Why Learn Another Language?

Our mission in the Department of World Languages and Literatures is to provide an intellectually challenging and supportive academic environment through excellent teaching, learning, research, and service. We expect our students to read and think critically, to write and speak professionally, and to develop expertise in their chosen fields of study. Recognizing the study of world languages as a cornerstone of a liberal arts education, we are committed to providing our students with educational experiences and mentorship of the highest quality, and to producing outstanding scholarship while embracing the principles of academic freedom, a variety of people and ideas, and a global perspective in all our departmental endeavors.

In today's global economy the demand for language skills continues to grow as governments, businesses, and organizations build relationships that are increasingly international.

Learning a language is beneficial in employment for two reasons: 1) it offers those in established careers the chance for quicker advancement and opportunities for international travel, and 2) it opens doors to new careers and employment opportunities. For a look at the range of jobs learning a language can offer read this article: The Importance of Learning Language in Today's World.

In this new era of GLOBALIZATION, learning a second language is now becoming a vital part of the basic preparation for an increasing number of careers. Many graduates report that their foreign language skills often enhance their mobility and improve their chances for promotion. See ERIC Digest article: Personal Benefits of Foreign Language Study.

When learning a foreign language, students also learn about different countries, cultures, people and communities. Our courses emphasize the five C's of foreign language education --Communication, Cultures, Connections, Comparisons, and Communities-- and can help you become a globally cultured, globally sensitive individual ready to thrive in a new era of globalization in today's increasingly interdependent world community.

Recent graduates have secured jobs in fields such as: education, translation including medical/business/defense/government, UX and UI fields, diplomacy, international business, police, and NGOs.

Majors in FOREIGN LANGUAGES, LITERATURE, and LINGUISTICS are most likely to find long-term employment in jobs requiring a college degree than in almost any other discipline, including STEM degrees: read more at Forbes.

The myth of lower salaries among Humanities degree holders: read more at Humanities Works.

New report findings demonstrate that language skills are in high demand among U.S. employers across industries and functions—and that demand is expected to rise: read more at Lead with Languages.

Modern Languages Association Report Spurs Discussion about the Value of Studying Languages: read more at the MLA website.

Why CEOs want majors in a Liberal Arts degree -- and especially language: read more at Fast Company.

Lifelong Benefits of Language Learning: read more at the MLA website.

Bilingual brains are healthier: read more at The Guardian.

Why learn Spanish? Read more at IMAC Spanish Language Programs.