The Mission of the Modern Language Department is to expand students' horizons by teaching them other languages and introducing them to other cultures of the world. Through our program, students develop skills in listening comprehension, speaking, reading and writing a second language, which will provide them with access to other cultures; awareness and appreciation of the contributions of other cultures to contemporary society through the study of their histories and literatures, cultural sensitivity and respect through engagement with those cultures; and critical thinking skills, through reflecting on the differences and similarities between the target cultures and their own.
The Modern Language Department is, therefore, a key component of a liberal arts education and serves the mission of the university by preparing students to become sensitive, responsive and competitive participants in our increasingly diverse, multi-cultural and global society.
