WHY STUDY LATIN?
Latin is both a classical language and a liturgical language, meaning that it is used in both ancient, historical, and religious contexts. Greek, Latin, Chinese, Arabic and Sanskrit are all considered classical languages! Latin is the basis for the five romance languages French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese and Romanian[1]. These languages are all forms of Latin and have changed and evolved over time in various regions. Studying Latin is also widely beneficial for students who are studying English, since over two-thirds of our vocabulary are derived from Latin, along with 80-90% of polysyllabic words, students will be able to expand and better understand the English language.
Latin can be exceedingly helpful for many future careers including law, medicine, science, music, theology, philosophy, art and literature. Since medical terminology, most derived directly from Latin, is essential for everything in the medical field, learning Latin is extremely helpful for those who intend to become researchers, doctors, and other medical/health professionals [2]. "According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, students who major or double-major in Classics have a better success rate of getting into medical school than students who concentrate solely in biology, microbiology, and other branches of science."[3]
Studying Latin can also help to maximize LSAT scores. According to The National Jurist, "The law school applicants with the highest grade point averages and LSAT studied classics in college." Not everyone in the law profession knows Latin but they do know many Latin words. To garner a competitive edge and a more well rounded approach, it would be a great asset to study Latin during your undergraduate studies!
LATIN AT THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON
Here at the University of Akron students will learn to value the Latin language, culture, history and themselves as individuals. We offer a wide variety of courses to fit all learners. Those with previous Latin study should consider contacting the Department before enrolling into courses so that they may be advised on which level would be best for them!
No prior experience, no problem! Students can enroll in Beginning Latin I and continue their study through the Intermediate levels!