Fordham's Classics program has been ranked among those of leading institutions in overall ratings of undergraduate Classics curricula (The Gourman Report: A Rating of Undergraduate Programs in American and International Universities, National Educational Standards, 1996, p. 43). The Department of Classics teaches courses in the Greek and Latin languages on both the Rose Hill and Lincoln Center campuses, as well as courses pertaining to the culture of ancient Greece and Rome. Two areas of major or minor concentration are offered: classical languages and classical civilization.

A classical languages major (ten courses) involves the study of Greek, Latin, or both languages and literatures.  Students take four courses in Greek or Latin above the 2001 level.  The remaining courses may be in Greek, Latin, or courses in English on classical civilization.  A classical civilization major (ten courses) may include, but does not require, Greek or Latin; it consists of courses in English on ancient history, literature, art and archaeology, and philosophy or religion.  A minor in either classical languages or classical civilization consists of six courses.

The Department participates actively in the Fordham College Core Curriculum. Classes in Latin or Greek fulfill the Fordham College foreign language requirement. The BA requirement may be fulfilled by completing language courses in Greek or Latin to the 2001 level (GC*U 2001 or LA*U 2001). Students wishing to begin or renew their study of Latin or Greek at Fordham follow the regular four-semester sequence of LA*U or GC*U 1001, 1002, 1501, and 2001. Students with sufficient previous language training may be placed directly into the intermediate course (LA*U or GC*U 1501) or literature-level course (LA*U or GC*U 2001).

HS*U 1200-Introduction to Ancient History is a sophomore core area history course. Core area courses are taken by all students during freshman and sophomore years and must be completed by the end of sophomore year.

Courses in classical mythology, drama, and law are offered at the core enrichment level. CL*U 1210, CL*U 1240, and CL*U 1250 are core curriculum literature courses. All students take at least one literature and communications and one social awareness core enrichment course during junior or senior year.

Fordham University is a contributing member of the Intercollegiate Center for Classical Studies in Rome.  Students are encouraged to apply to that program and also to take advantage of other approved study-abroad programs.