Program Overview
In an industrialized world, very few of us ever stop to wonder about the processes that turn raw fiber into our daily clothes. However, for most of human history textile production made up the constant daily work of much of the population.
In this summer's Ancient Studies Institute, you will learn how the peoples of the ancient Mediterranean turned sheep and flax into cloaks and sails. Not only will you read a rich diversity of primary and secondary sources – from the Homeric poems to Socratic dialogues to cutting edge archaeological chemical analysis – you will put each new skill into practice in the studio. Over the course of two weeks, you will learn how to spin yarn, dye fiber, and weave cloth, eventually producing as a group an original textile made through ancient techniques. Through the lens of fiber, you will encounter the different ways that classicists and ancient historians find meaning in the surviving evidence. Along the way you will explore the sociocultural dimension of fiber work, especially its long history as the work of women and enslaved people.
No previous experience required. If you are willing to get your hands dirty and excited to learn about the ancient world, this is the institute for you!
Dates
The Ancient Studies Institute is a two-week, residential program offered from July 12-25, 2026.
Eligibility
To be eligible to apply for the Ancient Studies Institute, you should:
- Be a current high school student graduating in 2029, 2028, or 2027.
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 2026 program fee for the Ancient Studies Institute is $3,985 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.
