Discover Global Perspectives
We are committed to providing students with the communicative tools and cultural knowledge fundamental to living in a globalized world.
The mission of the Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures informs our approach to teaching at all levels. Whether a first-semester language course or an advanced film seminar, our courses provide students with the linguistic skills, intercultural competencies and critical thinking skills they need to succeed beyond the classroom. In fact, extracurricular learning begins right here. We offer for-credit internships, volunteer opportunities and countless study abroad options.
Explore Our Programs
The Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures offers two BA programs: Global Languages and Cultural Studies, and Spanish. Our programs focus on language learning at all levels and our classes integrate the world-readiness standards (the 5 Cs) for language teaching and learning: Communication, Cultures, Connections, Comparisons and Communities.
Our majors, minors and the Advanced Certificate in Spanish for the Health and Helping Professions will prepare you for a variety of careers in which bilingualism and multiculturalism are valued professional assets.
Additional Information
Minors
The Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures also offers four minors in:
Certification Program
The Advanced Spanish for the Health and Helping Professions Certificate can be earned while pursuing your undergraduate degree and help meet the need in the healthcare sector for bilingual and bicultural professionals. Understand the linguistic and cultural competencies to work bilingually in the health and helping professions and advocate for healthcare equity for the Spanish-speaking population.
Students planning to take a course in French, German, or Spanish are required to take the Modern Language Placement Test (MLP). Most students taking Japanese will enroll in 1311 and no test is required. The placement test is free and it is not a high-stakes test, just do your best. You do not receive credit for this test. It is simply a tool that helps the language faculty determine the right level for you and does not affect your academic standing in any way. To receive credit for prior knowledge of a language you can take the CLEP test and earn up to 15 hours. It is offered in Spanish, French, and German only.
Contact Dr. Philippe Seminet for more information.
The Camino Scholarship
The Camino scholarship program provides travel funds for Spanish majors and minors to study abroad in Latin America and Spain. Through support of the scholarship, students are able to increase and deepen their knowledge of the cultures and civilizations of Spanish language countries and their mastery of Spanish.
Fulbright Scholarship
St. Edward’s University is named a Top Producer of Fulbright U.S. students, and ranks as one of the top three universities on the Master’s Institution list. The Fulbright Program is the U.S. government's flagship international academic exchange program. Since 1946, the Fulbright Program has provided over 400,000 talented and accomplished students, scholars, teachers, artists, and professionals of all backgrounds with the opportunity to study, teach, and conduct research abroad. Fulbrighters exchange ideas, build people-to-people connections, and work to address complex global challenges.
I loved that I have had the opportunity to take classes in Spanish literature, linguistics and grammar as well as a translation class because it has allowed me to learn more about the language itself and it is so exciting to actually see for myself all the components that make up the language [...].
Student Organizations and Opportunities
Meet fellow students with similar interests by getting involved with one of our many on-campus clubs or student organizations. Take advantage of professional development, study abroad and networking opportunities.
Alpha Mu Gamma
Alpha Mu Gamma is the national collegiate foreign language honor society. Students are inducted during the annual initiation ceremony on campus.
Language Clubs
Students participate in various language clubs, including French, Spanish, German and Japanese. Many host gatherings across campus to introduce and share foods, films, games and music specific to each culture.
Study Abroad
Students are encouraged to study abroad to make further strides in language and culture acquisition as they put their language tools to good use. St. Edward’s offers four types of study abroad programs—University Exchange Programs, Provider Programs, Dual-Degree Programs and Faculty-Led Programs.