Welcome to the Ancient Studies Department at UMBC
Focusing on the study of the cultures of Ancient Greece and Rome, Ancient Studies provides a rigorous, interdisciplinary education that spans 3,500 years of human history and continues to be relevant in the present. In addition to courses in Greek and Latin language that form the foundation of the discipline, the department offers an array of fascinating courses in the myth and literature, archaeology and history, politics, society, and cultures of the Ancient world. Ancient Studies professors are passionate about their subjects and love teaching them; they are easy to engage in conversation and make time for their students. Their professional expertise ranges from the Bronze Age to the Byzantine Period and all points in between.
The hallmark of Ancient Studies at UMBC is an unparalleled student experience. The department offers numerous opportunities for students to study and travel abroad, to do internships, and to take part in archaeological fieldwork. Each spring, Ancient Studies professors lead a study tour that enables students to experience firsthand the landscapes, artifacts, monuments, and works of art they have studied in classes. At UMBC, Ancient studies majors have unique prospects for conducting research. Are you curious about ancient music? Have a replica ancient instrument built and learn to play it. Do you love ancient vase painting? Visit European museums and study them privately. Are you interested in the principles of ancient science and technology? Develop a research project in these fields. Whatever vision you have for your education, the Ancient Studies department can help you realize it.
Ancient Studies provides an education in the humanities that opens doors to a variety of rewarding careers. Majors are prepared for graduate study in Ancient Greek and Roman archaeology, literature, and history; they are known for their excellent performance on exams such as the GRE, LSAT, and MCAT. Ancient Studies majors have the highest rate of acceptance to medical and law school of any major. And fifteen years out from the BA, they earn more on average than any other Humanities major (and more, you may be surprised to learn, than Accounting majors). Developing an in-depth knowledge of the roots of the English language and of the structure of language, honing their critical reasoning and writing skills, mastering large amounts of data, and routinely crossing disciplinary boundaries, Ancient Studies majors are equipped to excel in all fields that require research, analytical thinking, and effective oral and written communication. An Ancient Studies major lays the foundation for a lifetime of learning and opens up a world of opportunities for personal growth and professional advancement.
For more information about the value of a major in Ancient Studies, see the articles on the major in the Princeton Review, Psychology Today, and the The Chronicle of Higher Education. A fuller treatment of the major and its usefulness after graduation can be found on the website of the Society for Classical Studies.