BA Ancient Studies at University of California, Santa Cruz

Programme overview

Ancient studies at the University of California, Santa Cruz, combines features of traditional programs, such as solid grounding in the ancient languages, with innovative, interdisciplinary approaches. While the core of the program is focused on courses in the ancient Greek and Latin languages, the program also encompasses courses in history, the history of art and visual culture, literature, philosophy, politics, and theater arts, from the Bronze Age through the Early Christian era.

Faculty: Humanities Division | Department: History | Study mode: full-time | Location: Santa Cruz, CA, United States

What you will study

Required courses listed in the catalogue include Elementary Ancient Greek, Elementary Latin, Cult, Church, Empire: History of Early Christianity, 0-431 C.E., The Bible in History, Culture, and Controversy, When Pharaohs Reigned: The History of Ancient Egypt, Pyramids of Earth: Religion and Symbol in the Ancient World.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Catalogue preparation guidance for the major (admission to the university is separate): Ancient studies has no major qualification. Students should submit a petition to declare before or by their declaration deadline quarter.

Domestic applicants: USD 14,202 a year (2026-27). UC undergraduate Tuition for California residents first enrolled in 2026-27 (Tuition Stability Plan cohort rate); one rate for all undergraduate majors. Excludes Student Services Fee, campus fees, UC SHIP health insurance and records fee. Non-residents ad Source

Fall quarter entry (classes for fall 2026 began September 24, 2026); winter quarter entry (winter 2027 instruction begins January 4, 2027).

UC Application for fall 2027 opens October 1, 2026 and the filing deadline is November 30, 2026; the application is available online from August 1, 2026. Fall 2027 first-year decisions appear on the Admissions Portal late February to mid-March 2027; transfer decisions April 1-30, 2027. Transfer Academic Update due January 31, 2027; UCSC TAG filing period September 1-30, 2026.

UC Santa Cruz does not use ACT/SAT scores in its comprehensive review and selection process. Applications are made through the UC Application. Minimum GPA is 3.00 for California residents and 3.40 for non-residents and international applicants.

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