Classics (PhD)

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Application deadline: January 1

Course Requirements

All students must complete four of the following seven seminars: CLAS 540 , CLAS 550 , CLAS 560 , CLAS 570 (on literature), CLAS 555 , CLAS 575 (on history), CLAS 545 (on classical reception). Students are also required to take at least five additional 500-level CLAS seminars (may include any combination of the following: CLAS 510 , CLAS 515 , CLAS 520 , CLAS 525 , CLAS 540 , CLAS 545 , CLAS 550 , CLAS 555 , CLAS 560 , CLAS 565 , CLAS 570 , CLAS 575 ), as well as three electives to be decided on in consultation with the graduate adviser. This arrangement is designed to assure competency in core areas of classical studies while allowing for the development of individual research interests and, where appropriate, course work in related fields. In addition, all students are required to enroll in the 2-unit teaching practicum (CLAS 593x ) concurrent with their first semester as a department teaching assistant.

Exams

Students are expected to complete written exams in the translation of Greek and Latin literature; in Greek and Roman history; and modern language competency exams. In addition, students take written and oral exams in major and minor fields and an oral exam on the dissertation prospectus. The field exams, prospectus, and exam on the prospectus together constitute the qualifying exam and are evaluated by a five-member committee. Students may not present themselves for the qualifying exam until all required courses and preliminary exams have been completed successfully.

Dissertation

Following the completion of the qualifying exam, the guidance committee will be reduced to three members, including one member from outside the department, who will guide and approve the dissertation.

Juries

All students make formal presentations on their research before a jury drawn from internal and external faculty twice during their graduate careers — once before taking the field exams and once while working on the dissertation.

Timetable

Required course work, written and oral exams are to be completed by the end of the third year of enrollment in the program, with the dissertation to be submitted and defended by the end of the fifth year.