The program aims to encourage students to study the Classical world of Greece and Rome broadly, deeply, and through a variety of disciplines.  Students will be encouraged to study broadly across the field of classical antiquity, defined as the Greco-Roman world from the Aegean Bronze Age (3rd millennium BC) to the transition from late antiquity to the early medieval period (1000 AD).  Students will specialise within this large subject, but all will emerge with a general understanding across the whole period.  Their studies will gain focus by having three-quarters of their courses associated with the classical world, and this concentration will allow them to understand the classical world via a variety of disciplinary approaches.  All students in the degree will learn at least one of the classical languages; all will study ancient literature and culture; all will study ancient history; and many will engage with other disciplines, such as archaeology or art history.

A period of overseas study is expected, unless the program convener grants an exemption.  The opportunity to engage directly with at least one part of the classical world and to visit archaeological sites and key museums is a very important part of the training of a student in this area.  This overseas study may be part of an approved ANU summer course, or an exchange of up to one semester with an approved partner.