World Languages and Cultures
Break down barriers. Expand horizons.
Studying other languages and cultures fosters empathy and intercultural collaboration, allowing us to thrive in an increasingly connected world. In Alma’s world languages and cultures program, you will:
- Gain linguistic proficiency in one or more languages — selecting from Chinese, Arabic, French, German and Spanish.
- Cultivate a rich awareness of another culture by examining its history, art, film, literature and customs.
- Develop a nuanced understanding of your role in a global society.
At A Glance
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12:1Student-to-faculty ratio
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18Average class size
Possible Careers
Break down barriers. Expand horizons.
Studying other languages and cultures fosters empathy and intercultural collaboration, allowing us to thrive in an increasingly connected world. In Alma’s world languages and cultures program, you will:
- Gain linguistic proficiency in one or more languages — selecting from Chinese, Arabic, French, German and Spanish.
- Cultivate a rich awareness of another culture by examining its history, art, film, literature and customs.
- Develop a nuanced understanding of your role in a global society.
Get to Know World Languages and Cultures
Meet the Faculty
The Alma Venture
Dream it, learn it, do it. Through our Venture program, you can design a unique, hands-on learning experience at home or abroad. Find out more about the Alma Venture.
Explore the Curriculum
Learn more about the fundamental courses that will offer a roadmap for your academic growth and expertise development.
Immerse yourself in language and culture.
At Alma, along with our traditional language major in Spanish, we also offer two additional tracks — our single and dual world languages and cultures programs.
As a world languages and cultures major, you’ll declare a concentration in one or two target languages, choosing from French, German, Arabic, Spanish or — if you opt for the dual track — Chinese. You’ll then take classes that explore language, culture and history.
The world languages and cultures major doesn’t require you to study abroad. However, we strongly advise spending time in a country where your target language is spoken.
Alma has approved programs of study in France, Germany, Peru and Spain, among others. And thanks to our Venture grant, you’ll be guaranteed funding to pursue travel, research or an internship.
What You Need to Know
Alma’s language graduates go on to build meaningful careers in the U.S. and around the world. Many hold positions in business, teaching and communication. Others opt for roles in foreign service, diplomacy and international relations.
Whatever you choose to do, you’ll find you have a highly-prized skillset. Research has demonstrated that bilingual and multilingual employees can earn between 5 and 20% more than their peers.
Get Connected
Student Organizations
Practice your language skills, make friends and celebrate the diversity of our campus community by joining one — or more — of our 100+ student organizations.
