ZenoTheStoic

Hi guys, Currently, I'm a master's History student at an Ivy, looking to hopefully change directions and get accepted into a classics Ph.D (specifically classical archaeology). But, in doing my due diligence, there is an issue that I want to rectify to give myself the best shot at acceptance. Simply put, my languages are lacking. I have some basic UG in Latin and Greek, and some HS German, but looking over the requirements, I know that I'm severely lacking in these departments, but I'm committed enough to try to improve my weaknesses. My question is, are admissions officers from these top schools (Not saying I'll get in, but I have to shoot for it) looking for language proficiency, or are they looking for college-based language proficiency. What I mean by that is, if I go out and buy the Rosetta Stone Latin, and start working through it, or find a local class or tutor, will that change my interest as a candidate to schools, or do I need need something credit based? Even credit based wouldn't be terrible, but for obvious reasons, would require a much larger monetary commitment, something I wouldn't want to undertake unless I absolutely needed to. Thanks in advance, and I appreciate all the info you guys have on the forum. It makes decisions and planning that much easier.