continue to hold significance in global humanities and social thought. The program's primary objective is to investigate, interpret, and evaluate this enduring legacy.