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What can you do with a Major in Foreign Languages?
- Go into business or industry
- Become a teacher or researcher
- Work for the government
- Be a life-long learner and adventurer
- All of the above (and more!)
In today’s world of increasing globalization, the ability to communicate effectively in another language and with a person from another culture is a highly sought after commodity, and so a major in French, German, or Spanish can strengthen your resume in any of the following areas: English, finance,history, journalism, law, marketing, political science,public administration, sociology, engineering, chemistry, medicine…
Also, the demand for employees with language and cultural skills means that there is a constant need for foreign language instructors. Not only does learning a language open up new opportunities on the job market, it even makes you smarter! Recent studies like this one now prove what many have long suspected: MSNBC: Language learning changes brain.
The foreign language major consists of 33 hours beyond level 204. The core of the program are the bridge courses, 301,302, 303, 304 and Linguistics 311, which provide a foundation in language and culture. Beyond these, you will take at least one advanced culture course and one course in the literature of your selected language. Finally, you will take a capstone course that incorporates many of the skills and knowledge you have developed. The overall program is designed to offer you knowledge of important historical events and cultural products and to help you analyze information and express your ideas clearly, skills greatly needed in today’s global information age.
The Department of Foreign Languages encourages its majors to study abroad by sponsoring progams in Brazil, France,Germany, Mexico, and Spain.
You can also double major in languages and another area. Or if your program of study is unusually rigid, you can minor in Foreign Languages; the minor consists of 15 hours beyond level 204. WVU also offers a dual degree in Business and Foreign Languages (French, German, or Spanish). FOR MORE INFORMATION, see the Undergraduate Catalog or speak with a member of the faculty in Foreign Languages.