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Ancient Studies Institute

Discover a Passion for the Ancient World

Program Overview

Who were the people of the ancient world, and how did they live, think, and create meaning in their daily lives? In the Ancient Studies Institute, you will explore the ancient Mediterranean and beyond through literature, history, art, religion, and material culture. While the specific theme will vary from year to year, the institute invites you to examine the many ways ancient societies shaped the world we live in today.

Through close reading, discussion, interactive activities, and creative and critical projects, you will investigate major questions about ancient civilizations: how people organized their communities, expressed their beliefs, recorded their histories, and imagined their place in the world. Along the way, you will develop skills in analysis, research, and interpretation while gaining a deeper appreciation for the complexity and diversity of ancient cultures.

This program is ideal for students who are curious about the ancient world and eager to strengthen their critical thinking skills in a collaborative, engaging academic setting.

Dates

The Ancient Studies Institute is a two-week, residential program offered from July 11-24, 2027.

Eligibility

To be eligible to apply for the Ancient Studies Institute, you should:

  • Be a current high school student graduating in 2030, 2029, or 2028.

We are looking for mature, academically motivated individuals enrolled in challenging curriculum which may include honors, advanced placement, and International Baccalaureate courses, if offered by their high schools. Individuals who are collaborative, intellectually curious, and creative thinkers thrive in our program.

Fees and Scholarships

The 2027 program fee for the Ancient Studies Institute is $4,185 which includes all program activities, housing, and meals. Need-based scholarship assistance is available. Children of WashU employees and returning participants are eligible for a 10% discount. Visit Fees & Scholarships to learn more about fees, need-based scholarships, and discounts.

Grading and Evaluation

Our summer institutes are ideal for individuals who want to experience college-level curriculum without the pressure of a letter grade. Class sizes are small (typically between 15-20 participants) to ensure personalized feedback from instructors. These programs are designed for participants to ask questions, collaborate with peers, and consider new ideas.

Although summer institutes are noncredit, they are rigorous. Participants are evaluated based on attendance and engagement in class activities, completion of assignments, quality of work produced, as well as their ability to adhere to academic integrity standards and program policies. Noncredit programs do not issue a traditional letter grade (A, B, C, D, F). Instead, you will receive an "L" for successful completion/audit or a "Z" for unsuccessful completion/audit. 

Because summer institutes are noncredit, no transferable credit is earned. At the end of the program, participants may request a transcript of noncredit course work. No certificates are issued for these programs.

Acceptance and participation in summer institute course work and activities does not imply or guarantee acceptance into a degree program at WashU. For questions about the undergraduate admission process, please contact Undergraduate Admissions.

Program Schedule

Morning Session

Participants start their day with breakfast and their morning session which meets from 10:00am-12:00pm. Morning sessions are a combination of traditional undergraduate classroom activities such as lectures, small group work, and discussion all lead by our WashU instructors.

Lunch Break

Participants have a break for lunch from 12:00-2:00pm. During this time, they can eat at any of the on campus dining options or return to the residence hall to prepare a meal. This time is also used for independent study at any of the 7 Danforth campus library branches open in the summer. We also offer optional help and academic skill building sessions over the lunch break.

Afternoon Session

Afternoon session begins at 2:00pm. These sessions typically included more individual work and application of content learned in the morning sessions. Instructors lead all afternoon session, working with participants and providing support for projects and assignments. The session wraps up by 4:00pm.

Evenings

Evenings are spent in optional enrichment activities and dinner. After dinner, community events provide the opportunity to reflect and relax at the end of a busy day.

Weekend

The weekend is spent socializing with peers and exploring our vibrant city of St. Louis. Optional outings will be organized by our staff, and there will be opportunities for participants to explore on their own as well.

Learn More About Our Programs

In addition to course work, you will participate in specialized college readiness, community, and academic success enrichment activities.

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How to Apply

In order to apply to the Ancient Studies Institute, you must complete an online application, including short essays, and submit the following supplemental information:

  • $50 nonrefundable application fee
  • Transcript
  • Teacher recommendation
  • International applicants for whom English is a second language should provide documentation of their ability to complete coursework in English by providing an official TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic, Duolingo English, or GATEWAY English score report. Visit International Students for additional guidelines for international applicants.

The deadline to submit an application and all supplemental information is April 1, 2027 at 4:00pm CT. You can preview the application process here.

Applications for 2027 will open December 1.

 

Questions about applying? 

Visit our Frequently Asked Questions