Classics and Ancient Mediterranean Studies
Classics and Ancient Mediterranean Studies (CAMS) is the study of ancient civilizations that arose and flourished around the Mediterranean basin (including Egypt, Greece, Rome, Anatolia, Israel, Mesopotamia, and North Africa) from the “cradle of civilization” in Mesopotamia (ca. 4000 BCE) to the end of Greco-Roman antiquity (ca. 600 CE). CAMS investigates the whole scope of the ancient Mediterranean world and trains students to interpret the linguistic and archaeological evidence of the greatest ancient cultures.
Degree Types: Bachelor of Arts, Minor
Explore Interests Related to Classics and Ancient Mediterranean Studies
Studies ancient languages, cultures, and societies. Equips students to analyze historical patterns, apply critical thinking to AI ethics, and contribute to projects that digitize and preserve cultural heritage.
Focuses on ancient cultures, languages, and histories. Prepares students to understand the cultural foundations of the modern world, contribute to historical preservation, and engage in global cultural exchange.
Degree Options
Degree Concentrations
- Ancient Mediterranean Archaeology
- Ancient Languages
- Classic and Ancient Mediterranean Studies
Popular Double Majors or Minors
- Philosophy
- Art History
- Anthropology
- History
- Jewish Studies
About the Program
Why should I pursue this degree?
You might like this program if…
- You want to learn the methods of archaeology and archaeological interpretation with the goal of reconstructing the social practices and historical development of different peoples in the ancient Mediterranean.
- You want to master an interdisciplinary subject with a long-term perspective on the human condition and on cultural achievements across diverse geographical regions.
- You want to pursue a career in education, archaeology, or law.
Transferable Skills
- Oral and Written Communication Skills
- Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills
- Attention to Details and Organizational Skills
- Analytical Skills
- Research Skills
Coursework
Opportunities to explore the following topics:
- Classical Mythology
- Ancient Languages
- Ancient Archaeology
- Biblical History
- Mediterranean History
Out-of-Classroom Experiences
Internships
- Centre County Historical Society
- George and Ann Richards Civil War Era Center
Education Abroad Destinations
Greece
Israel
Italy
Spain
Career Paths
Continuing Education
- Law school
- Graduate school to study classics, classical languages and literature, history, library science, cognition and communication, museum studies, and archeology
Job Titles
- Human Resources Representative
- Technical Writer
- Librarian and Archivist
- Paralegal or Lawyer
- Grant Writer
- Museum Curator
- Translator
- Professor
Industries
Customer Service, Education (K-12), Higher Education, Project Development
Employers
- PNC Bank
- U.S. Navy
- Universities
- Clinton Foundation
- University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
- Library Company of Philadelphia
Have questions about this program?
Future students, contact the Liberal Arts Recruitment Team.
Current students, contact your academic adviser.
This program is housed
in the Department of Classics and Ancient Mediterranean Studies
at Penn State University Park.