The study of classical languages, including Greek and Latin, includes examining the literature and cultures of the Mediterranean basin from approximately 2000 BCE to 600 CE.

Study in classics helps students understand the contributions of the ancient world to life today and in the future.

Students with a degree in this area go on to careers in medicine and law, teaching, or pursue advanced degrees in library and information science, museum studies, religious studies, history, archeology, and business.

As a classical languages student at Iowa, students will enjoy a liberal arts college experience within the rich and stimulating environment of a major research university. Students will have opportunities to work closely with the department's faculty members, who are dedicated teachers and researchers.

In addition to offering a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in classical languages, the Department of Classics also has strong programs in Greek and Latin. The curriculum draws on a wide range of courses about the ancient world, taught in English and offered by the classics department and by other departments and programs across the university, including the School of Art and Art History, School of Religion, and the Department of History.