World Languages Option

 

Review the academic map for recommended course selections and sequencing for a World Languages focus (PDF, ) .

 

We use languages every day to share our thoughts, understand others and appreciate unique perspectives. Languages, whether in spoken or written form, are the foundation of how we communicate with people around the world. Studying world languages offers you an opportunity to explore and experience various cultures through their language, customs, and products. The General Studies world languages option allows you to build a foundation for transfer to a four-year program where you may continue your language studies to become a skilled linguist or polyglot. Keep in mind that there are numerous career paths where language skills are in demand.

• World Languages are included in the top eight skills required across all careers.
• 90% of employers depend on employees who know languages other than English.
• 75% of the world’s population does not speak English.
• 56% of U.S. employers believe the need for language expertise will grow in the next five years.

 

Program Advising

Academic advising helps students reach their educational and career goals. Most college programs will require language studies as part of their degree track. Depending on your program, this may require one to two years of language study or demonstrating language proficiency through a specific course level. It is important to discuss these requirements with a counselor and/or program advisor. If you are completing the world languages option, you will easily meet this requirement. Meet with your academic advisor regularly to discuss your academic plan and ensure you are on track to graduate and/or transfer. See the academic map for a suggested course sequence for this discipline.

• World Languages Discipline Option - Academic Map (PDF, )  
• Find a Program Advisor

Transfer Opportunities

There are many options for students studying world languages. Students may major or minor in a language or pursue a related certificate. Most programs offer a degree in language and literature where students focus on one language. However, it is possible to study more languages through options like a romance language major or a double major. Translation studies require high-level proficiency in languages, but many four-year institutions will offer 300 or 400-level translation courses as an opportunity to develop these skills. For those who want to be language teachers, education and proficiency requirements will vary depending on the level you want to teach. Additional transfer options include majors in ancient or classical studies, comparative literature, linguistics, or film studies. Please review the General Studies Transfer agreements. 

Career Options

For some positions listed, a bachelor's degree or higher may be required. Use the Career and Program Explorer to see a full report for this career field. See links below chart for further guidance and/or connect with a Program Advisor to discuss career goals.

Related careers include consulting work, education, interpretation, translation, federal employment, legal or medical professions, journalism, social work, travel, and more. A General Studies world languages focus provides opportunities for students to develop and hone their skills in critical thinking, analysis, team-building and problem-solving and apply these skills to a wide range of careers.

• MC Student Employment Services: Speak with the Student Employment Specialist for help with resume writing, interviewing, setting up a College Central Network (CCN)new window account and other job search topics.
• Career Coach: Explore Career Coach to learn more about this career and/or discover related majors and in-demand careers based on your current interests! Take a Career Assessment and then browse careers and job opportunities in the area.

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