"Americans who travel abroad for the first time are often shocked to discover that, despite all the progress that has been made in the last 30 years, many foreign people still speak in foreign languages."
~ Dave Barry (I know, I know, people don't get print sarcasm...)

What is Languages & Cultures?

The goal of studying a foreign language is not simply to become fluent in a language, but also to gain an understanding of the cultures that use the language in their everyday life by studying and critically examining the cultural history and literature. Graduates who are bi- or tri- lingual are essential in all facets of American life as we enter the 21st century. The academic and business worlds are demanding graduates who can communicate thoughtfully and with reliability. Here at William Paterson University students have the opportunity to earn a BA in French or Spanish. Additional coursework may be taken on for these students to earn their teacher certification, however graduates fluent in second languages are in demand in all career fields.

To view the Language and Culture department's web-site, click here:
http://www.wpunj.edu/cohss/language/

To view Admission Information on language and Literature, click here:
http://www.wpunj.edu/cohss/departments/lang_cul/

Skills valued by employers of Languages & Cultures Majors:

• Linguistic Ability
• Problem-solving
• Exemplary writing and communication skills
• Appreciation for the culture and life-styles of others
• Self-discipline
• Alertness
• Clarify ideas
• Ability to edit and summarize ideas
• Intellectual growth
• Adaptability
• Creativity
• Patience

Possible Job Titles

Aside from majoring in a language, what else can I do that may enhance my qualifications?

Students in the Language and Cultures major at William Paterson University have numerous opportunities to enhance their academic experience. Students can contact the department about internships in a variety of organizations. Also, many students find that a study abroad in a country were they can practice Spanish or French with native speakers is enormously beneficial. Also, many students join the Spanish or French Club which enables them to meet others in their major with similar interests, career goals, and offers them the chance to practice the language of their chosen field. The department also offers membership to honors societies in both French and Spanish to students who meet certain GPA requirements.

What else can I read about languages and cultures?

Related Web Sites :

American Institute for Foreign Study http://www.aifs.com/

Association of Departments of Foreign Languages http://www.adfl.org/

Other sources of information :

Please drop by the Career Development and Advisement Center to learn more about careers in languages and cultures. The career library carries career-specific books and counselors are available to answer any further questions you may have. Visiting the Department of Languages & Cultures on campus may also prove valuable in addressing questions.

The Career Development and Gloria S. Williams Advisement Center
Student Center 301, 300 Pompton Road Wayne, NJ 07470
Phone 973.720.2281/2282 Fax 973.720.2074

Contact us with comments, questions and feedback about the website.