The world languages dual major is a 32-credit program that is paired with any major that leads to a B.S. degree. The major offers eight language options from which to choose as a focus: Arabic, Chinese, classics, French, German, Italian, Russian and Spanish. Study of a second language adds immense value to a student's academic experience by sharpening skills in communication, decision-making, critical thinking, listening, concentration and multitasking. It also provides excellent professional preparation for careers in business, healthcare, science, engineering and more. Mastering a second language and honing intercultural communication skills in a multicultural America and globalized world will add richness and flexibility to life beyond one's career, as well.
The global languages dual major is administered by the Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures (LLC) but draws on languages and courses from both LLC and the Department of Classics, Humanities and Italian Studies.
Linguistic proficiency. Students will demonstrate an Intermediate-Mid to Intermediate-High level of proficiency based on the ACTFL Perfomance Descriptors for Language Learners in the target language in three modes of communication: interpretive, interpersonal and presentational skills.
- Interpretive: Students are able to understand main ideas and some supporting details on familiar topics relevant to their immediate environment such as everyday life and particular interests. They have sufficient control of language (vocabulary, structure and conventional spoken and written language) to understand fully non-complex texts.
- Interpersonal: Students are able to participate in conversations on familiar topics, ask questions to initiate and sustain conversations, and communicate about self, others and everyday life.
- Presentational: Students are able to communicate information and express their thoughts about familiar topics using simple sentence structures. They are able to create messages in contexts relevant to themselves and others, and their immediate environment.
Intercultural and transcultural competence. Students will demonstrate knowledge and understanding of other cultures. They are able to think critically about and are able to recognize and accept culturally differences, and the uniqueness of other cultures and peoples. By the time they graduate from our program, they will be able to:
- Recognize and describe the target culture products and practices they have directly studied and interpret texts that are read, heard and viewed.
- Analyze and critique the cultural and social products of the target culture (film, literature, art, popular culture, media, etc.) within their context, including conducting basic research projects.
- Begin to question the validity of their own cultural beliefs, behaviors and norms, by contrasting and comparing them with those of the target culture, and reflecting upon cultural differences related to spoken and written communication.
