Latin gives you a better understanding of English grammar and other European languages, especially the Romance languages that come from Latin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Latin or Greek to satisfy the general education language requirement?
Yes! Receiving credit for LATN 203 or GREK 203 fulfills the Gen Ed Language Requirement. We offer at least one section of LATN 101, 102, and 203 every semester; GREK 101 and 203 in fall and 102 in spring. Find further information on our website (Home -> Undergraduate -> Placement in Latin and Greek Courses).
Latin is a dead language. What’s the point of studying it?
Studying Latin will significantly improve skills in reading, analysis, and writing. Latin gives you a better understanding of the grammar that underlies English and other European languages, especially the Romance languages that come from Latin (Spanish, French, Italian); it will also enhance your understanding of English vocabulary, since so many of our words derive from Latin. Weekly reading groups are available during the academic year.
What kinds of things can I read and study if I take Latin?
Because Latin was a living language for some 2,000 years, knowledge of Latin allows you to read an amazing range of literary, historical, philosophical, and scientific works in their original form, from Vergil’s Aeneid to Isaac Newton’s Mathematical Principles of Natural Philosophy. Even today, Latin continues to be all around us: E Pluribus Unum, Esse Quam Videri, Lux Libertas. I took the online Latin placement test.
Am I stuck with my placement?
No! The result of the online placement test is a recommendation. If you have questions, contact our Director of Undergraduate Studies or the Directors of Elementary and Intermediate Latin Program (contact information on our website: Home -> About Us -> Administration & Contacts).