Classics Graduate Programs

Classics Graduate Programs and Curriculum

Earning a classics graduate degree can take one to seven years depending on the program. Shorter programs, such as classics master’s degrees, generally require the completion of coursework and a short thesis. Longer programs, such as classics doctoral programs, may require more in-depth coursework and a lengthy thesis or dissertation. Classics master’s degrees are conferred as a master of science or a master of philosophy, depending upon the school’s program.

Applicants to classics graduate programs should have a proficient to fluent command of at least one ancient language. Classics graduate programs also require GRE scores, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and TOEFL scores, if applicable. Specific requirements vary from program to program, so be sure to check with the admissions department at your school of interest.

Classics Career Paths

Many classics scholars research, write, and share information with the next generation of classics scholars. Those interested in securing a tenure-track job at a college or university might consider earning a Ph.D. to distinguish themselves from other classics scholars.

Individuals who earn a master’s degree in classics may find satisfying careers as librarians, historians, or archivists. Scholars seeking employment in theses careers could work in libraries, museums, or galleries and devote their time and skills to promoting and preserving, historical accounts and artifacts.

Other graduates may establish careers as journalists, correspondents, authors, or political scientists. As writers, classics scholars may use their analytical skills to assess the ways in which historical events affect modern ones, and share their conclusions through various forms of media. As political scientists, classics scholars could act as advisors, consultants, and experts, they might use their education to shape and influence public policy.

Classics Future and Job Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, post-secondary teachers earn an estimated $62,050 per year; journalists and correspondents earn an estimated $36,000 per year; librarians earn an estimated $54,500 per year; historians earn an estimated $53,520 per year; political scientists earn an estimated $107,420 per year; and archivists earn an estimated $45,200 per year

Some careers mentioned above have slow rates of growth relative to the national average. The BLS reports the fields of post-secondary education and journalism and correspondence are predicted to decline by 6% between 2010 and 2020. Job prospects for librarians, archivists, and historians, however, are predicted to increase by 7, 12, and 18 percent respectively. Job growth for political scientists is predicted to grow at a rate of 8%, slightly lower than the national average.

Depending on their chosen fields, classics scholars earn a variety of salaries. The chart below outlines average salaries for the professions mentioned above.

Data according to

http://www.bls.gov/ooh/Education-Training-and-Library/Postsecondary-teachers.htm

http://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/historians.htm

http://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/political-scientists.htm

http://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/archivists.htm

http://www.bls.gov/ooh/Media-and-Communication/Reporters-correspondents-and-broadcast-news-analysts.htm

http://www.bls.gov/ooh/Education-Training-and-Library/Librarians.htm