Foreign Languages & Literatures

Major in Foreign Languages

Through language we penetrate from the mind and heart of one people to another, from one civilization to another, from the wisdom of one literature to that of another. By learning a foreign language, students become familiar with the literature, history, philosophy, art, and the economic and social conditions of the people who speak that language. Seven-eighths of the world’s people do not speak English. Languages provide the keys for access to these other cultures and countries. Learning a foreign language helps grasp the nature, function, and social importance of one’s own native tongue. Language learning, therefore, becomes the bridge between the peoples and cultures of the world.


About The Program

Virginia Wesleyan’s programs in French Studies, German Studies, and Hispanic Studies are designed to prepare students for meaningful international and intercultural exchange in a competitive, globalized world. In keeping with the university’s commitment to a liberal arts education, students pursuing one of these majors will acquire a multidisciplinary and comprehensive understanding of the target culture, its language, and its impact on the world at large. Each major provides communication skills in a foreign language and a strong knowledge base that will support a career in business, communications, political science, journalism, criminal justice, education, law, and many others.

The Hispanic Studies Program at Virginia Wesleyan University has been instrumental in preparing me to be the best teacher possible. The courses that I took have allowed me to practice and learn the linguistic and cultural diversity of the Spanish speaking world. The number one advantage of being a Hispanic Studies major was feeling confident with my language skills when studying abroad in Argentina and when working as a Spanish language tutor at the Learning Center. Spanish is such an essential language in today’s world that whether you major or minor in it, it will definitely open doors to greater opportunities.

Alyssa Balanta, Spanish Teacher (Levels 1 & 2)

Majors: French Studies (BA), German Studies (BA), Hispanic Studies (BA)
Minors:
French Studies, German Studies, Hispanic Studies

Chair: Dr. Susan Wansink
School: Susan S. Goode School of Arts And Humanities


This major primes students for meaningful exchange in an increasingly complex, globalized, transnational, and multicultural world where interaction with non-English speaking people has become not just desirable, but unavoidable and where liberal arts graduates should have a sense of enlightened understanding of, appreciation for, and solidarity with other countries, nations, and peoples. Students are prepared for careers in education, diplomacy, business, communications, political science, and journalism, and for graduate study.