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If you are wondering whether to use curricula or curriculums, you are not alone. This is a common question for educators, students, and writers alike. Because the word “curriculum” has its roots in Latin, its pluralization follows specific linguistic rules that have evolved over time.
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The Two Plural Forms: Curricula vs. Curriculums
The short answer is that both “curricula” and “curriculums” are correct. However, they are used in different contexts and have different levels of acceptance depending on the style guide you follow.
- Curricula: This is the traditional Latin plural. It is generally preferred in academic, scientific, and formal writing.
- Curriculums: This is the anglicized plural. It follows the standard English rule of adding “-s” to the end of a word. It is becoming increasingly common in casual conversation and less formal journalism.
Latin Origins and Etymology
The word curriculum comes from the Latin word meaning “a running” or “a course” (derived from currere, meaning “to run”). In Latin, second-declension neuter nouns ending in -um are pluralized by changing the ending to -a.
| Singular (Latin) | Plural (Latin) | English Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Curriculum | Curricula | Course(s) of study |
| Datum | Data | Piece(s) of information |
| Medium | Media | Means of communication |
| Bacterium | Bacteria | Microorganism(s) |
When to Use Each Form
Choosing between the two depends largely on your audience and the region you are in.
Academic and Professional Settings
In the United States and the United Kingdom, “curricula” remains the dominant choice for educational theorists and administrators. If you look at job descriptions for “Curriculum Developers,” you will almost always see the plural written as “curricula.”
Regional Preferences
While “curricula” is the global standard for formal English, “curriculums” is slightly more common in American English than in British English, as American English tends to anglicize foreign loanwords more quickly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Because the word is tricky, there are a few common errors that writers should watch out for:
- Curriculas – This is an incorrect “double plural.” Since “curricula” is already plural, adding an “s” is redundant and wrong.
- Curriculum’s – This indicates possession, not plurality.
Correct: “The curriculum’s goals are clear.” (The goals of one curriculum).
Correct: “The curricula of both schools are similar.” (Plural).
Examples in Sentences
Formal: “The university committee is reviewing the curricula of the science and arts departments to ensure they meet new accreditation standards.”
Informal: “Many homeschoolers design their own curriculums based on their children’s specific interests.”
Technical: “Cross-curricular activities are designed to bridge the gaps between different curricula.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is “curriculums” a real word?
Yes, “curriculums” is a legitimate English word recognized by major dictionaries like Merriam-Webster and Oxford. It is the anglicized plural of the Latin loanword.
Which plural is used in the term “Curriculum Vitae”?
The plural of Curriculum Vitae (CV) is Curricula Vitae. In this case, “curricula” is pluralized, but “vitae” (of life) remains the same. You should never say “Curriculum Vitaes.”
Can I use “curriculum” as a plural?
No. “Curriculum” is strictly singular. You must use either “curricula” or “curriculums” when referring to more than one.
Quick Quiz: Test Your Knowledge
Which sentence is grammatically correct for a formal academic report?
A) We need to update the school’s curriculas.
B) The various curricula were compared by the board.
C) Each curriculum’s are different.
Answer: B (Option A uses a double plural, and Option C uses a singular possessive with a plural verb).
