Modern Languages
Academic Department
The Department of Modern Languages immerses students in the study of a second language and its literatures and cultures. Our students deepen their understanding of cultural differences and similarities, exercise their responsibilities as citizens of the world and promote meaningful cross-cultural exchange.
Our courses are taught by skilled, accessible faculty members with experience living and studying in countries around the globe. We strongly encourage participation in study abroad programs, support student internships abroad wherever possible and promote volunteer outreach in the Newport community, where students tutor English as a second language and teach French and Spanish to elementary school students during after-school programs.
Programs
French (B.A., Minor)
Our bachelor's degree in French allows students to develop their linguistic skills while gaining an appreciation for the cultures, civilizations and literature of the French-speaking world. Students who major in French spend at least one semester studying in a French-speaking country, and internships abroad are supported wherever possible.
Italian Studies (Minor)
Our minor in Italian studies provides an opportunity for students to achieve proficiency in the language while adding to their cultural knowledge of Italy. Students participate in a short-term or semester study abroad program in Italy and are encouraged to pursue Italian-focused courses related to or complementing their major.
Spanish (B.A., Minor)
Our bachelor's degree in Spanish allows students to develop their linguistic skills while gaining an appreciation for the cultures, civilizations and literature of the Spanish-speaking world. Students spend at least one semester studying in a Spanish-speaking country, and internships abroad are supported wherever possible.
Spanish for the Health and Service Professions (Minor)
Designed to complement majors such as administration of justice, health care administration and management, nursing and social work, our minor in Spanish for the health and service professions prepares students to effectively communicate with diverse populations in the workplace.
World Languages Education (B.A.S.)
Our bachelor's degree in world languages education develops students' linguistic skills in either French or Spanish and readies them to apply for Rhode Island teacher certification in grades K-12. Our students master a modern language and gain the expertise to confidently move from being students in the classroom to teachers who will make a difference.