The modern language curriculum is designed to give students an opportunity to become conversant in one or more languages from linguistic, literary and cultural perspectives. We encourage serious students to examine the social, philosophical and aesthetic themes in literature and to acquire fluency and sensitivity to structure and style in the languages offered which include French, German, Italian, Spanish, Japanese, as well as English as a Second Language. Careers in such fields as government, law, business, medicine, social service, journalism, or education are enhanced by the knowledge of foreign languages.
Many graduate programs require proficiency in a foreign language.
Majors are offered in French,German, and Spanish, German and also in modern languages and literatures. Students should spend their junior year in an approved program of studies abroad, or participate in an approved program of summer studies. Minors are offered in French , German, Italian, and Spanish. In cooperation with other academic departments, the department also participates in programs providing majors in German Studies and Italian Studies. The programs are designed to encourage the student to combine her interests in a language with other disciplines.