Modern Languages and Cultures

Mission Statement

The Program in Modern Languages and Cultures (MLC) prepares students in the languages, cultures, and literatures of the Spanish and Japanese-speaking peoples, through a series of required and elective courses, a study-abroad experience, and a senior capstone research project for majors. Students graduating in MLC will be expected to demonstrate proficiency in speaking, listening, writing, and reading in their chosen language in a cultural context. The program prepares students to become critical thinkers and lifelong learners in a globalized community, with an understanding of and sensitivity towards diverse cultures.

We offer majors and minors in Japanese Studies and Spanish along with associate’s degrees.

All language majors, as well as minors in the Teacher Education program, are required to improve their language competencies through a relevant College-approved foreign study program (12-week minimum, fall or spring semester preferred). The faculty offers close guidance to students in planning such an experience. Members of the language faculty occasionally conduct study/travel trips to foreign countries. Majors and Minors in the Teacher Education program are also required to take MLC 490 (Capstone: Study Abroad Seminar) after their return from abroad.

Course work and off-campus experiences, including internships in related practical experience programs, are supplemented by on-campus opportunities such as language clubs, guest native speakers, and foreign films and publications.

• Bachelor of Arts in Japanese Studies (120 Hours)
• Bachelor of Arts in Japanese Education
• Bachelor of Arts in Spanish (120 Hours)
• Bachelor of Arts in Spanish PK-12 Education
• Associate of Arts in Japanese Studies (60 Hours)
• Associate of Arts in Spanish (60 Hours)
• Associate of Arts in Spanish for the Professions (60 Hours)
• Minor in Japanese Studies (18 Hours)
• Minor in Spanish (26 Hours)
• Minor in Spanish for the Professions (29 Hours)