English Reference

Word

curricula

Phoneticscur·ric·u·la

US/kɝˈɪkjəˌɫɑ/

UK/kʌɹˈɪkjʊlɐ/

Definition

n. the plural form of curriculum. It refers to the group of subjects or the plan of study used in a school or college.

n. the plural form of curriculum; refers to the subjects comprising a course of study in a school or college. Often used when discussing the educational standards of multiple institutions or different academic departments.

Examples

“The school updated its curricula to include more technology classes.”

“Educational experts met to compare the science curricula used in different countries across Europe.”

“The university's decision to standardise curricula across all its international campuses met with resistance from faculty who preferred local academic autonomy.”

Examples

simple

“The school updated its curricula to include more technology classes.”

contextual

“Educational experts met to compare the science curricula used in different countries across Europe.”

complex

“The university's decision to standardise curricula across all its international campuses met with resistance from faculty who preferred local academic autonomy.”

Usage

Takes a plural verb. While 'curriculums' is also an accepted plural form, 'curricula' remains the standard in academic and formal writing.

Pitfall

The curricula is very difficult.

The curricula are very difficult.

Curricula is the plural form and requires a plural verb; use 'curriculum' for the singular.

Real-World Examples

Common in history and education writing

“These curricula teach production, branding, audience development and business skills with applications in communications and marketing.”
Phys.org · 14 Aug 2026
“Many schools are incorporating AI into their curricula in different ways.”
The Conversation · 7 Aug 2026

This entry

Level
C1 · Advanced
Frequency
Occasional
Updated

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English Reference