Brandeis University

What you'll study

The programme emphasises advanced competence in ancient Greek and Latin, close reading of primary texts, and the linguistic and philological tools used to analyse classical languages and literatures. Core work typically includes advanced language seminars in Greek and Latin, courses in textual criticism and palaeography, and modules in historical and comparative linguistics (including Indo-European studies).

• Advanced syntax and morphology of Greek and Latin
• Reading seminars in prose and poetry across periods (e.g. Homeric epic, Greek tragedy, Latin elegy, Augustan prose)
• Philology, textual criticism and manuscript studies
• Historical linguistics and Indo‑European comparative methods
• Classical reception and interpretive theory
• Optional electives tying classics to neighbouring fields such as ancient history, archaeology, Near Eastern studies, or digital humanities

The degree may be structured around a combination of coursework, language examinations, and a capstone project or master’s thesis, allowing students to pursue specialised research under faculty supervision. Small seminars and directed readings form a significant element of instruction, enabling sustained engagement with original texts in the original languages.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an undergraduate degree with substantial preparation in classics, ancient languages, linguistics, or a closely related field. Typical supporting materials include:

• Academic transcripts demonstrating relevant coursework
• Letters of recommendation from academic referees
• A statement of purpose detailing research interests and preparation in classical languages
• Samples of written work or a translation sample when requested
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English

Some applicants with strong backgrounds in linguistics, comparative philology, or modern language study may be considered, but most successful candidates will have prior coursework in Greek and/or Latin. Specific programme requirements and any standardised test policies are available from the department and graduate admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MA programme pursue a range of careers that value advanced language skills, critical reading, and research expertise. Common paths include:

• Continuation to PhD study in classics, linguistics or related humanities fields
• Teaching at secondary or post‑secondary level (with appropriate credentials)
• Work in museums, libraries, archives, or cultural heritage institutions
• Publishing, editing, and scholarly translation
• Research and policy roles requiring strong textual analysis and foreign language competence
• Digital humanities projects involving text encoding, corpus work, or computational philology

Why study at Brandeis University

Brandeis offers a small, research-active classics community with close faculty mentoring and frequent opportunities for one-to-one work on texts and research projects. The university’s strengths in linguistics and neighbouring disciplines create rich interdisciplinary options—students can combine classical language training with courses in historical linguistics, Near Eastern studies, or digital methods. Brandeis also provides access to substantial library holdings and to collaborative initiatives across the humanities that support archival work, palaeography and public engagement. The programme’s emphasis on original-language reading skills and methodological training prepares students both for further academic study and for professions that require rigorous analytical and language abilities.