Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. What if I have not studied Latin or ancient Greek at the undergraduate level—can I still apply to the graduate program?

A. No. We do not accept students without the equivalent of three years of college-level Latin and (for all degrees except the M.A.T.) two years of college-level ancient Greek. We recommend you pursue a post-baccalaureate program in the ancient languages. Details of the Rutgers Classics Post-Baccaulareate program are here: http://classics.rutgers.edu/post-bacc

Q. I studied Latin and ancient Greek in college, but I did not major in Classics—can I still apply to the graduate program?

A. Yes.  Coursework in classical civilization is desirable, but coursework in the ancient languages is given the highest priority.

Q. I already have a master’s degree in Classics and would like to pursue a Ph.D. at Rutgers.  Will I have to do another master’s degree?

A. Those students who seek to enter Rutgers Classics from another graduate program are evaluated on an individual basis.  Generally such applicants should expect that no more than 12 credits will be transferred from their previous institution.  In addition, such applicants take a diagnostic examination at the end of the first year to assess competency in the ancient languages, and may be asked to take the full M.A. comprehensive examination.

Q. How do I apply to the Rutgers Classics graduate program?

A. The admissions process is handled by Rutgers Graduate Admissions.  Please go through their website:

http://gradstudy.rutgers.edu/

The Classics department is not allowed to receive materials directly from applicants.  This includes letters of recommendation.  Please send all materials directly to Rutgers Graduate Admissions.

Q. Do I need a writing sample?

A. It is recommended but not required.

Q. Regarding letters of recommendation, who should write on my behalf? 

A. Successful applicants typically have letters from three faculty members, at least two of whom can attest to the competency of the applicant in the relevant ancient languages.

Q. How do I visit the Rutgers Classics department?

A. We welcome and encourage prospective students to visit.  If you plan to be in the area, please let the graduate director know.  Generally, 48 hours notice is sufficient.  We prefer having prospective students visit us when classes are in session in the fall or spring semesters.

Q. What if I am interested in the graduate program, and have the qualifications for matriculation, but do not want to formally enroll.  Can I take classes on a non-matriculated basis?

A. Qualified students should obtain a copy of their undergraduate transcript and consult with the graduate director.

Q. Do you accept students to start in the spring semester?

A. Typically no.

Q. Can I seek a degree on a part-time basis?

A. Yes, but fellowship funding is available only for full-time doctoral track students.

Q. Can I apply for funding for the M.A. or M.A.T. tracks?

A. Unfortunately, fellowship funding is not available for M.A.T. students. However, we are offering one to two funded MA fellowships in 2023-24.

Q. Are graduate courses offered in the summer?

A. Typically no.

Q. I applied to the Ph.D. program, however, I received a letter from Rutgers Graduate Admissions stating I was admitted the M.A. program.  Why is this?

A. In all likelihood, you were admitted to the doctoral track master’s program.  We put all our Ph.D. applicants into the doctoral master’s track.  After matriculation, students consult with the graduate director about their coursework and exam requirements.

Q. If I am accepted into the program, when can I start taking courses through the inter-university doctoral consortium?

A. Typically in the second year of graduate study.

Q. How do I find out about graduate housing, health insurance, and other practical matters?

A. Please consult the following website:

http://ruoncampus.rutgers.edu/graduate-student-housing/