Students in every field benefit from proficiency in a modern language, because it develops critical-thinking skills, a deeper understanding of their own first language, and the realization that ways of viewing the world and life's possibilities are much broader than the boundaries defined by a monolingual perspective.  Another language broadens appreciation for one’s culture and that of others. It prepares one for active citizenship in an increasingly multicultural and multilingual world.

In a highly competitive world, with an ever more intertwined global economy, proficiency in at least one additional language represents a very real and invaluable asset. It allows wider access to diverse opportunities for careers in business, law, government, communication, medicine, and many other fields. We recommend a major in a modern language or a double major including a modern language, to all students pursuing a bachelor’s degree on this campus. In addition, all language majors at IU Southeast are encouraged to minor in one of the other modern languages offered.

Mission/Vision Statement

The Department of Modern Languages at IU Southeast believes that the study of a language should enable the student to participate in written and oral communication in the foreign language. Through language study, students gain knowledge and understanding of the cultures of the world, connect with other disciplines and acquire information that may be unavailable to the monolingual English speaker, develop insight into the nature of language and culture, become more aware of the inner workings and richness of their first language, and participate in communities at home and abroad. The Spanish, French, and German undergraduate programs are designed for those who desire a greater understanding of the world through the study of language, contemporary culture, history, literature, music, and film. Specifically, Spanish, French, and German majors receive excellent professional preparation for a career as language teachers (note that there are additional requirements for teacher certification) and for entry into an advanced degree program. To expand employment options, students are encouraged to combine a language degree with a major in one or more additional fields.

Department Policies

Student candidates for the Bachelor of Arts in a modern language must complete a minimum of 30 credit hours above the 100-level, some of which may be taken overseas (see the “Overseas Study” section of this Bulletin) or through other local colleges and universities in the area with whom IU Southeast has entered into consortium agreements.  Additionally, only one online course completed at an institution other than IU Southeast can be used towards fulfillment of the major requirements.

Degree  Requirements

See “General Requirements for Undergraduate Degrees at IU Southeast” and “General Requirements for the Bachelor of Arts Degree.”

Study Abroad or an International Engagement Capstone Experience

In addition, study abroad or an international engagement activity is required for the BA degree. The international engagement activity is reserved for those majors with a demonstrated inability to study abroad. This alternative engagement activity must be developed in consultation with a Modern Languages faculty member and may include substantial community engagement or a substantial directed research project. Study in approved study abroad programs will be applied to fulfillment of other requirements in the major. Students should speak with a Modern Languages faculty member for more details.

Students majoring in German may also qualify for a second credential, the Certificate in Second Language Competency. The certificate differs from the major in that it requires a B in each course in that curriculum.