Classical Studies

Classical Studies Program

Are you drawn to the epic tales of gods and heroes, and intrigued by the enduring mysteries of ancient civilizations? The IU School of Liberal Arts offers a dynamic, interdisciplinary minor in Classical Studies where you’ll have the opportunity to delve into the enduring cultural legacy of Greece, Rome, and their contemporaries, whose ideas and institutions continue to shape Western thought, politics, and art.

Whether you're majoring in STEM, business, health sciences, or the arts, a minor in classical studies will complement your academic path to help you:

  • Strengthen critical thinking and analytical reasoning
  • Improve communication and evidence-based argumentation
  • Understand cultural dynamics and historical influence on modern systems

You’ll learn to connect ancient Mediterranean societies to today’s world in ways that are both eye-opening and relevant. Discover how to ask thoughtful questions about the past—what we know, what’s still uncertain, and why it matters. You’ll also look at how ancient civilizations still influence today’s culture and identity, seeing both the lasting contributions and the parts that deserve a closer look.

You’ll build career-ready skills by learning to analyze complex texts, interpret evidence, and communicate with clarity. These abilities are critical for success in fields like law, medicine, education, and beyond.

You’ll also be ready for careers in museum curation, archival research, journalism, publishing, public policy, and international relations, where cultural insight and critical thinking give you a distinct advantage.

More information

For questions, contact the Classical Studies program director, Dr. Elizabeth Thill.

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Undergraduate minors

IU School of Liberal Arts students are not required to complete a minor, but it can be a way to pursue a secondary interest. Any IU Indy student is invited to earn a minor in the IU School of Liberal Arts.

Minor in Classical Studies

Requirements

Read the requirements in the academic bulletin for IU School of Liberal Arts students. Choose the bulletin year corresponding to your first term. 

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