<p>I've planned on taking Latin for either three, or all four years. Do I need to take a modern language too to fit the lanuage requirements for certain universities (primarily Syracuse)? Does it matter that my language is dead or do I need one that is actually spoken?</p>
<p>I don't think Latin counts as a Modern Language. Do the universities you're looking at specifically state modern language or just any language?</p>
<p>Latin usually counts for language. My Ds school recommended taking L for all 4. I have never heard of a school specifying dead vs alive.</p>
<p>Ok. Thanks.</p>
<p>^ Well, I guess it depends on how your school defines 'Modern Language' and whether they put Latin as part of it. For example, I looked at my Swarthmore course catalog and they put Latin as part of 'Classics,' not Modern Languages. That's why I said that I didn't think it counts and that you should check with your university to check. Latin does count as a language, but I don't know about for a modern language.</p>
<p>Years ago several people told me that a kid's high school language needed to be a "modern language" (spoken, I presume) in order to fulfill college entrance requirements. That sounded really off to me. Well, I had one take Spanish and the other opted for Latin. Neither one had any problem with their choice as it pertains to college apps. I have never actually seen a college require a modern language over a classical one for purposes of high school preparation for college. I suppose such colleges exist, but truly I have never seen it in all the research I've done.</p>
<p>However, if Syracuse (or any other college you're interested in) specifically says "modern language", then I'd go with a modern language just to be safe. If it just says "foreign language", then take Latin if that's what interests you.</p>
<p>Ok, thanks again. :)</p>
<p>This is from someone who has taken 2.25 units of college-level Latin and will be taking his third during his upcoming senior year:</p>
<p>I've never seen a college that required a "modern foreign language." Doing so would automatically disqualify a sizeable number of applicants. If anything, some schools might even be impressed that you took Latin. Many consider it to be a very difficult language (which isn't always true). Not to mention Latin is the only langauge that is proven to increase your standardized tests scores in both verbal and math. Trust me, it's worth taking!</p>
<p>Math too...</p>
<p>Hmmmm...
I like that!</p>
<p>Thanks!</p>