Rollins

To understand where we’re going, we must reflect on where we’ve been—even if that means going all the way back to the beginning. Classical studies is the original liberal arts degree, combining aspects of art, history, archeology, literature, and philosophy into a comprehensive look at the cultures of the ancient Mediterranean.

You’ll have the opportunity to study artifacts up close through local museum collections or right at the source in places like Athens and Rome. You’ll put yourself in the shoes of Greek senators as well as servants and slaves in order to understand the foundations of our democracy. And with a major emphasis on developing critical thinking and research skills, you’ll be prepared for virtually any industry. Our students have gone on to study law, teach Latin, research lost cities, and serve as international business leaders.



Why Study Classical Studies at Rollins

  1. Room to Explore

    Thanks to a truly interdisciplinary approach, you’re free to follow your interests. A degree in classical studies lets you reach out and touch history through the study of art, theater, literature, philosophy, and more.

  2. Experiential Learning

    Whether it’s examining an ancient sarcophagus up close at our very own Cornell Fine Arts Museum or staging a true-to-life Roman banquet to explore notions of class and privilege, studying the classics at Rollins doesn’t happen in overcrowded lecture halls.

  3. Personalized Attention

    At Rollins, mentorship is the heart of everything we do. Small class sizes allow our expert faculty to get to know your goals and interests, and because classical studies is such a specialized track, your peers become your tribe.

Interested in Studying Classical Studies at Rollins?

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Cherie Ramirez ’06

“My love for teaching and science blossomed during my classical studies and biochemistry/molecular biology double major at Rollins. The opportunities beyond the classroom were hugely beneficial in my transition to the PhD program in genetics at Harvard. Even today, the hands-on experiences at Rollins influence my approach with undergraduates because they were so effective.”

Cherie Ramirez ’06

Assistant Professor and STEM Faculty Fellow, Simmons University


Rollins Classical Studies Careers

Rollins classical studies grads are making tomorrow happen at some of the world’s most innovative companies and prestigious institutions.

  • Melanie Ng ’15 ’16MBA

    Melanie Ng ’15 ’16MBA

    Senior Financial Analyst, Berkadia
  • Mary Neville ’13

    Mary Neville ’13

    Latin Department Head, St. Thomas’ Episcopal School
  • Self portrait of Mallory Pigmon

    Mallory Pigmon ’15

    Administrative Coordinator, University of Central Florida
  • Jenna Bittenbender ’13

    Jenna Bittenbender ’13

    Conservator, Imperial War Museums
  • Hilary Serra ’08

    Hilary Serra ’08

    Project Manager, Yamhill Community Care

Real World Experience

From internships to research, Rollins classical studies students hone their skills in the real world.

  • Orlando Museum of Art logo
  • Cornell Fine Arts Museum logo
  • Centro logo
  • College Year in Athens logo
Professor and students in a class discussion at a Rollins outdoor classroom

See for Yourself

Get a feel for Rollins’ unique brand of engaged learning and personalized attention through one of our virtual or in-person visit experiences.

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Beyond the Classroom

Applying Knowledge Rollins is home to the only teaching museum in Central Florida, the Cornell Fine Arts Museum, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts and antiquities. You’ll have the opportunity to curate collections, serve as a docent, and conduct original research, all without leaving campus.

Study Abroad Contemplate the origins of democracy while standing on the Acropolis. Explore the lives of Mycenaeans and Minoans as you wander the streets of Crete. Gaze upon Roman frescoes and ancient graffiti in Pompeii. With ample opportunity to participate in study abroad programs and summer field studies, the Classical world is well within reach.

Classics Club The Rollins Classics Club brings together enthusiasts from across the humanities to participate in enrichment activities, mock trials, debates, and performances rooted in ancient traditions.


Students studying abroad in Greece.
Rollins professor shows a Greek theatre to students on a field study to Greece

Dive Into Classical Studies at Rollins

The core of our Classical Studies program is language study, with Latin and Ancient Greek available, accompanied by an interdisciplinary exploration of the Hellenic and Roman worlds through archaeology, history, and philosophy.

What You Will Learn

Expert Faculty

You and your professors will know each other personally very quickly, which means you’ll be mentored by the very PhD-level instructors who have designed the classical studies classes. They take pride in empowering students and guiding you on your Rollins journey.


Classical Studies Program

Orlando Hall – Room 107
1000 Holt Ave. – 2766
Winter Park, FL 32789

Telephone: 407.646.2602

Visit the Classical Studies Program Website

Contact Classical Studies Professors

  • Robert Vander Poppen

    Robert Vander Poppen, PhD

    Associate Professor of Classical Art & Archaeology

    Research interests: Classical art, archeology, food in the ancient world, cultural tensions between imperial powers and native communities

  • Scott Rubarth

    Scott Rubarth, PhD

    George D. and Harriet W. Cornell Scholar in Classical Studies

    Research interests: Philosophy and religion

  • Hannah Ewing

    Hannah Ewing, PhD

    Associate Professor of History

    Research interests: Monasticism in the Byzantine Empire and early Christianity

  • Julia Maskivker

    Julia Maskivker, PhD

    Associate Professor of Political Science

    Research interests: Theories of justice, global ethics, and social and economic citizenship

  • Marianne DiQuattro

    Marianne DiQuattro, PhD

    Theater Literature & History, Associate Professor

    Research interests: Intersection of dramatic literature and phenomenology, theatre and disability