What does syllabus mean?
A syllabus is a detailed outline of what a course, programme of study, or examination covers. It commonly lists subjects, topics, learning objectives, reading requirements, assessment methods, and important dates, although its exact contents vary by institution. The word is especially associated with schools, universities, professional training, and formal examinations. In everyday academic contexts, students consult a syllabus to understand course expectations and prepare for assessments. Although a syllabus and a curriculum are sometimes used interchangeably, they generally have different scopes: a curriculum represents the broader educational framework, while a syllabus specifies the content and requirements of a particular course or test. The word comes from Latin and ultimately from Greek, where related forms referred to a collection or summary.
nounAn outline or statement of the topics, aims, and requirements of a course, programme of study, or examination.
- An outline or statement of the topics, aims, and requirements of a course, programme of study, or examination.
- A formal list or summary of the subjects or topics included in a field of study or curriculum.
"The course syllabus covers the principles of statistics and their application in research."
"Students should read the syllabus before attending the first lecture."
"The examination board has revised its syllabus to include more contemporary examples."
Syllabuses is the standard plural in general usage; syllabi is also widely used in academic and professional settings.
"The school has published updated syllabuses for its autumn courses."
The word comes from Greek and originally referred to a written summary that brought together the principal points of a subject.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does syllabus come from?
The English word syllabus comes from Latin syllabus, a form of the Greek σύλλαβος, meaning “a taking together” or “a collection.” The Greek term was associated with a written summary or collection of material. It entered English in the 17th century and originally referred to a brief explanation or outline of a subject. Its modern educational meaning developed as courses and examinations became more formally organized.
Related word forms
How syllabus is actually used
The plural is usually syllabuses. Syllabi is also used, especially in academic and professional contexts, but syllabuses is the standard general form. A syllabus normally presents the scope and requirements of a course, whereas a curriculum describes a wider educational programme.
Easily confused with syllabus
A curriculum is the overall body of subjects or educational aims, while a syllabus is a detailed outline of the topics covered in a particular course or examination.