The Department of World Languages and Cultures has as its goals helping students to:
 

1. Acquire the linguistic/cultural training they need to:
   • interact in an appropriate manner with native speakers of the language they are learning;
   • read and write about, with understanding, literature and other relevant materials written in the foreign language; and
   • realize vocational goals
    
2. View themselves as citizens of the world
    
3. Understand how one culture may be different from, while not being inferior to another.

The department offers instruction in French, German and Spanish language, literature and culture; Russian and Latin.

Majors

French Major
Spanish Major  

Minors

African American/African Studies Minor
Ethnic Studies Minor
French Minor
Gender and Women's Studies Minor
Spanish Minor  

More Information

About the Language Requirement
Careers
Opportunities and Organizations
The Language Lab
Faculty Directory
Online Course Bulletin and course requirements

Double majors are common and encouraged. They may be two modern languages or one modern language and a major in another department. Students may take advantage of a variety of study abroad opportunities, which include the Capital-liaison arrangements with Central College, Alma College, the American Institute of Foreign Study, and the College Consortium for International Studies.

The double major or minor is especially recommended for those students who would like to combine the study of a modern language with a major in another discipline in order to better prepare themselves for a variety of careers including international business, international relations, government, law and social work.

Placement based on CAPE written and oral placement exams enables students to progress in their program as rapidly as proficiency permits. All members of the department have lived, studied, and traveled extensively abroad.