Department of Modern Languages and Cultures

Welcome

Our programs in Chinese, French, Japanese and Spanish provide students with:

• language proficiency and essential skills to establish meaningful personal and intellectual connections with a global community,
• the knowledge, tools, and experiences to broaden their view of the world,
• the ability to be inclusive, treat others with dignity and make a difference by learning to communicate with and appreciate other cultures and
• intercultural cooperation proficiencies

Learning about other cultures and civilizations through their language leads to a better understanding of one's self and the world in which we live. This process has a profound impact on its learners as:

• It challenges students to articulate their thoughts and convey meaning in another language.
• Students start to reflect on their position in society, and that of others, which allows them to respectfully engage their community locally and globally.
• Students develop the ability to put themselves in the shoes of people that come from different backgrounds, thus becoming empathic and compassionate. Students are able to understand the experiences of people from other countries that live in the United States who may have difficulties navigating the English language.
• It allows students to travel the world and embrace it with confidence and joy.