Bachelor of Arts in Languages, Literatures, & Cultures

Spanish

Spanish is one of the world’s most spoken languages—with about 500 million speakers. It is spoken in 44 countries, and the official language of 20 countries. The Spanish‑speaking world offers vibrant, diverse cultures shaped by Roman and Arabic influences in Spain and by Indigenous, African, and European traditions in the Americas.

This track immerses students in Spanish language, cultures, and literatures through courses in language, linguistics, translation, Latin American and Peninsular studies, and Transatlantic topics, with new offerings each semester.

Spanish for the Professions

Spanish is essential in many professional settings, from workplaces that rely on Spanish‑speaking communities to industries engaged in cross‑border collaboration. These environments need field‑specific language skills that bridge cultural gaps and strengthen communication, cohesion, and client or worker retention.

This track equips students with Spanish language and cultural training tailored to areas such as animal care, business, healthcare, and translation and interpreting. Alongside core competencies in language, literature, and cultural themes, students complete focused course sequences in the professional context of their choice.

This degree track can be completed as an accelerated option in 3-3.5 years.

French

French is a global powerhouse, spoken by 125 million people and used as a first or second language in 49 countries. It’s a major asset for work and travel, including within the U.S., where more than 4,600 French companies operate. French is also an official working language of the EU, UN, UNESCO, NATO, and the International Olympic Committee, and it’s highly valued by the Peace Corps.

This track offers dynamic courses in French language, Francophone literature and culture, linguistics, and professional applications such as business and translation.

German

German is Europe’s most widely spoken language and a key asset in global business, government, and cultural exchange. Both German and English are Indo-Germanic languages, affording students a ready grasp of the language, while simultaneously gaining a deeper understanding of English.

Students in this track explore language, literature, linguistics, culture, and applied fields, preparing for careers in education, international work, and public service. Faculty expertise spans German literature from the 18th to 21st centuries, film and visual culture, social and political history, and linguistics and translation.

Japanese

As a global leader in technology, politics, and renewable energy, Japan offers rich opportunities for international careers and cross‑cultural collaboration. Studying Japanese builds valuable professional skills, deepens cultural understanding, and sparks personal and intellectual growth.

Students in this track explore language, film, culture, and history, gaining a strong foundation for careers in education, business, government, and international work. Nihongo o benkyō shimashō! (Let’s study Japanese!)

American Sign Language (ASL)

American Sign Language is one of the most in-demand languages in the U.S., with over half a million users. Learning ASL not only enhances communication skills but opens doors to careers in healthcare, education, and social work, while fostering inclusion and accessibility in diverse communities.

This track teaches ASL alongside interdisciplinary courses in language and culture, disability studies, social inequality, nonverbal communication, and communicating across differences.