Latin

The Latin Program at the University of Iowa offers a comprehensive and rigorous exploration of the Latin language, literature, and culture. Designed for students interested in the classical traditions that have shaped Western civilization, this program provides a deep understanding of Latin grammar, syntax, and vocabulary, enabling students to read and interpret original Latin texts with confidence. The curriculum combines language instruction with the study of ancient Roman history, philosophy, poetry, and prose, allowing students to gain contextual knowledge and appreciate the literary achievements of the Roman civilization.

Students in the Latin Program have opportunities to engage with both classical and medieval Latin texts, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills. The program emphasizes the development of advanced reading comprehension, translation skills, and familiarity with Latin literature's stylistic and thematic diversity. Courses are designed to suit various skill levels, from beginners to advanced scholars, and include practical language classes, reading seminars, and cultural courses that highlight the influence of Latin on the development of European languages, law, theology, and the arts.

The program also encourages participation in research projects, internships, and study abroad experiences that focus on Latin language and Roman history. Students are prepared for diverse careers in academia, education, law, public service, and more, where knowledge of Latin and classical studies is valued. With experienced faculty dedicated to fostering a vibrant intellectual community, the Latin Program at the University of Iowa aims to cultivate a deep appreciation for classical antiquity and develop linguistic proficiency that will serve students throughout their academic and professional lives.

• Elementary Latin I
• Elementary Latin II
• World of Cicero
• Golden Age of Roman Poetry
• Latin Literature of the Republic I
• Latin Literature of the Republic II
• Latin Literature of the Empire I
• Latin Literature of the Empire II
• Elementary Latin Composition
• Private Assignments
• Honors Readings
• Republican Literature
• Imperial Literature
• Augustan Rome
• Tiberius to Trajan
• Republican Rome
• Later Empire
• Advanced Latin Composition
• Graduate Pedagogy
• Latin Thesis
• Advanced Reading

Requirements

• A U.S. bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university, or an equivalent degree from another country as determined by the Office of Admissions
• A minimum grade-point average (GPA) of 3.00, or foreign equivalent as determined by the Office of Admissions.
• You must first submit the online application to the Graduate College and pay the $60 application fee by credit card ($100 for international applicants).
• Application for Graduate Awards
• A statement of purpose
• A list of Latin works you have read in the original language
• A writing sample (five to 10 pages)
• A score of 550 or higher on the TOEFL paper-based (PBT) version of the test, or a score of 81 or higher on the Internet-based version of the test (iBT).
• A total IELTS score of 7.0, with no subscore less than 6.0.
• Three letters of recommendation
• Once recommended for admission, international students must send a Financial Statement.

The University of Iowa offers comprehensive financing options for students enrolled in its Latin studies program. Undergraduate students commonly utilize federal financial aid programs, including the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which provides access to grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. The financial aid office at the university assists students in navigating these options and offers personalized guidance to maximize aid packages. Institutional scholarships are also available specifically for students pursuing classical languages, including Latin, based on academic merit, financial need, or both. Additionally, the university provides departmental scholarships that recognize excellence in classical studies, which students can apply for through the departmental office.

Students may also consider private scholarships from external organizations dedicated to the promotion of classical education and Latin studies, many of which require separate applications and essays. The university's financial services department collaborates with students to establish manageable payment plans, reducing the burden of tuition fees. For graduate students, assistantships and fellowships are available, offering tuition remission and stipends in exchange for teaching or research duties related to Latin or classical studies. International students benefit from similar federal aid options and sometimes have access to specific scholarships aimed at fostering global diversity and inclusion within the program.

The cost of attendance for Latin studies at the University of Iowa varies depending on residency status, program level, and living arrangements, but overall, the university strives to maintain affordable tuition through various financial aid programs. Many students finance their education through a combination of federal aid, institutional scholarships, personal savings, and private funding sources. The university strongly encourages prospective and current students to consult with the financial aid office early in their academic planning to explore all available options and develop a comprehensive funding strategy that supports successful completion of the Latin program.

The University of Iowa offers a comprehensive Latin language program designed to provide students with a deep understanding of classical Latin language, literature, and culture. This program aims to develop students' proficiency in Latin grammar, vocabulary, and syntax, enabling them to read and interpret original Latin texts with confidence. The curriculum includes courses that cover fundamental aspects of Latin language acquisition, including introductory levels for beginners, as well as advanced courses focusing on classical texts, historical contexts, and literary analysis.

Students enrolled in the Latin program have the opportunity to explore a wide range of classical literature, including works of Cicero, Virgil, Ovid, and other renowned Roman authors. The program emphasizes both linguistic skills and cultural literacy, helping students appreciate the historical and cultural significance of Latin in Western civilization. In addition to language courses, the program often encompasses courses in Roman history, philosophy, and literature, providing a holistic understanding of the ancient world.

The University of Iowa supports students through various resources such as dedicated language laboratories, access to a rich collection of classical texts, and opportunities for research and coursework in classical studies. Students are encouraged to participate in undergraduate research projects, internships, and study abroad programs that focus on classical civilization. The program fosters critical thinking, analytical skills, and an appreciation for classical scholarship, preparing students for careers in education, research, publishing, archaeology, and related fields.

Degree options in Latin at the University of Iowa typically include a Bachelor of Arts with a major or minor in Classics or Latin. The program also collaborates with other departments to offer interdisciplinary courses that connect Latin language and literature to fields such as history, philosophy, and art history. Graduates of the program emerge with a solid foundation in classical languages, a nuanced understanding of Roman culture, and valuable skills applicable in various academic and professional contexts.

Overall, the Latin program at the University of Iowa is designed for students passionate about classical antiquity, providing rigorous academic training, cultural insights, and practical language skills that serve as a foundation for further study or diverse career pathways in humanities and beyond.