Languages offered

The Department of World Languages and Literatures offers courses in several languages, with programs ranging from minors and majors to master’s degrees. Whether you’re beginning a new language or advancing your studies, explore below to discover the languages we teach and the degree options available for each.

We make it easy to double major! Choosing a major doesn't have to mean only choosing one path. Learn how to double major in a language.

Connect with an advisor

To declare a major or minor in a language or for questions, reach out to the language advisor for more information.

CONNECT WITH AN ADVISOR

 

Spanish

We offer a range of Spanish degree options, including several minors, bachelor’s and dual bachelor’s degrees, as well as a master’s degree in Spanish. Students gain a strong foundation in Spanish linguistics, literature, and culture while developing advanced language and communication skills applicable to fields such as bilingual journalism and strategic communications. Graduates are prepared for careers in news, public relations, advertising, graduate study, or any profession that values Spanish-language proficiency and media expertise.

View all Spanish degrees
 

French

We offer multiple pathways to study French, including a Bachelor of Arts in French, a French minor, and dual majors in Journalism and Secondary Education. Guided by dedicated faculty, students develop advanced proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, writing and cultural understanding, preparing them to thrive in an increasingly global workforce.

View all French degrees
 

American Sign Language

Students study American Sign Language and the Deaf community as a linguistic and cultural minority, gaining the skills to communicate respectfully and effectively with diverse sign language users.

American Sign Language and Deaf Studies, Minor

 

Arabic

Arabic is one of the world's most widely spoken and culturally rich languages. Our Arabic courses invite students to explore the language while gaining insight into the histories, cultures and communities connected to it.

View Arabic courses available

 

Chinese

This program provides students with cultural enrichment and a broad understanding of Chinese language, literature and culture.

Chinese, Minor

 

German

German is a key language in Europe with deep connections to culture, history, philosophy and the arts. Our German courses invite students to explore the language while gaining insight into the societies and traditions of German-speaking regions.

View German courses available

 

Italian

From art and design to history, fashion and food, Italian plays an important role in global culture. Our Italian courses invite students to explore the language while gaining insight into the cultures and traditions of Italy and Italian-speaking communities.

View Italian courses available

 

Japanese

The Japanese minor provides students with cultural enrichment and a broad understanding of the Japanese language, content and culture.

Japanese, Minor

The University offers the Japan Travel Program, a two-week summer cultural immersion open to students, faculty and staff. Participants visit partner universities and travel to cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara and Hiroshima, gaining meaningful experiential learning beyond the classroom.

Learn more about the Japan Travel Program

 

Northern Paiute

Northern Paiute is an Indigenous language with deep roots in the Great Basin and an enduring connection to the region's history, land and communities. Our Northern Paiute courses invite students to engage with the language while learning about the cultural knowledge and traditions it carries.

View Northern Paiute courses available