Classics Endorsement
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The Classics Endorsement provides an interdisciplinary program of study that introduces students to a classical language as well as the cultures, history, and philosophies of the ancient Greek, Roman, and Middle Eastern world.
Why should I study classics?
The Classics Endorsement allows students to dive deeply into a world that laid the foundations for much of our western traditions, from politics to thought, art, language, and belief, the Greeks, Romans, and other Mediterranean peoples are responsible for much of our cultural inheritance. The classical world is also the world of early Christianity. This endorsement provides a space for students to investigate the historical contexts in which their faith arose.
The endorsement is 15 credits:
Required:
- History of Ancient Greece (4 credits)
- History of Ancient Rome (4 credits)
- Introductory Biblical Greek I (4 credits)
- Cultural World of the OT (3 credits)
- Cultural World of the NT (3 credits)
- History of Philosophy I (3 credits)
- Classics in Western Political Philosophy (3 credits)
What can I do with this degree?
The Classics Endorsement will introduce you to classical language as well as the cultures, history, and philosophies of the ancient Greek, Roman, and Eastern Mediterranean world—helping you develop skills that can be applied to any program or interest. And it is complemented by a wide range of cultural opportunities in Bethel's many study abroad offerings.What skills will I develop?
The Classics Endorsement helps develop crucial humanities skills like close reading, knowledge of foreign languages, persuasive writing, and the ability to synthesize complex information. These skills will complement and support a variety of majors and interests.
6 majors, 6 minors, and 2 endorsements available in the department
150+
students in the department
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I can honestly say that, as a student, I didn't know my professors' political preferences. Getting such a balanced education from a variety of resources has made me a better consumer of information. From the news I read, the podcasts I listen to, and the conversations I have with others—I am constantly consuming from different/varied credible sources in order to get a well-rounded perspective. This information helps me process and create my own, well-informed opinion.
Dawna Diamon ’09The professors are fantastic. They do a great job delivering interesting and relevant material, providing feedback that fosters growth in academic skill, and building relationships with students. I felt cared about and challenged as I developed as a student, and I felt prepared to go out into the real world.
Kyle Kilgore ’20By studying Western ideas and the role Christianity has played in society, I believe I had a greater depth of understanding than students who studied American politics in a more narrow sense. In the process, I also improved my reasoning and critical thinking skills: the number one thing employers are looking for in an ever-changing labor market.
Ben Olson ’07The professors supported my personal development, academic interests, and writing skills. Also, their class content was extremely relevant to the formation of my identity, values, and thinking.
Jordan Nelson ’13The faculty’s ability to disciple me in how to think analytically, empathetically, and creatively has proven to be immensely helpful since my graduation. I am so grateful for the personal attention and challenges I received from my professors as I wrestled with hard questions and reshaped how I applied my faith to the world.
Cody Bishop ’15I think the most distinctive strength of this department was its commitment to teaching all sides of the story. Learning about Political Science from different perspectives and about different perspectives was crucial to my growing worldview at the time.
Marisa Tillman ’16