Modern Languages and Cultures
About the Modern Languages and Cultures Program
Through the curriculum, students will acquire knowledge of different languages and cultures in a variety of languages that include Arabic, Japanese, and Spanish (Chinese is taught as needed; French by distance education). There are two B.A. programs in Spanish that concentrate in the acquisition of language skills and culture incorporating high-impact practices, active learning, and relevant interdisciplinary collaboration into a four-year course of study. There is also B.A. in MLC Cultural Area Studies which allows students interested in expanding their knowledge of Asian, European, and Middle Eastern cultures beyond the minor to continue onto a major that takes an interdisciplinary approach to the learning experience. Available minors are Arabic, Asian Studies, French, Japanese, and Spanish. Certificates in Arabic, Japanese, and Spanish offer an interdisciplinary curriculum combining language and culture courses with classes from other departments.
What Can I Do With a Modern Languages and Cultures Degree?
The Modern Languages and Cultures Programs at Slippery Rock University prepares students for the challenges of an increasingly multilingual and interconnected world. Our main goal is to enable the acquisition of world languages and cultural knowledge so that our students respect diversity and can succeed professionally in a global society. Knowing more than one language gives students a competitive edge in the job market and provides personal enrichment by connecting the individual to the worldwide community. Graduates are prepared for professions in a variety of fields, including translation, social work, health care, education, business, law, criminology, tourism, English-language teaching, and many more. Thus, graduates also look forward to international career options. Communication is the number-one skill that employers seek in their employees. Students will develop communicative and cultural competency through language learning.
Why Choose a Modern Languages and Cultures Degree?
- Foreign Language Advantage
More and more businesses work closely with companies in other countries and need workers who can communicate in different languages and understand other cultures. No matter what career you choose, if you’ve learned a second language, you’ll have a real advantage. - Extracurricular Activities
Students have the opportunity of practicing their target language outside the classroom through different activities including language clubs and study abroad programs to Spain, Costa Rica, Mexico, France and Japan to further enhance their skills. - Small Class Sizes
Language and culture classes are capped at 30 students, providing students a more individualized classroom experience. - Experienced Faculty
Students will be taught by native language faculty members who bring real-life examples, research and experience to enhance the learning experience. - Support and Guidance
Every undergraduate is assigned an academic adviser to guide them through their program of study and help them make decisions about educational and career goals.
