M.A. in Early Christian Studies
The M.A. in Early Christian Studies at The Catholic University of America is an interdi...
M.A. in Greek & Latin
Washington, D.C
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.A. in Greek & Latin at The Catholic University of America provides comprehensive and rigorous training in the classical languages and their literatures. This graduate program emphasizes building a strong foundation in ancient Greek and Latin, extending from Homeric texts through late antiquity and the medieval period. It aims to develop highly competent readers and researchers, making it an excellent preparation for further doctoral study in Classics or related humanities fields, or for careers where profound linguistic and analytical skills are paramount. The program benefits from its unique focus on the Christian aspects of Greek and Latin literature, distinguishing it from many other Classics programs in North America.
Curriculum: The M.A. in Greek & Latin is a 30-credit-hour program, typically comprising ten graduate-level courses divided between the two languages. Core components include courses in Greek Prose Composition (GR 511) and Latin Prose Composition (LAT 511), along with surveys of Greek and Latin Literature (GR 655, LAT 655). Students take an additional six approved courses. A crucial requirement is demonstrating reading knowledge of either French or German through examination. The program culminates in M.A. comprehensive examinations in both Greek and Latin, which are preceded by sight-translation exams. Additionally, degree candidates must submit two substantial research papers for faculty review.
Research Focus: The Department of Greek and Latin at Catholic University fosters a broad research environment, encompassing over two millennia of ancient and medieval history, literature, archaeology, and art. While the M.A. program provides strong classical foundations, the department's doctoral program, and by extension its research environment, has a special emphasis on the late antique period and post-classical Greek and Latin literature, including Christian Greek and Latin texts. Faculty research interests are diverse, ranging from medieval Latin texts to classical Greek history, Roman religion, early Christianity, and the rhetoric of cinema. Students are encouraged to engage in rigorous textual analysis and research, leveraging the department's specialized library and archaeological collection, and to contribute to the broader scholarly discourse.
Industry Engagement: As a deeply academic and specialized humanities program, the M.A. in Greek & Latin does not engage with "industry" in the commercial sense. Instead, its "engagement" is primarily within the academic and scholarly communities. This includes active participation in national and international Classics conferences, scholarly publications, and collaboration with other academic institutions. The department emphasizes preparing students for academic careers as professors, teachers, or researchers. However, the rigorous training in analysis, writing, and argumentation also cultivates highly transferable skills that are valued in diverse professional fields, and the department assists students in planning for careers outside of classics. The university's location in Washington D.C. also provides access to vast research resources like the Library of Congress and the Folger Shakespeare Library.
Global Perspective: The M.A. in Greek & Latin inherently offers a profound global perspective through its extensive study of ancient civilizations. It delves into the literature, history, and cultures of ancient Greece and Rome, and extends this exploration into the Middle Ages, examining the broader Mediterranean world and its interactions. The program's unique focus on Christian Greek and Latin literature further broadens this perspective, highlighting the enduring influence of classical traditions across diverse cultures and historical periods, including the Near East. The curriculum's embrace of a "long and inclusive" view of antiquity, coupled with collaboration with programs like Early Christian Studies and Medieval and Byzantine Studies, ensures that students gain a comprehensive understanding of cross-cultural intellectual and linguistic legacies that shaped Western and Near Eastern civilizations.
Location
Washington, D.C
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 16575
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 58 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
The Catholic University of America (CUA) offers a variety of scholarship opportunities to support international students in their pursuit of higher education. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need, making CUA an attractive destination for talented students from around the world.
Merit-Based Scholarships: CUA provides merit scholarships to international students based on their academic achievements and overall profile. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are often renewable each year, provided students maintain satisfactory academic performance. Scholarships are awarded automatically during the admission process or through a separate application depending on the program.
Need-Based Financial Aid: While need-based financial aid for international students is limited due to federal regulations, CUA offers institutional grants and assistance based on demonstrated financial need. International students are encouraged to provide comprehensive financial documentation to be considered for these awards.
Program-Specific Scholarships: Certain departments and colleges within CUA offer specialized scholarships for international students pursuing specific fields such as theology, law, engineering, or music. These awards often recognize outstanding talent or the discipline and may include research stipends or assistantships.
Graduate Assistantships and Fellowships: Graduate international students have access to assistantships and fellowships that provide tuition waivers and stipends in exchange for teaching, research, or administrative support. These opportunities not only help finance education but also provide valuable professional experience.
External Scholarships and Resources: CUA encourages international students to seek scholarships from external organizations, foundations, and government programs in their home countries. The university’s financial aid office provides guidance on identifying and applying for such opportunities.
Graduates of The Catholic University of America's M.A. in Greek & Latin develop a highly sophisticated and versatile skill set, including advanced linguistic proficiency, rigorous textual analysis, critical thinking, persuasive argumentation, historical research, and cultural interpretation. While often a stepping stone to further academic study, these transferable skills make graduates highly adaptable for a wide range of professional roles.
University Professor/Lecturer (typically requires a Ph.D.): Teaching and conducting research in Classics, Ancient History, Religious Studies, or related fields at the university level. The M.A. is a strong foundation for doctoral programs.
Secondary School Teacher (Latin/Greek/History): Teaching Latin, Greek, or ancient history in middle or high schools, often requiring additional teaching certification. There is a consistent demand for qualified Latin teachers.
Archivist/Librarian (Special Collections): Managing, preserving, and providing access to historical documents, rare books, and ancient manuscripts in academic, research, or specialized libraries. This often requires an additional Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS).
Editor/Publisher (Academic or Scholarly): Working with academic presses, journals, or specialized publishing houses, focusing on classical studies, ancient history, religious texts, or humanities publications.
Museum Curator/Researcher: Contributing to the research, interpretation, and exhibition of artifacts related to ancient Greece, Rome, or early Christianity in museums or cultural institutions.
Translator/Lexicographer: Specializing in the translation of ancient texts for various purposes, or working on dictionaries and linguistic resources for classical languages.
Lawyer/Paralegal (requires further professional education): The rigorous analytical and logical reasoning skills developed in Classics are highly valued in legal professions. Many Classics majors pursue law school.
Government Analyst/Intelligence (Cultural/Historical Focus): Applying analytical and research skills in government agencies (e.g., State Department, intelligence agencies) that deal with cultural affairs, historical contexts, or international relations where understanding ancient civilizations can be relevant.
Journalist/Writer (Specialized): Writing for publications that cover history, archaeology, religion, or cultural heritage, utilizing strong research, critical analysis, and compelling narrative skills.
Genealogical or Historical Researcher: Conducting in-depth research for individuals, institutions, or media productions seeking to understand historical lineages, cultural roots, or the history of specific ancient and medieval communities.
