Classical Studies Minor | Luther College

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Explore the worlds of ancient Greece and Rome with a classical studies minor at Luther. Expand your intellectual toolkit. Learn from the past to help tackle problems facing the future.

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Why Study Classics?

Dive deep into the languages, literatures, and cultures of the ancient Greco-Roman world. Much of modern Western culture—from law and poetry to art and religion—is influenced by these civilizations. You’ll discover just how foundational Greek and Latin are to the study of European literature and modern languages. At Luther, classics can also include the study of biblical Greek.

Why Study Classics at Luther?

Our program will prepare you for any number of fields or to pursue graduate studies. As the first degree offered at Luther, classical studies is still one of the strongest fields in a liberal arts education. You’ll explore ancient texts and archaeological ruins while becoming adept at writing code and managing databases. You’ll use the latest digital technologies to help you learn.

When you study classics at Luther, you’ll explore the complex world of ancient Greece and Rome. You’ll also tackle some of the most fundamental problems of human existence. Studying the classical world will expand your intellectual toolkit. You’ll gain unique linguistic, literary, and historical skills to address modern-day problems. In other words, you’ll learn to illuminate the past to navigate the future.

Off-Campus Studies

Visit Greece, Turkey, Italy, and the United Kingdom and learn how history shapes modern identity. During January Term, you’ll have the opportunity to study ancient civilizations, relics, and ruins while immersing yourself in bustling modern cultures.

Research with Faculty

Partner with faculty on research and work-study projects at Luther or participate in archaeological excavations run by Luther faculty in Greece or Israel.

Internships

Broaden your horizons by interning at various historical, archaeological, and anthropological institutes.

Careers and Outcomes

According to recent grad statistics, 91 percent of Luther students who graduate with a minor in classical studies are employed, volunteering, or pursuing further education within a year of graduating. The study of classics is interdisciplinary, encompassing many subjects and ideas. You’ll develop sharp reasoning, analytical, and critical thinking skills, applicable to an endless variety of careers. In addition to attending graduate school, students with a background in classics often pursue a variety of careers.

Career Fields

Teaching
Law
Archaeology
Library science
Business and finance
Medicine
Theology
Computer science
Information technology
Writing and editing

Archaeology in Israel

Earn credit while participating in archaeological excavations at Caesarea Maritima, a full-scale archaeological excavation at a Roman and Crusader-era city on the beautiful Mediterranean coast of Israel.

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