Modern & Classical Languages, Literature & Cultures

The Department of Modern and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Cultures program advances the study of languages and cultures around the world. Students develop advanced proficiency in Arabic, Chinese, Classical Greek, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Latin, and/or Russian while studying the art, culture, film, folklore, literature, music, mythology, religion and theatre of the areas where these languages are spoken. In addition, the department provides service to the Commonwealth in language instruction and cultural awareness. Students choose one of seven tracks in the MCL major: Arabic and Islamic Studies, Chinese Studies, Classics, French and Francophone Studies, German Studies, Japan Studies, and Russian Studies. 

• Freshman Admission: Applicants who have not attended a college or university upon completion of secondary school AND who have met all requirements including English proficiency as noted below.
• Transfer Admission : Applicants who have attended a college or university upon completion of secondary school AND met all requirements including English proficiency as noted below.
• Non-degree Admission: Applicants who are exchange or visiting students.

• Conditional Admission: Applicants who meet UK’s academic requirements for admission but do not meet the minimum language proficiency requirement or the departmental specific requirements (such as certain SAT/ACT math scores for Engineering and Nursing).
  • Students who are offered conditional admission because of English may either resubmit a higher TOEFL/IELTS score or enroll in UK's Center for English as a Second Language program. The duration of these courses will depend on placement test results and individual student progress. Upon successful completion of the English language course(s), the student will move seamlessly into a degree program at UK. This means no TOEFL/IELTS scores will be required if students complete CESL.
  • Students who require a higher math score for Engineering may submit a higher score or switch their intended major to a program that does not have specific requirements.
  • No additional application is required for Conditional Admission.

Grow Your Future

Students with advanced foreign language skills find work in government, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), travel and tourism, International business, arts and entertainment and education.

Career opportunities in Modern and Classical languages

• International business
• International organizations
• International law
• Diplomatic corps
• Red Cross
• Non-profit organizations
• intercultural communication
• Foreign and public service
• Tourism
• Education
• National Security
• United Nations
• Publishing
• Translation
• Journalism