Classical and Ancient Studies: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Classical and Ancient Studies offers an interdisciplinary exploration of the civilizations, languages, literatures, philosophies, and historical developments of the ancient Mediterranean world, with a primary focus on Greece and Rome. This program equips students with critical analytical skills through the study of primary sources, archaeological evidence, and comparative cultural frameworks, fostering deep understanding of how ancient ideas continue to shape modern thought and society.
- Classical Languages: Advanced study of Ancient Greek and Latin, emphasizing reading comprehension, grammar, and linguistic analysis of original texts.
- Ancient History: In-depth examination of political, military, social, and economic developments across ancient civilizations from the Bronze Age to Late Antiquity.
- Classical Literature: Close reading and interpretation of epic poetry, drama, historical narratives, and philosophical works by authors such as Homer, Virgil, Sophocles, and Cicero.
- Philosophy and Thought: Analysis of foundational ideas in ethics, metaphysics, politics, and epistemology from ancient Greek and Roman thinkers including Plato, Aristotle, and Seneca.
- Art and Archaeology: Investigation of material culture, architecture, sculpture, and excavation findings that illuminate daily life, religious practices, and societal structures.
- Cultural Contexts: Exploration of how ancient societies interacted with one another, developed institutions, and influenced the evolution of Western and global cultural traditions.
Classical and Ancient Studies Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Classical and Ancient Studies Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Classical and Ancient Studies degrees, including Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, Postsecondary, Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers, Postsecondary and History Teachers, Postsecondary. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 47,760 professionals.
National Average Salaries
Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
---|---|---|---|---|
Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, Postsecondary 25-1061 | $95,770 | $51,380 - $169,090 | 5,260 | N/A |
Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers, Postsecondary 25-1062 | $84,290 | $51,130 - $164,650 | 11,430 | N/A |
History Teachers, Postsecondary 25-1125 | $81,500 | $47,730 - $158,140 | 19,860 | N/A |
Historians 19-3093 | $74,050 | $38,630 - $128,500 | 3,140 | $35.60 |
Anthropologists and Archeologists 19-3091 | $64,910 | $44,510 - $104,510 | 8,070 | $31.21 |
Classical and Ancient Studies Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $49,000 in North Dakota to $106,810 in New Hampshire—a 118% difference. The highest-paying states include New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 47,760 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Classical and Ancient Studies by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 1 institutions offering Classical and Ancient Studies programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Classical and Ancient Studies is found at University of Hawaii (UHM), Manoa (3 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 3 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
University of Hawaii (UHM) |
Bachelor's
|
3 | Honolulu, Hawaii | Public | manoa.hawaii.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Classical and Ancient Studies programs
How much can I earn with a Classical and Ancient Studies degree?
Salaries for Classical and Ancient Studies graduates vary by role and location. Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, Postsecondary earn a median of $95,770 annually, while Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers, Postsecondary earn around $84,290. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in New Hampshire average $106,810 compared to $49,000 in North Dakota. Approximately 47,760 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Classical and Ancient Studies programs?
Currently 1 accredited institutions offer Classical and Ancient Studies degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include University of Hawaii (UHM), Manoa (3 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
What career paths are available with a Classical and Ancient Studies degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, Postsecondary, Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers, Postsecondary, and History Teachers, Postsecondary. Related occupations employ approximately 47,760 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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