Latin is so much more than simply a foreign language. It is part of the foundation and fabric of the Western Tradition. You will learn about many aspects of Roman civilization and culture, and of Rome’s influence on the West, which is still very much alive and relevant today. Some of the personalities you will meet include Achilles, Hector, Aeneas, the Cyclops, Cincinnatus, Cicero, Julius Caesar, Antony and Cleopatra, Augustus, and the poets Virgil and Horace.

Here are some more great reasons to learn Latin:

  • Word power. Knowing Latin enriches your English vocabulary, since about 60% of English words, and 90% of words with 3 or more syllables, are derived from Latin.
  • Higher test scores. Knowing Latin can substantially increase your verbal score on standardized tests like the MCAT, LSAT, PCAT, and GRE.
  • Writing skills. Learning Latin helps you to understand English grammar, which will improve the quality of your writing.
  • A competitive edge. Most legal and many medical terms are Latin words. Knowing the meanings of habeas corpus, pro bono, and nil per oswill give you a competitive edge in fields such as law, medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and dentistry.