New York University

Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Classics and Art History at New York University offers an in-depth exploration of ancient literature, history, and visual culture. This interdisciplinary program combines rigorous coursework with research-focused seminars, allowing students to develop critical skills in textual analysis, art-historical methods, and archival investigation.

What you'll study

The curriculum integrates foundational humanities courses with specialized classes in classics and art history. Students engage in a blend of required and elective modules, with opportunities to participate in advanced seminars and a capstone research project.

Typical course areas include:

• Texts and Ideas: Close reading of primary sources and interpretive frameworks
• Cultures and Contexts: Historical and cultural analysis of the ancient Mediterranean
• Societies and the Social Sciences: Connections between classical evidence and social/historical questions
• Ancient Art and Visual Culture: Analysis of artworks, iconography, and material evidence
• Classical Archaeology and Material Studies: Understanding how artefacts and sites inform historical perspectives
• Architecture and Built Environments: Study of form, function, and historical development
• Language-focused options: Opportunities to study Latin and/or Ancient Greek, depending on the student’s track

Research and advanced study

• Seminars that emphasize argumentation, evidence-based analysis, and scholarly methods
• Opportunities for independent or guided research projects utilizing library and archival resources

Entry requirements

Standardized test scores are optional for applicants. A Self Reported Academic Record (SRAR) must be submitted after applying, and additional records of any college-level coursework may be requested if not included in the high school transcript.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Classics and Art History program can pursue diverse career paths in areas such as education, museum curation, art conservation, cultural heritage management, and academia. The analytical and research skills developed throughout the program are highly valued across many professional fields.