This linguistic and cultural fluency also reinforces the common goal of all modern languages of facilitating study abroad. Depending on the student s chosen language and the level of fluency in that language, a student may choose from a number of programs in a number of countries administered through the office of the Director of Study Abroad as well as through the office of the Chair of Modern Languages. Many students of modern languages have also demonstrated an abiding interest in International Studies. The International Studies major requires students to study at least three years of a modern language and strongly encourages students to incorporate a significant study abroad experience into their curricula. Thus, student pursuing language study beyond the intermediate level typically major or minor in a modern language and increasingly combine this expertise with International Studies.
Students are prepared for a variety of academic, business, and professional careers.
Special attention is given to the central importance of modern language study in this age of global awareness and economic interdependence. Thus, students who wish to pursue traditional language teaching careers at the high school and university levels will find continued encouragement to become language majors. As we become increasingly international in outlook and are faced with the need to intensify our efforts to communicate and interact with other cultures, language majors find themselves in a strong position to make significant contributions in a variety of fields. Furthermore the study of modern and classical languages provides a solid liberal arts foundation for any professional career. Majors are advised to pursue language courses until their proficiency assures successful work in the literary field.