Classical Humanities majors typically take the following courses in the fall semester of their first year:
First-Year Experience Learning Community Courses
We will register you in these courses.
- Philosophy (PHIL 201)
- English Composition (ENG 101) OR Theology (TRS 201)
Why am I taking these classes? Honors students take equivalent honors courses.
Major and Elective Courses
You will need to choose and register for these courses.
- Latin or Greek (based on placement)
- Ancient Roman Art and Architecture (CLAS 318) or, if you are in the Honors program and intend to complete the Humanities Honors track, Jesus to Muhammad (HSHU 101).
- A liberal arts foundations course; a course toward a minor, certificate, or other focus area; or a free elective
About Your First Semester Courses
First-year courses for classical humanities majors focus on combining language development and culture courses. You will take an ancient language (either Greek or Latin) during both semesters and you will start studying the ancient world through classes on mythology, history, art, and architecture. Your Learning Community course in philosophy, since it starts with the philosophical thought of ancient and early Christian world, will give you another perspective on the classical world.
Courses that teach Greek and Latin languages are labeled GR and LAT, respectively. The first four semesters of study are numbered 101-102 (the elementary level) and 103-104 (the intermediate level). If you took Latin in high school, you might start at the intermediate level (or even above it) at Catholic if your placement exam suggests that that is what is right for you. Most new CUA classicists start their Greek at the 101 level. You will automatically complete the university's language requirement as part of your major.
Non-language classics courses are labeled "CLAS." These courses use readings only in English, with no Latin or Greek expected or required. These kinds of courses are open to students at all levels. To prepare for these classes, students usually complete homework in the form of readings in English, and then come to class to listen to lectures, view images, and participate in discussions about the material. Students in the University Honors Program could choose to take Jesus to Muhammad (HSHU 101) this fall instead of CLAS 318.
For your fifth course, you can choose what you like. You can take a liberal arts elective or a free elective course in a subject of your interest. Or, you may wish to begin study in a secondary subject area, perhaps for a minor or certificate.
To learn more about the Classical Humanities major, consult the Greek and Latin Department’s website.
Know which courses you want? Get registered.