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The Department provides PhD programs in ancient history, Byzantine Greek studies, classical archaeology, classical philology, classical philosophy, medieval Latin, and modern Greek. Our scholars and graduate researchers employ cutting-edge methods to explore the ancient Greek and Roman civilizations, incorporating interdisciplinary approaches from archaeology and art history, ancient science, comparative literature, digital humanities, linguistic history, rhetorical traditions, literary criticism, classical language instruction, philosophy, manuscript studies, classical influence, and performance analysis. We view Byzantine, medieval Latin, and modern Greek studies as essential extensions of classical antiquity research. Furthermore, our affiliated faculty specialize in early Christian studies and Second Temple Judaism, Greek legal systems and comparative law theory, Renaissance classical reception, and Byzantine historiography. The department provides expert instruction in specialized fields including papyrology, epigraphic studies, paleography, and numismatics. Students may access resources across Harvard University for studying additional ancient languages, comparative theories, science history, intercultural relations in antiquity, and the enduring legacy of classical culture.
Entering students are expected to have competence in both Greek and Latin sufficient to take courses numbered above 100 in one of these languages (the "major language"), and above the beginning level of the other (the "minor language"). In exceptional circumstances and with the approval of the director of graduate studies, substitution of another ancient language in the place of the minor language may be arranged.
Applicants must receive a minimum score of 80 for the TOEFL, and it is not common for applicants to be admitted with TOEFL scores below 90. The minimum IELTS Academic score is 6.5. Some programs may require higher scores. Application Deadline: January 5.