The Transition of Harvard Diplomas: From Latin to English

Harvard University, one of the world's most prestigious institutions, made a significant change in 2018 that marked a departure from its long-standing tradition of issuing diplomas in Latin. This shift reflects a broader trend in modern educational institutions to make academic achievements more accessible and understandable to all. In this article, we explore the reasons behind this change, the historical context, and what it means for Harvard graduates.

Historical Context and the Tradition of Latin Diplomas

Harvard's tradition of issuing diplomas in Latin began in 1636, shortly after the founding of the university. Latin, as the classical language of academia, was seen as a symbol of intellectual rigor and prestige. However, as the years passed, the widespread use and understanding of Latin declined, leading to a growing disconnect between the language on the diploma and the actual needs and backgrounds of the graduates and their families.

The Decision to Transition to English Diplomas

In 2018, Harvard made the decision to issue diplomas entirely in English. This change was a direct response to the recognition that many graduates and their families did not have the ability or inclination to understand Latin. President Pusey's decision in 1961 to change the undergraduate degrees from Latin to English, reflecting the sentiment that it was no longer relevant, was a precursor to this larger shift.

The university's transition to English diplomas aimed to modernize its practices and better reflect the linguistic diversity of its student body. The change was not, however, universal across all programs. Some schools within Harvard, such as the Harvard Law School and the Harvard Medical School, may still use Latin on their diplomas in certain circumstances, although this is not the standard practice across the university as a whole.

The Lasting Legacy of Latin Diplomas

Despite the transition to English, Harvard's historical ties to Latin persist in various ways. Graduates of the undergraduate program still receive the degree title 'AB' (Artium Baccalaureus) instead of 'BA'. This decision was made by President Pusey in the 1960s, belying his own academic history and personal beliefs. Pusey, it should be noted, felt that it was hypocritical to require students to study a language that they would not be using themselves.

It's worth noting that the decision to change the diploma language was not without controversy. In the past, protests occurred when the university announced it would discontinue Latin diplomas. According to the late Rev. Peter Gomes, a chaplain at Harvard, a mob of undergraduates demonstrated outside the president's house. The president, then an unknown figure, addressed the group in Latin from a second-story window, presumably unaware of the irony of using a language that many did not understand. The group dispersed and returned to their dorms, perhaps feeling a bit more enlightened about the language barriers they faced.

This incident highlights the complexity of balancing tradition and practicality in academic institutions. While Latin remains a symbol of intellectual prestige, the practical consideration of inclusivity and accessibility cannot be overlooked.

Conclusion

Harvard's transition from Latin to English diplomas is a fascinating example of how institutions must evolve to meet the needs of their students and communities. The decision to continue using Latin in some programs reflects a nuanced understanding of the institution's rich history and the ongoing importance of classical languages. However, the move to English for the majority of graduates demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and modern relevance.