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
Washington, D.C
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.A. in Greek at The Catholic University of America is a specialized graduate program designed to provide students with intensive training in the ancient Greek language and its vast literary tradition. This program is particularly suited for individuals interested in the history of the eastern Mediterranean world, from antiquity through the Middle Ages, including areas like Byzantine studies or the history of Eastern Christianity. It aims to develop highly skilled readers and researchers of Greek texts, preparing them for advanced academic work or careers requiring profound linguistic and analytical capabilities.
Curriculum: The M.A. in Greek is a 30-credit-hour program, typically consisting of ten graduate-level courses. Key requirements include "Greek Prose Composition" (GR 511) and "Survey of Greek Literature" (GR 655). Students then select eight other approved courses to complete their credits. While the study of Latin is not mandatory, the department permits and often encourages its inclusion if it aligns with a student's individual academic goals. A reading knowledge of either French or German is also required and must be demonstrated through examination. The program culminates in comprehensive examinations in Greek, which include both written essays on Greek literature and history, and sight-translation exams from Greek texts. Additionally, degree candidates must submit two substantial research papers for faculty review.
Research Focus: The Department of Greek and Latin at Catholic University cultivates a rich research environment that spans over two millennia of ancient and medieval history, literature, archaeology, and art. The M.A. in Greek specifically emphasizes the study of Greek language and literature from Homeric times through late antiquity and the Byzantine period. Faculty research interests in the broader department are diverse and include areas such as classical Greek history, early Christianity, patristics, and post-classical Greek literature. Students are encouraged to engage in rigorous textual analysis and independent research, often utilizing the department's specialized library and archaeological collection, and contributing to scholarly discourse on the Greek world.
Industry Engagement: As a deeply academic and specialized humanities program, the M.A. in Greek does not typically engage with "industry" in a commercial sense. Its primary "engagement" is within the academic and scholarly communities. This involves active participation in scholarly conferences, contributions to academic publications, and collaborations with other academic and research institutions. The program's core objective is to prepare students for academic careers as professors, teachers, or researchers. However, the intensive training in linguistic analysis, critical thinking, research methodologies, and clear communication cultivates a set of highly transferable skills that are valued across a range of professional fields. The university's location in Washington D.C. also provides access to significant research resources like the Library of Congress, which indirectly supports professional development.
Global Perspective: The M.A. in Greek inherently offers a profound global perspective by focusing on a language and culture that profoundly influenced Western civilization and the broader Mediterranean and Near Eastern worlds. The program delves into the literature, history, and thought of ancient Greece, extending its scope to include the Byzantine Empire and the history of Eastern Christianity. This involves examining the interactions and influences between Greek culture and other ancient and medieval civilizations. By studying original Greek texts, students gain direct insight into diverse cultural expressions, philosophical traditions, and historical developments that shaped a vast geographical and intellectual landscape over centuries. The program's emphasis on areas like Byzantine studies further solidifies its global and historical reach.
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 develop an exceptional command of the ancient Greek language, advanced textual analysis skills, rigorous critical thinking, and the ability to conduct in-depth historical and literary research. While many pursue further doctoral study, these highly specialized and transferable skills are valuable in various professional fields.
University Professor/Lecturer (typically requires a Ph.D.): Teaching Greek language, literature, ancient history, or related fields at the university level, and contributing to scholarly research. The M.A. serves as a strong foundation for doctoral programs.
Secondary School Teacher (Greek/Latin/Ancient History): Teaching ancient languages or history in private high schools or preparatory academies where classical education is valued. Additional certification might be required.
Archivist/Librarian (Special Collections): Managing, preserving, and providing access to historical documents, ancient manuscripts, and rare books, particularly those in Greek, within academic, seminary, or specialized research libraries. An additional Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) is often beneficial.
Translator/Editor (Specialized): Translating ancient Greek texts for academic publications, religious organizations, or for specialized historical and linguistic projects. Also, editing scholarly works related to classical and Byzantine studies.
Museum Curator/Researcher: Contributing to the research, interpretation, and exhibition of artifacts and historical periods related to ancient Greece, Byzantium, or early Christianity in museums or cultural institutions.
Religious Educator/Catechist: Developing and teaching curricula on early Christian history, patristics, or Byzantine spirituality within religious institutions, leveraging direct knowledge of Greek texts.
Academic Administrator (Humanities Focus): Working in university administration roles, particularly in departments related to humanities, research, or graduate studies, leveraging organizational and communication skills.
Digital Humanities Specialist: Applying digital tools and methodologies to ancient Greek texts, manuscripts, or historical data for research, preservation, or public access initiatives.
Journalist/Writer (Cultural/Historical Topics): Writing articles, books, or online content for publications focused on history, archaeology, religion, or cultural heritage, utilizing strong research and narrative skills.
Genealogical or Historical Researcher: Conducting in-depth research for individuals, organizations, or media productions seeking to understand historical lineages, cultural roots, or the history of specific ancient and medieval communities with Greek connections.
