A brief description of the department:
Duke’s Department of Classical Studies, over a century old, seeks to provide a broad understanding of Greco-Roman antiquity as a whole; a working knowledge of the tools and techniques needed for research in the field; and familiarity with methodologies relevant to Classical Studies. After course work all students teach.
Particular strengths or unique areas of interest for the department: Documentary studies, palaeography/ text criticism, material culture, literary criticism
Application deadline: December 15 (reduced fee if received by November 15)
Unusual features of the application: No
GRE scores required: Yes
Writing sample required: A writing sample is recommended.
For “best consideration for admission”, applicants should have (note that there are always special cases, and that meeting the stated numerical goals will not guarantee admission to any program):
Successful applicants tend to have at least 3 years of training in one ancient language, and at least 2 in the other; at least one modern scholarly language; and a wide background in Classical Studies (history/archaeology/literature). GPA's in relevant courses tend to be above 3.5.
Average number of new graduate students per year: 3-4
Approximate percentage of applicants this represents: 10%
Number of new students entering program this fall: 1 - deferred entry.
Approximate percentage of incoming students given full funding: 100%
Number of guaranteed years of funding: 5 years of funding provided there is satisfactory progress towards the PhD. We do not normally grant a MA
Out of those years, number student will be expected or required to serve as TA, RA, or the like: 2 semesters as TA (required), 2 years as graduate instructor (usual).
International students eligibility for financial aid: Yes, they are eligible
PhDs and MAs awarded since January 2005: 8 PhDs
Major changes anticipated in the department over the next few years, if any: After a series of retirements, we expect to make several new hires in the next 3 years, to regain our historical level of 11 faculty. We hope to routinely enroll 4-5 students a year.
Best contact person for questions: Clare Woods jcwoods@duke.edu
2007 Survey Response