Course Information
Although we do not offer a minor in classical Greek, the Interdisciplinary Humanities major and minor programs offer students with an interest in Classical Greek (or Latin) the option of selecting a concentration in Classical Studies. Advanced courses are taken through a variety of departments in the College of Arts and Sciences, which are taught in English.
The Classical Studies minor (Option 1) requires classical Greek (or Latin) 101-201 and makes 202 one of the choices from a list of lower-division courses. With the prior permission of the director, Greek 294, 394, 494 and 499 may be counted toward the requirements.
Those students who have studied Greek previously should take the Placement Exam to be placed in the right class. Students with a strong background in Greek are offered the opportunity to take the Competency Exam in lieu of 201. Please check the Language Placement Guide page before enrolling in your first classical Greek class at USD or elsewhere.
Courses
GREK 101
First Semester Greek
Units: 3
Introduction to Classical (Attic) Greek. The fundamentals of morphology, syntax, and vocabulary, with emphasis on the use of the language as it appears in the literature of fifth century Athens and the Bible. Study of English vocabulary derived from Greek. Prerequisites: Placement Exam or Waiver of Placement. Every Fall.
GREK 102
Second Semester Greek
Units: 3
A continuation of GREK 101. Further study of morphology and syntax of Classical (Attic) Greek. Easier readings excerpted from the writings of Aesop and Apollodorus, as well as extended passages from the New Testament. Prerequisites: GREK 101 or equivalent, or Placement Exam. Every Spring.
GREK 140
Topics in Greek Literature and Culture
Units: 3
Study at the lower-division level of a topic in Greek literature and culture. This course is taught in English and will not satisfy the Language Core requirement.
GREK 194
Special Topics in Classical Greek
Units: 1 TO 3
Study at the lower-division level of a topic in Classical Greek literature and culture. This course is taught in English and will not satisfy the Language Core requirement.
GREK 201
Third Semester Greek
Units: 3
Review and further study of grammar and vocabulary of Classical (Attic) Greek. Readings taken from the writings of Xenophon, Herodotus, and the Bible. Introduction to the epic poetry of Homer. Prerequisites: GREK 102 or equivalent, or Placement Exam.
GREK 202
Fourth Semester Greek
Units: 3
Introduction to Classical Greek literature and composition. This course introduces the student to a variety of classical, biblical, and early Christian authors through graded readings. In addition, students will learn to write simple Greek prose to strengthen their skill in mastering the complicated inflections and syntax of language. Prerequisites: GREK 201, or equivalent or Placement Exam. Every Spring.
GREK 294
Special Topics in Classical Greek
Units: 1 TO 3
Study at the lower-division level of a special topic in language, literature, or culture. When offered, selected subjects will be announced on the MySanDiego portal. Consult with instructor or the department chair. If taught in English, this course will not fulfill the Core Curriculum language requirement. Consult with instructor or the department chair. Prerequisite: GREK 202, or equivalent.
GREK 299
Independent Study
Units: 3
Independent study at the lower-division level. Prerequisites: Approval of instructor, department chair, and dean.
GREK 394
Special Topics in Classical Greek
Units: 1 TO 3
Study at the third-year level of a special topic in Classical Greek language, literature, or culture. When offered, selected subjects will be announced on the MySanDiego portal. Consult with instructor or the department chair. If taught in English, this course will not fulfill the Core Curriculum language requirement. Consult with instructor or the department chair. Prerequisite: GREK 202, or equivalent.
GREK 493
Field Experience
Units: 1 TO 3
Placement in a community agency where advanced Greek language skills will be utilized. Prerequisites: Junior or senior class standing and approval of the department chair.
GREK 494
Special Topics in Classical Greek
Units: 1 TO 3
Study at the fourth-year level of a special topic in Classical Greek language, literature, or culture. When offered, selected subjects will be announced on the MySanDiego portal. Consult with instructor or the department chair. If taught in English, this course will not fulfill the Core Curriculum language requirement. Consult with instructor or the department chair. Prerequisites: Varies according to course topic
GREK 499
Independent Study
Units: 1 TO 3
A program arranged between the advanced student and the instructor to provide intensive study in a particular area of interest. Extensive reading and consultation are required, as well as preparation of reports to be assigned by the instructor. Prerequisites: Approval of the instructor and the department chair. May be taken for credit each time topic changes.