Doctor of Philosophy in Classics

Stanford Classics offers an intellectually vibrant and broadly transdisciplinary exploration of the ancient Mediterranean world. Ph.D. students specialize in literature, history, archaeology, or philosophy and the history of science, their training combines core skills and methods with innovative and theoretically informed approaches. Stanford University requires that Ph.D. students complete 135 units of coursework, with a maximum of 45 units which may be transferred from another institution. Each track within the Ph.D. program requires different sets of coursework to complete within the 135 units of residency. These requirements are listed in detail in the Stanford Bulletin. After coursework is completed (typically by the end of the third year), the final two years are then devoted to proposing, writing and defending the dissertation.

Minimum TOEFL Requirements ibt- 100/
Applicants from institutions outside the U.S. must hold the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor's degree from a college or university of recognized standing
Statement of Purpose: reasons for applying, preparation, specific study and research interests, future career plans, and any other information about yourself as a scholar and future faculty.
Letters of Recommendation: Three letters of recommendation are required from faculty members or others who are qualified to evaluate academic work and teaching potential. Recommenders submit their letters through the online system by the application deadline.

Official Transcripts: Transcripts are required from all prior college level schools attended for at least one year. A scanned copy of the unofficial transcript is submitted as part of the online application. Additionally, please mail one official copy of each transcript to the department. We will also accept official electronic transcripts, sent directly to the Student Services Officer from your degree granting institution. For more information on transcripts please refer to Graduate Admissions.

Writing sample: an academic paper in your field of interest, 15-25 pages in length, double-spaced and single-sided.

Curriculum Vitae (C.V.): academic resume of your qualifications. Included in this C.V. should be a list of your language qualifications. Ancient languages should be demonstrated by a list of works read in the original. Modern languages may be indicated using the labels Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced and Fluent, along with the number of years studied.

Graduate Record Examination (GRE): The GRE is NOT required for admission. Please do not send GRE scores, they will not be reviewed. Much more important is an excellent writing sample, strong letters of recommendation, an illuminating and thoughtful personal statement about your academic background, research interests, and plans for graduate school.