A brief description of the department:
The Department of Classics offers integrated programs in the literatures and cultures of ancient Greece and Rome. Our aim is to bring together the study of literature, myth, history, and material culture in the attempt to understand the world of classical antiquity as a whole. We train students in the philological, historical, and archaeological tools necessary to gain access to this world. We encourage all students to develop an interdisciplinary focus of their own choosing.
Particular strengths or unique areas of interest for the department: Roman and Greek studies; political and literary theory; Hellenistic and Roman history, especially of economics; papyrology; philosophy, religion, and science
Application deadline: January 4
Unusual features of the application: No
GRE scores required: Yes
Writing sample required: We appreciate a writing sample of up to 20 pages.
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):
We expect the equivalent of an American undergraduate Classics major (several years of both Latin and Greek) with high grades (mostly AŐs) in relevant areas of study, especially in the junior and senior years. We do not put great weight on math GRE scores, but see it as a danger sing if scores in other areas fall below 600.
Average number of new graduate students per year: We take 3 PhD students a year and occasional MA students.
Approximate percentage of applicants this represents: 5%
Number of new students entering program this fall: 2-3 PhD
Approximate percentage of incoming students given full funding: All PhD students receive full funding. There is no funding for MA students.
Number of guaranteed years of funding: 5 years PhD
Out of those years, number student will be expected or required to serve as TA, RA, or the like: 1-2 years expected, none required.
International students eligibility for financial aid: Yes
PhDs and MAs awarded since January 2005: PhD: 4. MA: 1
Major changes anticipated in the department over the next few years, if any: We have new faculty in Greek and Latin and are, again, hiring this year in Greek literature. The new PhD program at the Institute for the Study of the Ancient World provides new opportunities for our graduate students.
Best contact person for questions: Markus Asper asper@nyu.edu
2007 Survey Response