Classics

Classics: Introduction

Faculty Affiliation

Arts and Science

Degree Programs

Classics

MA

  • Fields:
    • Ancient History and Material Culture;
    • Greek and Roman Literature and Culture

PhD

  • Fields:
    • Ancient History and Material Culture;
    • Ancient Philosophy;
    • Greek and Roman Literature and Culture

Collaborative Specializations

The following collaborative specializations are available to students in participating degree programs as listed below:

Overview

The Department of Classics provides advanced training in the fields of Ancient Philosophy; Greek and Roman History and Material Culture; and Greek and Roman Literature. Note that the field names for the MA and PhD will change for the 2024-25 academic year. This calendar entry includes both information on the current Classics MA and PhD requirements as well as the requirements that will be in effect for the 2024-25 academic year.

Collaborative specializations, listed above, are available to students enrolled in the specified participating degree programs.

Information about admission, application procedures, and funding is available from the department.

Contact and Address

Web: classics.utoronto.ca
Email: grad.classics@utoronto.ca
Telephone: (416) 978-5513
Fax: (416) 978-7307

Department of Classics
University of Toronto
125 Queen's Park
Toronto, Ontario M5S 2C7
Canada

Classics: Graduate Faculty

Full Members

Akrigg, Ben - BA, PhD
Barney, Rachel - BA, PhD
Bendlin, Andreas - PhD
Bernard, Seth - BA, PhD (Graduate Coordinator, Associate Chair)
Blouin, Katherine - BA, MA, PhD, PhD
Boys-Stones, George - MA, MA, DPhil, LittD (Chair and Graduate Chair)
Bruun, Christer - BA, MA, PhD
Burgess, Jonathan - BA, MA, PhD
Chrubasik, Boris - MA, PhD
Dewar, Michael - BA, MA, DPhil
Gunderson, Erik - BA, MA, PhD
Keith, Alison - BA, MA, PhD, FRSC
Lytle, Ephraim - BA, PhD
Magee, John - BA, MA, PhD
Murray, Sarah - PhD
Revermann, Martin - PhD
Welsh, Jarrett - BA, MA, PhD
Wilkinson, Kevin - MA, PhD
Wohl, Victoria - BA, MA, PhD

Members Emeriti

Barnes, Timothy - BA, MA, DPhil, FRSC
Beck, Roger - BA, MA, PhD
Grant, John - BA, MA, PhD
Irwin, Marjorie - BA, PhD, PhD
McDonough, Christopher - BA, MA, PhD
Rist, John - MA
Traill, John - BA, MA, PhD

Associate Members

Atkins, Carrie - BA, MA, PhD
King, Peter - BA, PhD
Yu, Kenneth - PhD

Classics: Classics MA

The Department of Classics offers a diverse program of graduate studies leading to the Masters of Arts (MA) degree. With one of the largest graduate faculty in North America, the department offers a combination of rigorous training and engagement with a range of diverse and innovative methodologies. The program offers the opportunity to pursue study in several fields of specialization within the broad ambit of Classical Studies. Visit the departmental website for descriptions of specific fields. The department also connects students to the rich resources that the University of Toronto has to offer graduate research, including Robarts Research Library, with digital and print holdings unrivalled in Canada and representing one of the finest collections for Classical Studies in North America.

Classics: Classics MA; Field: Ancient History and Material Culture

Applicants may be admitted to either the two-year MA program or the one-year advanced-standing option, depending on their level of preparation. At the time of application, students are encouraged to indicate their preference for one of the two fields offered: 1) Ancient History and Material Culture or 2) Greek and Roman Literature and Culture. The MA program may be taken on a part-time basis.

MA Program (Two-Year)

Minimum Admission Requirements

  • Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Classics' additional admission requirements stated below.

  • Successful completion of an appropriate bachelor's program in classics or a related field, with at least a B+ average in the final year.

  • The equivalent of three years of training in either Greek or Latin and demonstrated excellence in the study of Greek and Roman history and material culture is recommended.

  • Students who are otherwise qualified but who lack the required amount of training in Greek and Latin or in ancient history and material culture should consult with the department about further preparation.

Completion Requirements

The two-year MA program consists of 6.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) selected in consultation with the Graduate Coordinator, which includes a 1.0 FCE Graduate Research Paper (CLA2000Y), and completion of the sight translation examination. Students normally complete 3.0 FCEs in Year 1 and 3.0 FCEs in Year 2.

  • Coursework. Students must successfully complete a total of 6.0 FCEs as follows:

    • CLA2000Y Graduate Research Paper completed by May of Year 2 with a minimum grade of B. Progress is assessed at the end of the Fall session with an interim pass/fail mark. Each student is assigned to a faculty advisor for CLA2000Y and works independently on the preparation of a research paper (about 8,000 words long). The Graduate Research Paper is assessed by a committee of two faculty members, including the advisor.

    • CLA3020Y Ancient History Methods Course.

    • The remaining 4.0 FCEs are electives selected in consultation with the Graduate Coordinator as follows:

      • 0.5 FCE selected from GRK1000H or LAT1000H, or one or more CLA1300-series courses may be recommended for students with less language preparation. Placement in Greek and Latin courses is based upon an ungraded diagnostic exam taken upon entry.

      • 3.5 FCEs selected from the CLA1300-level series, CLA5000-level series, GRK/LAT1000, the GRK/LAT1800-level series, MAC1000H, or MAC2000H. Students may take courses from outside the department with the Graduate Coordinator's approval.

    • Students may, but are not required to, take the methodology courses outside their field.

  • Sight translation examination. Completion in either Greek or Latin with a minimum grade of B–.

Mode of Delivery: In person
Program Length: 6 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: FWS-FWS); 9 sessions part-time
Time Limit: 3 years full-time; 6 years part-time

 

MA Program (One-Year Advanced-Standing Option)

Minimum Admission Requirements

  • Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Classics' additional admission requirements stated below.

  • Successful completion of an appropriate bachelor's program in classics or a related field, with at least a B+ average in the final year.

  • The equivalent of three years of training in either Greek or Latin and demonstrated excellence in the study of Greek and Roman history and material culture is recommended.

  • Students who are otherwise qualified but who lack the required amount of training in Greek and Latin or in ancient history and material culture should consult with the department about further preparation.

Completion Requirements

The one-year MA program consists of 4.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) selected in consultation with the Graduate Coordinator, which includes a 1.0 FCE Graduate Research Paper (CLA2000Y), and completion of the sight translation examination.

  • Coursework. Students must successfully complete a total of 4.0 FCEs as follows:

    • CLA2000Y Graduate Research Paper completed by May with a minimum grade of B. Progress is assessed at the end of the Fall session with an interim pass/fail mark. Each student is assigned to a faculty advisor for CLA2000Y and works independently on the preparation of a research paper (about 8,000 words long). The Graduate Research Paper is assessed by a committee of two faculty members, including the advisor.

    • CLA3020Y Ancient History Methods Course.

    • The remaining 2.0 FCEs are electives selected in consultation with the Graduate Coordinator as follows:

      • 0.5 FCE selected from GRK1000H or LAT1000H, or one or more CLA1300-series courses may be recommended for students with less language preparation. Placement in Greek and Latin courses is based upon an ungraded diagnostic exam taken upon entry.

      • 1.5 FCEs selected from the CLA1300-level series, CLA5000-level series, GRK/LAT1000, the GRK/LAT1800-level series, MAC1000H, or MAC2000H. Students may take courses from outside the department with the Graduate Coordinator's approval.

    • Students may, but are not required to, take the methodology courses outside their field.

  • Sight translation examination. Completion in either Greek or Latin with a minimum grade of B–.

Mode of Delivery: In person
Program Length: 3 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: FWS); 9 sessions part-time
Time Limit: 3 years full-time; 6 years part-time

 

Classics: Classics MA; Field: Greek and Roman Literature and Culture

Applicants may be admitted to either the two-year MA program or the one-year advanced-standing option, depending on their level of preparation. At the time of application, students are encouraged to indicate their preference for one of the three fields offered: 1) Ancient History and Material Culture or 2) Greek and Roman Literature and Culture. The MA program may be taken on a part-time basis.

MA Program (Two-Year)

Minimum Admission Requirements

  • Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Classics' additional admission requirements stated below.

  • Successful completion of an appropriate bachelor's program in classics or a related field, with at least a B+ average in the final year.

  • The equivalent of three years of training in either Greek or Latin and two years of training in the other language is recommended.

  • Students who are otherwise qualified but who lack the required amount of training in Greek and should consult with the department about further preparation.

Completion Requirements

The two-year MA program consists of 6.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) selected in consultation with the Graduate Coordinator, which includes a 1.0 FCE Graduate Research Paper (CLA2000Y), and completion of the sight translation examination. Students normally complete 3.0 FCEs in Year 1 and 3.0 FCEs in Year 2.

  • Coursework. Students must successfully complete a total of 6.0 FCEs as follows:

    • CLA2000Y Graduate Research Paper completed by May of Year 2 with a minimum grade of B. Progress is assessed at the end of the Fall session with an interim pass/fail mark. Each student is assigned to a faculty advisor for CLA2000Y and works independently on the preparation of a research paper (about 8,000 words long). The Graduate Research Paper is assessed by a committee of two faculty members, including the advisor.

    • 1.0 FCE from the GRK1800-level series or LAT1800-level series. CLA500-level seminars may be substituted with permission of the Graduate Coordinator.

    • The remaining 4.0 FCEs are electives selected in consultation with the Graduate Coordinator as follows:

      • 0.5 FCE selected from GRK1000H or LAT1000H, or one or more CLA1300-series courses may be recommended for students with less language preparation.

      • 3.5 FCEs selected from the CLA1300-level series, CLA5000-level series, GRK/LAT1000, the GRK/LAT1800-level series, MAC1000H, or MAC2000H. Students may take courses from outside the department with the Graduate Coordinator's approval.

    • Students may, but are not required to, take the methodology courses outside their field.

  • Sight translation examination. Completion in either Greek or Latin with a minimum grade of B–.

Mode of Delivery: In person
Program Length: 6 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: FWS-FWS); 3 years part-time
Time Limit: 3 years full-time; 6 years part-time

 

MA Program (One-Year Advanced-Standing Option)

Minimum Admission Requirements

  • Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Classics' additional admission requirements stated below.

  • Successful completion of an appropriate bachelor's program in classics or a related field, with at least a B+ average in the final year.

  • The equivalent of at least three and preferably four years of training in Greek and Latin is recommended.

  • Students who are otherwise qualified but who lack the required amount of training in Greek and Latin should consult with the department about further preparation.

Completion Requirements

The one-year MA program consists of 4.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) selected in consultation with the Graduate Coordinator, which includes a 1.0 FCE Graduate Research Paper (CLA2000Y), and completion of the sight translation examination.

  • Coursework. Students must successfully complete a total 4.0 FCEs as follows:

    • CLA2000Y Graduate Research Paper (1.0 FCE) completed by May with a minimum grade of B. Progress is assessed at the end of the Fall session with an interim pass/fail mark. Each student is assigned to a faculty advisor for CLA2000Y and works independently on the preparation of a research paper (about 8,000 words long). The Graduate Research Paper is assessed by a committee of two faculty members, including the advisor.

    • 1.0 FCE from the GRK1800-level series or LAT1800-level series. CLA500-level seminars may be substituted with permission of the Graduate Coordinator.

    • The remaining 2.0 FCEs are electives selected in consultation with the Graduate Coordinator as follows:

      • 0.5 FCE selected from GRK1000H or LAT1000H, or one or more CLA1300-series courses may be recommended for students with less language preparation. Placement in Greek and Latin courses is based upon an ungraded diagnostic exam taken upon entry.

      • 1.5 FCEs selected from the CLA1300-level series, CLA5000-level series, GRK/LAT1000, the GRK/LAT1800-level series, MAC1000H, or MAC2000H. Students may take courses from outside the department with the Graduate Coordinator's approval.

    • Students may, but are not required to, take the methodology courses outside their field.

  • Sight translation examination. Completion in either Greek or Latin with a minimum grade of B–.

Mode of Delivery: In person
Program Length: 3 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: FWS); 9 sessions part-time
Time Limit: 3 years full-time; 6 years part-time

 

Classics: Classics PhD

The Department of Classics offers a diverse program of graduate studies leading to the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree. With one of the largest graduate faculty in North America, the department offers a combination of rigorous training and engagement with a range of diverse and innovative methodologies. The program offers the opportunity to pursue study in several fields of specialization within the broad ambit of Classical Studies. Visit the departmental website for descriptions of specific fields. The department also connects students to the rich resources that the University of Toronto has to offer graduate research, including Robarts Research Library, with digital and print holdings unrivalled in Canada and representing one of the finest collections for Classical Studies in North America. Several collaborative specializations are also offered, with close connections with other departments and programs across campus.

Classics: Classics PhD; Field: Ancient History and Material Culture

PhD Program

Minimum Admission Requirements

  • Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Classics' additional admission requirements stated below.

  • Applicants are considered for admission if they have successfully completed a master's program in classics with sufficient training for the field in which they are seeking admission.

  • Students who have completed the MA program in Classics at the University of Toronto are required to have grades of at least B+ in all graded coursework and a grade of at least A– on the Graduate Research Paper CLA2000Y.

Completion Requirements

  • Coursework. Successful completion of 3.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) with an A– average selected in consultation with the Graduate Coordinator. At the department's discretion, students who need additional language preparation may be required to take a selection of courses approved by the department during Year 1 before beginning to prepare for the qualifying examinations. Students will be notified of such additional requirements at the time of their offers of admission or early in their first session following the entrance diagnostic exam. The 3.0 FCEs will include:

    • CLA2000Y Graduate Research Paper to be completed by May of Year 1 with a grade of at least A–. Progress is assessed at the end of the Fall session by an interim pass/fail mark. Each student is assigned to a faculty advisor for CLA2000Y and works independently on the preparation of a research paper (about 8,000 words in length). The Graduate Research Paper is assessed by a committee of two faculty members, including the advisor. Students who have previously completed CLA2000Y, or an equivalent graduate research paper, will instead complete 1.0 elective FCE selected in consultation with the Graduate Coordinator.

    • CLA3020Y Ancient History Methods Course. Students who have previously completed CLA3020Y will instead complete 1.0 elective FCE selected in consultation with the Graduate Coordinator.

    • 1.0 elective FCE selected from the following recommended courses: CLA1300-level series, CLA5000-level series, GRK/LAT1800-level series, and MAC1000H or MAC2000H. Students may only take up to 1.0 FCE in courses from the CLA1300-level series unless approved by the Graduate Coordinator. Of the 1.0 elective FCE:

      • At least 0.5 FCE is taken from courses not offered by or cross-listed by the Department of Classics.

      • Students may, but are not required to, take the methodology courses outside their field as part of the elective courses selected.

      • GRK1000H and LAT1000H, or courses below the GRK/LAT1000-level, are not eligible to fulfil the elective requirements.

  • Qualifying exam. Successful completion of both Greek and Latin qualifying exams. One of these exams must be passed by May of Year 2, and both must be passed by January of Year 3; passing the exams at an earlier stage is advisable. Both exams must be passed before the major field examination is attempted. Students in the Mediterranean Archaeology Collaborative Specialization (MACS) are required to complete on qualifying exam in either Greek or Latin. The second exam may be replaced either by a B+ in a GRK/LAT1800-level series in an approved second language or by a passing grade on the sight translation exam in that language.

  • Sight translation examinations. Successful completion in either Greek or Latin with a passing grade by May of Year 2. Students in the Mediterranean Archaeology Collaborative Specialization (MACS) are not required to complete sight translation examinations except as a way of fulfilling the requirement for their second qualifying exam.

  • Demonstration of adequate reading knowledge of two modern languages of research other than English, one of which will normally be German, before the major field examination is attempted.

  • Satisfactory completion of the major field examination (CLA4000Y). The major field defines a broad area of specialization, within which the dissertation topic will fall. It is normally established by Year 2 of the four-year PhD program and is directed by the supervisory committee. Preparation for the major field examination includes the completion of a satisfactory research essay. The major field is examined by means of two written examinations, one of which may involve translation from the list of primary sources, and an oral examination covering the research essay and the examination papers. The major field examination should be completed by the middle of Year 3 of the four-year PhD program.

  • The dissertation should be completed by the end of Year 4.

Mode of Delivery: In person
Program Length: 4 years full-time (typical registration sequence: Continuous)
Time Limit: 6 years full-time

 

PhD Program (Direct-Entry)

Minimum Admission Requirements

  • Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Classics' additional admission requirements stated below.

  • Successful completion of a bachelor's program in classics of a related field with at least an A– average in the final year and sufficient training for the field in which they are seeking admission.

  • The equivalent of three years of training in either Greek or Latin, familiarity with the other language, and demonstrated excellence in the study of Greek and Roman history and material culture is required.

Completion Requirements

  • Coursework. Successful completion of 6.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) with an A– average selected in consultation with the Graduate Coordinator. This includes:

    • CLA2000Y Graduate Research Paper to be completed by May of Year 1 with a grade of at least A–. Progress is assessed at the end of the Fall session by an interim pass/fail mark. Each student is assigned to a faculty advisor for CLA2000Y and works independently on the preparation of a research paper (about 8,000 words in length). The Graduate Research Paper is assessed by a committee of two faculty members, including the advisor.

    • CLA3020Y Ancient History Methods Course.

    • 4.0 elective FCEs selected from the following recommended courses: CLA1300-level series, CLA5000-level series, GRK/LAT1000-level series, GRK/LAT1800-level series, and MAC1000H or MAC2000H. Students may only take up to 1.0 FCE in courses from the CLA1300-level series unless approved by the Graduate Coordinator. Of the 4.0 elective FCEs:

      • At least 0.5 FCE is taken from courses not offered by or cross-listed by the Department of Classics.

      • Students may, but are not required to, take the methodology courses outside their field as part of the elective courses selected.

  • Qualifying exams. Successful completion of both Greek and Latin qualifying exams. One of these exams must be passed by May of Year 2, and both must be passed by January of Year 3; passing the exams at an earlier stage is advisable. Both exams must be passed before the major field examination is attempted. Students in the Mediterranean Archaeology Collaborative Specialization (MACS) are required to complete the qualifying exam in either Greek or Latin. The second exam may be replaced either by a B+ in a GRK/LAT1800-level series in an approved second language or by a passing grade on the sight translation exam in that language.

  • Sight translation examinations. Successful completion in either Greek or Latin with a passing grade by May of Year 2. Students in the Mediterranean Archaeology Collaborative Specialization (MACS) are not required to complete sight translation exams except as a way of fulfilling the requirement for their second qualifying exam.

  • Demonstration of adequate reading knowledge of two modern languages of research other than English, one of which will normally be German, before the major field examination is attempted.

  • Satisfactory completion of the major field examination (CLA4000Y). The major field defines a broad area of specialization, within which the dissertation topic will fall. It is normally established by Year 3 of the program and is directed by the supervisory committee. Preparation for the major field examination includes the completion of a satisfactory research essay. The major field is examined by means of two written examinations, one of which may involve translation from the list of primary sources, and an oral examination covering the research essay and the examination papers. The major field examination should be completed by the middle of Year 4.

  • The dissertation should be completed by the end of Year 5.

Mode of Delivery: In person
Program Length: 5 years full-time (typical registration sequence: Continuous)
Time Limit: 7 years full-time

 

Classics: Classics PhD; Field: Ancient Philosophy

PhD Program

Minimum Admission Requirements

  • Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Classics' additional admission requirements stated below.

  • Applicants are considered for admission if they have successfully completed a master's program in classics with sufficient training for the field in which they are seeking admission.

  • Students who have completed the MA program in Classics at the University of Toronto are required to have grades of at least B+ in all graded coursework and a grade of at least A– on the Graduate Research Paper CLA2000Y.

Completion Requirements

  • Coursework. Satisfactory completion of 3.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) with an A– average selected in consultation with the Graduate Coordinator. At the department's discretion, students who need additional language preparation may be required to take a selection of courses approved by the department during Year 1 before beginning to prepare for the qualifying examinations. Students will be notified of such additional requirements at the time of their offers of admission or early in their first session following the entrance diagnostic exam. The 3.0 FCEs will include:

    • CLA2000Y Graduate Research Paper to be completed by May of Year 1 with a grade of at least A–. Progress is assessed at the end of the Fall session by an interim pass/fail mark. Each student is assigned to a faculty advisor for CLA2000Y and works independently on the preparation of a research paper (about 8,000 words in length). The Graduate Research Paper is assessed by a committee of two faculty members, including the advisor. Students who have previously completed CLA2000Y, or an equivalent graduate research paper, will instead complete 1.0 elective FCE selected in consultation with the Graduate Coordinator.

    • AMP2000Y Collaborative Specialization in Ancient and Medieval Philosophy (CSAMP) Proseminar. Students who have previously completed AMP2000Y will instead complete 1.0 elective FCE selected in consultation with the Graduate Coordinator.

    • 1.0 elective FCE selected from the following recommended courses: CLA1300-level series, CLA5000-level series, GRK/LAT1800-level series, and MAC1000H or MAC2000H. Students may only take up to 1.0 FCE in courses from the CLA1300-level series unless approved by the Graduate Coordinator. Of the 1.0 elective FCE:

      • At least 0.5 FCE is taken from courses not offered by or cross-listed by the Department of Classics.

      • Students may, but are not required to, take the methodology courses outside their field as part of the elective courses selected.

      • GRK1000H and LAT1000H, or courses below the GRK/LAT1000-level, are not eligible to fulfil the elective requirements.

  • Qualifying exams. Successful completion of both Greek and Latin qualifying exams. One of these exams must be passed by May of Year 2, and both must be passed by January of Year 3; passing the exams at an earlier stage is advisable. Both exams must be passed before the major field examination is attempted.

  • Sight translation examinations. Successful completion of both Greek and Latin sight translation examinations. One of these exams must be passed by May of Year 2, and both must be passed before the major field examination is attempted.

  • Demonstration of adequate reading knowledge of two modern languages of research other than English, one of which will normally be German, before the major field examination is attempted.

  • Satisfactory completion of the major field examination (CLA4000Y). The major field defines a broad area of specialization, within which the dissertation topic will fall. It is normally established by Year 2 of the four-year PhD program and is directed by the supervisory committee. Preparation for the major field examination includes the completion of a satisfactory research essay. The major field is examined by means of two written examinations, one of which may involve translation from the list of primary sources, and an oral examination covering the research essay and the examination papers. The major field examination should be completed by the middle of Year 3 of the four-year PhD program.

  • The dissertation should be completed by the end of Year 4.

Mode of Delivery: In person
Program Length: 4 years full-time (typical registration sequence: Continuous)
Time Limit: 6 years full-time

 

PhD Program (Direct-Entry)

Minimum Admission Requirements

  • Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Classics' additional admission requirements stated below.

  • Successful completion of a bachelor's program in classics of a related field with at least an A– average in the final year.

  • At least three years of study in both Greek and Latin and a broad preparation in the reading of ancient texts in the original languages is recommended.

Completion Requirements

  • Coursework. Successful completion of 6.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) with an A– average selected in consultation with the Graduate Coordinator. This includes:

    • CLA2000Y Graduate Research Paper to be completed by May of Year 1 with a grade of at least A–. Progress is assessed at the end of the Fall session by an interim pass/fail mark. Each student is assigned to a faculty advisor for CLA2000Y and works independently on the preparation of a research paper (about 8,000 words in length). The Graduate Research Paper is assessed by a committee of two faculty members, including the advisor.

    • CLA3020Y Ancient History Methods Course.

    • 4.0 elective FCEs selected from the following recommended courses: CLA1300-level series, CLA5000-level series, GRK/LAT1000-level series, GRK/LAT1800-level series, and MAC1000H or MAC2000H. Students may only take up to 1.0 FCE in courses from the CLA1300-level series unless approved by the Graduate Coordinator. Of the 4.0 elective FCEs:

      • At least 0.5 FCE is taken from courses not offered by or cross-listed by the Department of Classics.

      • Students may, but are not required to, take the methodology courses outside their field as part of the elective courses selected.

  • Qualifying exams. Successful completion of both Greek and Latin qualifying exams. One of these exams must be passed by May of Year 2, and both must be passed by January of Year 3; passing the exams at an earlier stage is advisable. Both exams must be passed before the major field examination is attempted.

  • Sight translation examinations. Successful completion in either Greek or Latin with a passing grade by May of Year 2, and both must be passed before the major field examination is attempted.

  • Demonstration of adequate reading knowledge of two modern languages of research other than English, one of which will normally be German, before the major field examination is attempted.

  • Satisfactory completion of the major field examination (CLA4000Y). The major field defines a broad area of specialization, within which the dissertation topic will fall. It is normally established by Year 3 of the program and is directed by the supervisory committee. Preparation for the major field examination includes the completion of a satisfactory research essay. The major field is examined by means of two written examinations, one of which may involve translation from the list of primary sources, and an oral examination covering the research essay and the examination papers. The major field examination should be completed by the middle of Year 4.

  • The dissertation should be completed by the end of Year 5.

Mode of Delivery: In person
Program Length: 5 years full-time (typical registration sequence: Continuous)
Time Limit: 7 years full-time

 

Classics: Classics PhD; Field: Greek and Roman Literature and Culture

PhD Program

Minimum Admission Requirements

  • Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Classics' additional admission requirements stated below.

  • Applicants are considered for admission if they have successfully completed a master's program in classics with sufficient training for the field in which they are seeking admission.

  • Students who have completed the MA program in Classics at the University of Toronto are required to have grades of at least B+ in all graded coursework and a grade of at least A– on the Graduate Research Paper CLA2000Y.

Completion Requirements

  • Coursework. Successful completion of 3.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) with an A– average selected in consultation with the Graduate Coordinator. At the department's discretion, students who need additional language preparation may be required to take a selection of courses approved by the department during Year 1 before beginning to prepare for the qualifying examinations. Students will be notified of such additional requirements at the time of their offers of admission or early in their first session following the entrance diagnostic exam. The 3.0 FCEs will include:

    • CLA2000Y Graduate Research Paper to be completed by May of Year 1 with a grade of at least A–. Progress is assessed at the end of the Fall session by an interim pass/fail mark. Each student is assigned to a faculty advisor for CLA2000Y and works independently on the preparation of a research paper (about 8,000 words in length). The Graduate Research Paper is assessed by a committee of two faculty members, including the advisor. Students who have previously completed CLA2000Y, or an equivalent graduate research paper, will instead complete 1.0 elective FCE selected in consultation with the Graduate Coordinator.

    • 1.0 FCE from the GRK/LAT1800-series courses. Students may substitute with a CLA5000-level series course with permission of the Graduate Coordinator. Students who have previously completed these courses will instead complete 1.0 elective FCE selected in consultation with the Graduate Coordinator.

    • 1.0 elective FCE selected from the following recommended courses: CLA1300-level series, CLA5000-level series, GRK/LAT1800-level series, and MAC1000H or MAC2000H. Students may only take up to 1.0 FCE in courses from the CLA1300-level series unless approved by the Graduate Coordinator. Of the 1.0 elective FCE:

      • At least 0.5 FCE is taken from courses not offered by or cross-listed by the Department of Classics.

      • Students may, but are not required to, take the methodology courses outside their field as part of the elective courses selected.

      • GRK1000H and LAT1000H, or courses below the GRK/LAT1000-level, are not eligible to fulfil the elective requirements.

  • Qualifying exams. Successful completion of both Greek and Latin qualifying exams. One of these exams must be passed by May of Year 2, and both must be passed by January of Year 3; passing the exams at an earlier stage is advisable. Both exams must be passed before the major field examination is attempted.

  • Sight translation examinations. Successful completion of both Greek and Latin sight translation examinations. One of these exams must be passed by May of Year 2, and both must be passed before the major field examination is attempted.

  • Demonstration of adequate reading knowledge of two modern languages of research other than English, one of which will normally be German, before the major field examination is attempted.

  • Satisfactory completion of the major field examination (CLA4000Y). The major field defines a broad area of specialization, within which the dissertation topic will fall. It is normally established by Year 2 of the four-year PhD program and is directed by the supervisory committee. Preparation for the major field examination includes the completion of a satisfactory research essay. The major field is examined by means of two written examinations, one of which may involve translation from the list of primary sources, and an oral examination covering the research essay and the examination papers. The major field examination should be completed by the middle of Year 3 of the four-year PhD program.

  • The dissertation should be completed by the end of Year 4.

Mode of Delivery: In person
Program Length: 4 years full-time (typical registration sequence: Continuous)
Time Limit: 6 years full-time

 

PhD Program (Direct-Entry)

Minimum Admission Requirements

  • Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Classics' additional admission requirements stated below.

  • Successful completion of a bachelor's program in classics of a related field with at least an A– average in the final year.

  • At least three years of study in both Greek and Latin and a broad preparation in the reading of ancient texts in the original languages is recommended.

Completion Requirements

  • Coursework. Successful completion of 6.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) with an A– average selected in consultation with the Graduate Coordinator. This includes:

    • CLA2000Y Graduate Research Paper to be completed by May of Year 1 with a grade of at least A–. Progress is assessed at the end of the Fall session by an interim pass/fail mark. Each student is assigned to a faculty advisor for CLA2000Y and works independently on the preparation of a research paper (about 8,000 words in length). The Graduate Research Paper is assessed by a committee of two faculty members, including the advisor.

    • 1.0 FCE from the GRK/LAT1800-series courses. Students may substitute with a CLA5000-level series course with permission of the Graduate Coordinator.

    • 4.0 elective FCEs selected from the following recommended courses: CLA1300-level series, CLA5000-level series, GRK/LAT1000-level series, GRK/LAT1800-level series, and MAC1000H or MAC2000H. Students may only take up to 1.0 FCE in courses from the CLA1300-level series unless approved by the Graduate Coordinator. Of the 4.0 elective FCEs:

      • At least 0.5 FCE is taken from courses not offered by or cross-listed by the Department of Classics.

      • Students may, but are not required to, take the methodology courses outside their field as part of the elective courses selected.

  • Qualifying exams. Successful completion of both Greek and Latin qualifying exams. One of these exams must be passed by May of Year 2, and both must be passed by January of Year 3; passing the exams at an earlier stage is advisable. Both exams must be passed before the major field examination is attempted.

  • Sight translation examinations. Successful completion of both Greek and Latin sight translation examinations. One of these exams must be passed by May of Year 2, and both must be passed before the major field examination is attempted.

  • Demonstration of adequate reading knowledge of two modern languages of research other than English, one of which will normally be German, before the major field examination is attempted.

  • Satisfactory completion of the major field examination (CLA4000Y). The major field defines a broad area of specialization, within which the dissertation topic will fall. It is normally established by Year 3 of the program and is directed by the supervisory committee. Preparation for the major field examination includes the completion of a satisfactory research essay. The major field is examined by means of two written examinations, one of which may involve translation from the list of primary sources, and an oral examination covering the research essay and the examination papers. The major field examination should be completed by the middle of Year 4.

  • The dissertation should be completed by the end of Year 5.

Mode of Delivery: In person
Program Length: 5 years full-time (typical registration sequence: Continuous)
Time Limit: 7 years full-time

 

Classics: Classics MA, PhD Courses

Not all courses are offered every year. Please consult the department for course offerings.

Course CodeCourse Title
AMP2000YCollaborative Specialization in Ancient and Medieval Philosophy (CSAMP) Proseminar
CLA2000YGraduate Research Paper
CLA3020YAncient History Methods Course
CLA4000YMajor Field
Advanced Studies in Greek Language
Special Topics in Greek Literature
Classical Greek Literature and Culture
Hellenistic Literature and Culture
Greek Sight Exam
JCO5121HClassics and Theory
Advanced Studies in Latin Language
Special Topics in Latin Literature
Readings in the Roman Historians
Readings in Roman Republican Literature and Culture
Readings in Roman Imperial Literature and Culture
Latin Sight Exam
Doctoral Seminar Series — Compulsory Attendance

Research Seminars

The following courses are open to students in other departments with the permission of the instructor and the Department of Classics. See the departmental brochure or website for language requirements. Not all courses are offered every year. See the departmental brochure or website for course offerings in the current year.

Course CodeCourse Title
Early Greek Epic
Studies in Greek Poetry
Criticism of Latin Poetry
Literature of the Roman Republic
Virgil
Studies in Ancient Philosophy I
Studies in Ancient Science
Latin Poetry of the Empire
Topics in Greek and Hellenistic History
Topics in Roman History
Topics in the Study of Greek and Hellenistic Literature and Culture
Topics in the Study of Greek and Hellenistic Society
Topics in the Study of Roman Literature and Culture
Topics in the Study of Roman Society
Topics in Greek and Hellenistic History II
Topics in Graeco-Roman Historiography I
Topics in Graeco-Roman History I
Topics in Graeco-Roman History II
Andronicus of Rhodes and the Early Peripatos
Augustine: Soliloquia

Directed Reading

Course CodeCourse Title
Studies in Classical Antiquity
Studies in Classical Antiquity
Studies in Classical Antiquity
CLA1305HStudies in Classical Latin
Studies in Greek Literature I
Studies in Latin Literature I
CLA1309HStudies in Latin Literature II