Classics studies the ancient civilizations of Greece and Rome from the Minoan and Mycenaean ages to the fall of the Roman Empire in the West. Intellectually and artistically the period from Homer (700 BCE) to St Augustine (354-430 CE), in particular, represents one of the most creative eras in human history. Courses in Classics allow students to explore the full range of the ancient Graeco-Roman tradition by examining the history, social mores, literature, philosophy, religion, architecture, and archaeology of the different periods of ancient Greek and Roman culture. Knowledge of Latin or Greek is not a prerequisite for CLAS courses, so students can study this material in translation or in the original languages. Greek and Latin courses are listed under their respective subjects in the Course Catalogue section of the Calendar.

Classical, Medieval and Renaissance Studies is an interdisciplinary program involving Classics and other disciplines. See the appropriate section of the Calendar for details of these programs.