Modern Languages Career Map

Awareness

First Year

• Understand that the department offers a Major in Modern Languages and Literature with multiple concentration options.
• Recognize that the program is part of the College of Arts and Sciences.
• Awareness of the "Lesser Taught Languages" program, which provides introductory and intermediate courses in several global languages.
• Learn about the Language Placement test, which is required for students with prior language training to ensure they start at the appropriate level.
  

Middle Years

• Identify the three primary undergraduate concentrations: French, German, and Spanish.
• Become aware of minor options, including Applied Linguistics and Classics, in addition to the major languages.
• Recognize the availability of the Language Resource Center, a collaborative space that provides technology and learning resources for tutoring and practice.
• Understand the role of language mastery in becoming an effective communicator in international professional settings.
  

Last Year

• Recognize the Alternative Master’s program option for those interested in teaching, offered through the College of Education and Professional Studies.
• Stay informed about graduate-level course offerings in Spanish, French, and German for advanced study.
• Awareness of professional certificate programs that can be completed fully online to enhance your resume.

Exploration

First Year

• Explore a wide variety of "Lesser Taught Languages" such as Arabic, Japanese, Korean, Italian, Portuguese, Modern Greek, or American Sign Language.
• Visit the Department of Modern and Classical Languages and Literature to meet faculty and discuss how language skills apply to different global careers.
• Investigate the different concentrations (French, German, or Spanish) to see which culture and language align with your career interests.

Middle Years

• Explore the Applied Linguistics or Classics minors to add interdisciplinary depth to your major.
• Participate in departmental news and events to connect with other language learners and native speakers.
• Investigate how a second language can provide a competitive edge in fields like healthcare, business, or international relations.
  

Last Year

• Network with professionals through the department’s resources to find roles where bilingualism is a key asset.
• Research career paths that require specialized language skills, such as Teaching English as a Foreign/Second Language (TEFL/TESL).
• Explore the Spanish for Health Professionals certificate if you are interested in a career in the medical field.
  

Preparation

First Year

• Build a strong grammatical and conversational foundation in your chosen language.
• Consult with academic advisors to ensure you are on track for the undergraduate major requirements.
• Utilize the Language Resource Center early on to establish good study habits and access tutoring.
  

Middle Years

• Master the cultural nuances and advanced linguistics of your concentration (French, German, or Spanish).
• Consider enrolling in an Alternative Master's program if your goal is to teach Spanish, French, or German in a K-12 setting.
• Practice real-world application of your language skills through collaborative learning and technology-based resources.
  

Last Year

• Complete a specialized certificate, such as TEFL or TESL, to prepare for international teaching opportunities.
• Finalize a professional portfolio that demonstrates your fluency and understanding of foreign cultures.
• Use the "Contact Us" departmental resources for personalized advice on applying for graduate programs or entering the international job market.