The Department of Modern Languages & Literatures offers programs in French, German, Spanish and Portuguese, and occasional courses in other languages, such as Chinese and Russian, which are offered for credit, but do not apply toward a program. The department offers teaching and liberal arts majors in French and Spanish; and minors and certifications in French, Spanish and German. The study of languages provides an excellent liberal arts education; virtually any career is enhanced and opportunities increased by knowledge of languages, especially in our present globalized culture and economy.
The Language Laboratory was renovated in recent years to more fully integrate the advantages of NMU's Laptop Computer program. In addition to wireless (and wired) access to the world wide web, the Lab offers two high-end desktops, a library of software in all languages served, and authoring software for the creation of individualized multimedia programs. Audiotape and films in the target languages are available for group or personal viewing, in conjunction with classes or individual interests. Tutoring is available each semester. The phone number to the Lab is 2043.
Students who study any language are encouraged to study abroad for at least one semester to improve their language skills and to become more familiar with the target culture. Students returned every year from rewarding experiences in Europe, Central and South America, and the Orient. NMU students may choose a plan of study from the Midwest Consortium programs in Spain, Italy, Austria, and Mexico in consultation with International Affairs office. In addition, students may design their own custom program anywhere in the world, in consultation with Languages faculty and their major advisors to receive NMU credit. Students from other disciplines are welcome to pursue their studies abroad as well.
The department of Modern Languages & Literatures is the advising department for three different interdisciplinary programs: the International Studies major and minor and the Latin American Studies minor. The IS major requires study abroad and substantial language work as well as offering a flexible menu of interdisciplinary options to complete the degree. The Latin American Studies minor (new in 1998) requires a core exposure of HS 251 or SN 314; and advanced language work in Spanish or Portuguese (offered odd years). Electives include 12 credits selected from offerings of appropriate world literatures offerings in Languages or the English Department, and geography, art, history, language or culture courses related to Latin America. A substantial part of this minor may be completed abroad if desired.