Ph.D. in Classics

Thank you for your interest in the Ph.D. in Classics. The program has been placed on hiatus and will not be accepting applications at this time.

The study of the Greco-Roman classics offers a rich perspective on western literature, art and architecture, philosophy, and the history of religious thought and practice. By pursuing your Ph.D. studies with us, you’ll join a vibrant community that’s as passionate about classics as you are, and with all of the resources that New York City has to offer.

Integral to our doctoral program is a deep understanding of the history and practice of new and creative research in the field. We also emphasize intensive pedagogical training, and most doctoral students will have the opportunity to teach both language classes and topical courses on the classics in translation (e.g. history, literature, film, and reception studies). The combination of research and teaching skills you acquire will put you in the position to succeed at all academic levels. These skills are also readily transferable beyond the academy, as there is a long tradition of our Classics Ph.D.s thriving in many fields and careers. In fact, thanks to a prestigious grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities, Fordham Classics is at the forefront of a movement to cultivate a new “Living Humanities” Ph.D. model.

Program Highlights

  • Choose between two degree options: a Ph.D. in classical philology or a Ph.D. in medieval Latin
  • Shared student, faculty, and scholarly resources with New York University and the City University of New York
  • Opportunity to work with the Paideiea Institute’s Living Greek and Latin programs and outreach programs in NYC and beyond
  • Access to the Fordham Museum of Greek, Etruscan and Roman Art, a collection that features more than 260 antiquities dating from the 10th century B.C. to the 6th century A.D.
  • Option to complete a doctoral certificate in medieval studies through our renowned Center for Medieval Studies 
  • Study abroad at the American Academy in Rome, the American School for Classical Studies at Athens, the Paideia Institute’s Greek and Latin language tours, and other approved programs

Program Basics

  • Full funding available
  • Curriculum requires 20 courses (10 for students with a master’s degree) for a total of 60 credits, with at least four courses on Greek authors
  • Demonstrated competency in German and a second modern language
  • Comprehensive exam and dissertation required
  • Pedagogical training that includes workshops and classroom observations

Careers

Graduates have gone on to teaching and research positions at:

  • Institute for the Study of the Ancient World (NYU)
  • Ohio Wesleyan University
  • University of Vermont
  • Sacred Heart University (Connecticut)
  • Seton Hall University
  • University of St. Thomas (Texas)

For more information about careers beyond the academy, visit the Paideia Institute’s Legion Project.