Latin

The languages of the ancient world have much to teach us about our own lives. Modern customs, philosophy, art, literature, and language all hold roots in ancient Greece and Rome.

By studying classical Greek or Latin, you will be able to read literature of lasting influence in its original form, and relate it to today's world. You will also be introduced to a variety of related areas such as archaeology, history, mythology, philosophy, and religion. An even more comprehensive view of the ancient cultures is provided in the classical humanities major, described in a separate brochure on the humanities.

Offered through the Department of Classics, the majors in Greek and Latin feature classes that are small and highly individualized. No more than 20 students are in introductory classes, and upper-level classes have fewer than 10 students. For all Greek and Latin majors, knowledge of at least one other foreign language is recommended.

Study abroad offers opportunities to observe first-hand some of the art and architecture discussed in classes and to relate your Greek and Latin studies to other cultures.

Outside the classroom, Greek and Latin majors can participate in the national honorary Eta Sigma Phi, which annually sponsors lectures, films, picnics, and field trips to area museums. The American Classical League, a national association headquartered at Miami, provides reference materials and a placement service for classics teachers. The Oxford Society of the Archaeological Institute of America provides an annual lecture series.

Program Strengths at Miami

Because Miami's programs in Greek and Latin are specifically for undergraduates, we can focus our attention on these students. And while most undergraduate programs at other Midwestern universities may only have one or two faculty members, Miami's department is large in comparison, with seven faculty who bring diverse strengths and interests, illustrated by courses such as "Old Age and Antiquity," "Women and Antiquity," "Justice and Law," and "Race and Ethnicity."

After You Graduate

Because courses in Greek and Latin emphasize the development of skills in close reading and effective writing, graduates of these programs are well suited to any career requiring analytical thought and communication. Journalism, library science, publishing, and business are some fields which employ classics graduates. Those who have additional proficiency in a modern language are strong candidates for positions in international business and diplomacy.

Combining language studies with another major or minor is a way of broadening perceptions and career opportunities. For example, future teachers are encouraged to obtain certification in a second area taught in high school, such as English, science, math, or another foreign language.

Many language majors take advantage of our teacher certification program and work in public and private schools. Latin majors interested in teaching are finding excellent employment prospects. Two recent national surveys have found that high schools' interest in the subject has risen dramatically, while the number of certified teachers has dropped. The result is shortages of Latin teachers, particularly in Texas, Virginia, Florida, and most northeastern states.

Other Greek and Latin majors go on to professional schools in law, business, medicine, and religion. Advanced work in specific areas of classics, such as classical philology or comparative literature, is another option selected by some graduates.

Foreign Languages at Miami

We live in a global society. As formerly isolated countries open up and organizations expand internationally, you need an education which gives you a global perspective. One way you can prepare is by studying foreign languages. At Miami, you not only learn to read, write, and speak the language, but you study the literature, history, and worldwide influence of the culture.

Studying a foreign language is also an important part of your overall humanities education at Miami. It can develop your communication skills, it can help you see how language shapes our society, and it can help you understand and appreciate other cultures. And it may also make you more marketable in your job search because as nations and world markets develop, government, businesses, and social service agencies need employees who are proficient in other languages.

You may be eligible for credit through advanced placement examinations. Check with the departments for details.

Miami's Advantages

Communicate internationally: You can view important events from around the world on SCOLA (Satellite Communications for Learning), the international news programming network which is part of Miami's academic cable television system. You also have access to international e-mail networks and bulletin boards through Netscape.

Expand your career options: The foreign language majors at Miami are designed to allow you to complete a second major within four years. This broadens your education as well as your career possibilities.

Use our high-tech lab: Miami's language lab has an impressive variety of technical aids for your independent study. In the individual station area, each of the 40 booths has a monitor, VCR, and cassette player so you can work on your oral comprehension and pronunciation, watch a foreign language film, or view a news broadcast from a foreign television station via SCOLA. Lab managers can assist you by taping broadcasts, translating tapes from other formats into ones usable in the lab, and guiding your use of the language word processing programs.

In the lab, computer equipment includes Macintoshes and pc's, a full-page scanner, and a printer. Laser disk players are attached to some computers so you can work on learning materials, develop multimedia presentations, or watch foreign films. Some computers have fonts for Russian or Japanese alphabets. We also have video editing equipment for faculty and student projects.

Other Language Programs

We offer majors in French, German, classical Greek, Latin, Russian, and Spanish. You can also choose from minors in French, German, Italian, Japanese, Russian, and Spanish, and courses in Chinese, classical Hebrew, and Portuguese.

For More Information

For general information about Miami University, please contact:

Office of Admission
301 S. Campus Ave.
Miami University
Oxford, OH 45056-3434
513-529-2531 (v/t)
www.muohio.edu/requestinfo

For specific information on the Latin major, please contact:

Department of Spanish and Portuguese
Miami University
Oxford, Ohio 45056
513-529-1480
www.muohio.edu/spanport