Greek at Samford: Language, Literature and Classical Heritage
Samford University provides an exceptional education in ancient Greek, offering students a deep understanding of the language, literature and cultural significance of the classical world. The program emphasizes both prose and poetry, allowing students to engage directly with texts that have shaped philosophy, politics, literature and theology for over two millennia.
Students study works by authors such as Homer, Herodotus, Sophocles, Euripides, Plato and Aristotle, developing advanced linguistic skills while exploring themes of mythology, history, drama, rhetoric, political thought and philosophy. Courses not only focus on mastering the Greek language but also provide insight into the cultural, historical and intellectual traditions that continue to influence modern society.
The program also highlights the lasting influence of ancient Greek on modern disciplines, from its foundational role in philosophy and theology to its presence in medical, legal and scientific terminology. By examining these connections, students gain a broader perspective on how classical thought continues to shape contemporary ideas and scholarship.
With small class sizes and individualized instruction, students benefit from a personalized learning experience that fosters strong analytical, linguistic and critical thinking skills. Whether pursuing careers in education, law, medicine, ministry or research, Greek students graduate with a unique and highly transferable skill set that prepares them for a wide range of professional and academic opportunities.
Objectives and Curriculum
As a Greek major you can travel to Greece with experienced faculty guides, develop the language skills to explore the ancient world through the words of its original chroniclers and engage with the ideas that are the foundation of western culture.
Is This Program for Me?
Greek majors are curious about how the ancient past created our present. They have aptitude in language. They love to explore other countries and cultures. They recognize that study of Greek language and ancient cultures provides significant advantages in many careers.
What Makes Us Different?
Samford’s Greek professors are passionate about sharing their knowledge and experience, and work closely with students in small classroom settings and in the field, exploring the remains of ancient Greece and revealing how that culture continues to shape our own. They are uniquely qualified to explain the influence of ancient cultures on the development of Christianity, providing an essential historical foundation for personal faith and professional calling to ministry. Because travel is essential to the complete classics education, we offer the Mae E. Flynt Travel Scholarship to help students participate in Classics Department programs in Greece and Italy.
Career Preparation
Market Ready
The Greek major’s emphasis on language, history, travel and the foundational ideas and values of western culture is outstanding preparation for careers in education, ministry, history, archaeology, political science, law, philosophy and religion. You may choose to combine a Greek major with a major in religion, philosophy, pre-law, history, political science or any other undergraduate major to tailor your education to your specific career goals.
Career Opportunities
Greek majors are well prepared to pursue graduate studies and careers in that subject and in classics, language, history, archaeology, political science, law, philosophy and religion.
