Why Foreign Languages & Literatures?
Why should I study foreign languages?
A degree in Foreign Languages opens the world to you.
The purpose of languages is to make connections between people; the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures is a group of individuals dedicated to helping connect our local students to the wider world community. We help our students connect with other people and cultures by helping them understand the thinking and worldviews of other cultures and parts of the world. This takes place through the study of the classics of great literature as well as via popular forms of communication.
What can I do with a degree in foreign languages?
Some careers foreign language majors go on to pursue are...
Hannah Gerrish | Biology ('18) and French ('19) Majors with Music minor
Ever wondered what it would be like to live in another country? Is it your dream to
land a career in international politics, finance, science, or education? Or maybe
you’re looking for a way to challenge yourself while opening new worlds of possibility
for your academic and professional careers?
Check out our student success stories and see what the language program has in store
for you!
Foreign Languages & Literatures at the University of Alaska Fairbanks
Degrees Offered:
Our Mission Statement
Language is the embodiment of culture and an expression of a people's way of thinking, feeling, and viewing the world. We have an increasing need to communicate directly with other peoples to achieve mutual understanding. Learning a new language opens new avenues of thought, new modes of expression, and new models of understanding. The study of foreign languages and literatures liberates the student from the confines of one culture.
The bachelor’s in foreign languages offers classes in French, German, Japanese, Russian and Spanish. You can focus your degree in one language, or choose the two languages concentration. Students majoring in Japanese studies are required to successfully complete at least one semester of an exchange program in Japan. Spending a full academic year abroad is strongly encouraged.
The Department of Foreign Languages & Literatures houses a language lab with computers and numerous programs available for improving or maintaining your language skills--surfing the net in a different language, sending e-mail to foreign countries, or spell-checking your language papers.
Collaborate one-on-one with professors who are published researchers and practitioners. They will not only help you hone your language skills; they will foster your global consciousness and help you on your career path.