Modern Foreign Languages
Dr. Karla González and Dr. Rubí Ugofsky-Méndez,
Co-Chairs of Modern Foreign Languages and ESOL Co-Directors
The Modern Foreign Languages Department has the principal goal of promoting the study of modern foreign languages, cultures, and literatures. The department currently offers Spanish and American Sign Language. In support of this primary aim, it also endeavors (l) to emphasize the development of both oral and written proficiency in the foreign language according to guidelines published by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL), (2) to provide the highest quality, most up-to-date, practical instruction in foreign languages and cultures and in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), (3) to introduce students to the experience of reading Spanish literature in the original language, (4) to produce students able to read the Bible in a foreign language with relative ease and able to perform ministry in a foreign culture, (5) to provide students with insight into the culture of the language, and (6) to provide information about employment in bilingual jobs and careers.
A Bachelor of Arts degree requires 14 hours (4 semesters or the equivalent level of achievement) of a foreign language. All four semesters must be in the same language. See the catalog for requirements for other degrees. Some courses have course fees.
Elementary and intermediate foreign language courses emphasize the development of both oral and written communication skills. Small group conversational practice, on-line workbooks, computer programs, and peer tutoring, are offered as reinforcements. Additionally, study abroad programs, summer intensive programs and professional Spanish courses may be offered.
SPAN 3330 and
SPAN 3340 are open to departmental credit by examination. The CLEP exam is available for students who wish to challenge the elementary and intermediate levels of Spanish, French or German. A placement test is available for students with previous experience in formal or informal Spanish. Students may also place out of American Sign Language through a departmental placement interview. Students can place out of, but not receive credit for, the 1410/1420 levels of these languages. AP (Advanced Placement) and IB (International Baccalaureate) credit is accepted for Spanish and French. Exams are also available for many other languages through the Foreign Language Achievement Testing Service (FLATS).
The department also offers courses in “English for Speakers of Other Languages” (ESOL) to incoming international students. For information, please refer to English Proficiency Guidelines