A rise in global business ventures has led to an increased need for multilingual individuals. Proficiency in a foreign language opens up a world of opportunities. Language majors may find jobs in diplomacy or international relations, tourism, journalism, global industries such as international banking, or working in governmental or private organizations.
As China emerges as a player on the world stage, graduates with degrees in Chinese language and culture find themselves eagerly pursued. A knowledge of Arabic is essential for individuals who hope to work in the Middle East. Closer to home, fluency in Spanish language and an appreciation for Latino culture becomes increasingly important as Latinos move toward majority status in the United States.
Undergraduate foreign language programs may concentrate on specific languages and linguistics, or may be more focused on the literature and culture of the countries in which a language is spoken. At some colleges, students may choose a major in area studies. For example, in Middle Eastern area studies, the emphasis is on the history, culture, economics, and politics of that specific region. Since this type of concentration adds value to your degree, consider looking for the availability of area studies courses when selecting a college for its foreign language program.
Mandarin Chinese is the most frequently spoken language on earth. To understand the Chinese world, language majors must master the language and also gain a good understanding of China’s history and traditions. Many students enter this major with no background in Chinese. The language courses are intense and meet frequently. Through immersion in the language, students learn to speak, read, write and understand spoken Chinese. Chinese literature is usually introduced in the third year of language study. Majors typically also take such classes as Chinese religion and history, film and theater, Chinese music and art, and courses in East Asian civilization.
After English, Spanish is the official language of the largest number of countries. Although many students enter this major with a background in high school Spanish, the prior study of any of the Romance languages will be useful. Majors take elementary through advanced Spanish language, study Spanish culture, read both Latin American and Spanish literature, learn about Spanish history and civilizations, and may also take specialized classes such as Business Spanish or Applied Linguistics.
A major in French or Italian is similar to one in Spanish. Once again, the major focuses both on the structure of the language and on the culture and history of the regions in which these languages are spoken.
German majors study the language and literature of Germany, Austria and Switzerland. High school German or prior studies of the language are generally required before you can begin this major. After students are proficient in the language, they can go on to take such classes as German literature, film, history and drama. Russian majors may concentrate on either language or Russian literature. This major usually includes three or four years of language study combined with such courses as conversation and composition, Russian novels and short stories, theater and drama, and the works and lives of Russian literary giants.
Arabic and Japanese are among the more difficult languages to learn as adults. Once again, the language studies are intense as students must learn languages that are very different from English. Along with in-depth classes that immerse students in language studies, majors in these languages must take classes in literature, culture and history.
Careers for Foreign Language Majors
- Public relations director
- Journalist
- Television reporter
- Radio production
- Editorial assistant
- Speech writer
- Interpreter / translator
- Attorney
- FBI/NSA agent
- Legislative assistant
- International relations specialist
- Grant writer/fundraiser
- Peace Corps volunteer
- Community organizer
- Human rights worker
- Foreign service worker
- Advertiser
- Consultant
- Fashion industry worker
- International marketer
- Investment banker
- Electronic commerce worker
- Health care provider
- Teacher / professor
A strong foreign language program provides access to native speakers on the faculty, encourages social interaction through foreign language dorms or special clubs, and includes such facilities as language labs. Study abroad programs in regions where your language is spoken are an added plus.
