The Department of Languages, Literatures, and Cultures' mission is to transform the way students view and interact with the world. Our programs teach students to speak, read, and write in other languages, and to think critically about culture through its many linguistic manifestations. Undergraduate students can expect to have small classes in languages, cultural history, linguistics, and literature. Undergraduate Spanish majors have the opportunity to earn an accelerated Spanish master's degree.
Academics
What Do You Want to Study?
In our introductory courses, students learn the basics of the language and culture. Students in our minors sharpen their communication skills and deepen their cultural knowledge, and students in our majors go on to take seminar-style courses in linguistic, literary, and cultural studies. Our award-winning and nationally accredited K-12 Teacher Education program offers opportunities for global and civic engagement. Our students study abroad in locations all around the world. Undergraduate Spanish majors now have the opportunity to earn an accelerated masters in Spanish.
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French
Studying French opens doors to many careers.
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German
Provides access to many fields of study and activity.
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Spanish
Training in all aspects of language proficiency.
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Chinese
Ranked as the most useful business language after English.
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Italian
Experience one of the most fascinating cultures in the world.
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Japanese
The ninth most widely spoken language in the world.
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Latin
The most influential language in modern Western culture.
Graduate Certificates
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Instructional Technology in World Languages
Offers hands-on training in the use of new technologies in the teaching of world/second languages for K-12 and college settings.
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Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
Provide graduate students an exposure to the fundamental topics of the English language.
Interdisciplinary Programs
In addition to the department's minors in various languages, our students can also participate in the following interdisciplinary programs:
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Minor in Women's and Gender Studies
Focus on women's contributions to society and the gender implications of cultural, political, and economic processes.
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Minor in Latin American and Latino/a Studies
Examine the social, political, and cultural challenges of Latin America, the Caribbean, and U.S.
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Minor in European Studies
A cohesive program of study in the arts, history, languages, and society of one or more European nations.
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Peace Corps Prep certificate program
Maximize your time at Illinois State by engaging with your community and thinking globally.