University of Dayton, Ohio

Welcome to the Department of Global Languages and Cultures

Language is key to increasing one's understanding of today's world. The internationalization of travel, the arts, media, politics, science and technology, and the economic interdependence of the world's nations have caused a demand for the multilingual professional. This increasingly multinational character of American society itself demonstrates the importance of foreign languages in nearly every occupation.

The Department of Global Languages and Cultures offers Bachelor of Arts degrees in French, German, Italian, and Spanish as well as instruction in Arabic, Mandarin Chinese, Latin, and Russian. Because immersion is one of the most complete ways to develop language skills, we offer language programs in Costa Rica, France, Germany, and Spain.

Academic Programs

The Department of Global Languages and Cultures at the University of Dayton offers majors in French, German, and Spanish, as well as instruction in Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), Italian, Latin and Russian. A major in Italian can be arranged. Courses offered in the Department of Global Languages and Cultures fall into one of three categories: language skill courses, linguistics and language instruction courses, and literature and culture courses. Language skills courses offer students the opportunity to develop proficiency/functional ability in reading, writing, listening, speaking and cultural awareness, so effective communication with people from other cultures is achieved whether at home or abroad. Linguistic and foreign language instruction courses provide a foundation for comprehending the complexity of language acquisition and methodological approaches. Literature and culture courses expand the understanding and appreciation of the "other" through literary texts, films, art, history, traditions, and study abroad programs.

The University offers a teaching licensure option in French, German and Spanish to students enrolled in Department of Global Languages and Cultures programs. Students must satisfy all of the requirements in the department, as well as the requirements designated by the School of Education and Allied Professions for teacher licensure by the state of Ohio.

Careers

A foreign language can enhance many careers. Below is just a partial list of careers in which a language skill can make a big difference:

BUSINESS

Business Executives, Sales Personnel, Personnel Managers, Public Relations Experts, U.S. Representatives for International Companies, International Banking, Investment Firms, Import/Export Companies, Chambers of Commerce, International Lawyers and Patent Attorneys, Receptionists, Secretaries,  Fashion Buyers.

COMMUNICATIONS

International News Correspondents; International News Photographers; Translators of Books, Articles, and Articles; Advertising for Ethnic or International Markets; Film Production; Entertainment Media; Interpreters; Voice of American Writers and Editors; International Teletype Operators; International Telephone Operators.

EDUCATION

Elementary Teachers for Bilingual Programs, High School and Special Teachers for Bilingual Education, Foreign Language Teacher Education, University Comparative Literature Departments, University Language Departments, University Linguistics Departments, University Schools of Education, University Teaching English as a Second Language, Overseas Teaching  for Private Corporations, Textbook Editors, Textbook Authors.

GOVERNMENT

Federal Trade Commission, Consumer Affairs Office, Vista, Foreign Service Department, Federal Communications Commission, Peace Corps, Commerce Department, National Archives, Agency of International Development, Education Department, Civil Service Commission, Immigration and Naturalization Services, Customs, Library of Congress, Court Interpretation, UN Translators and Interpreters, CIA, CID, FBI), Armed Forces, International Cooperation Administration, U.S. Information Agency, Diplomats, Consuls, Commercial Attaches.

LIBRARIANSHIP

Translators of International Publications in Private and Public Libraries, Classifiers of International Documents, Employees with USIS Overseas, Research Assistants.

SCIENTIFIC FIELDS

Archaeology, Museum Employees, Medical Professions in International Communities in the U.S. and/or abroad, Hospital Management, Scientific Research and Translating, Technical Liaison for U.S. Business Operating Internationally, Technology.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Nursing in International Communities, Law Enforcement Officers, Welfare Interviewers, Health Services, Income Tax Consultants, Missionary Work, Red Cross, Social Worker.

TRAVEL SERVICES

Travel Agents, Airline Hostesses and Stewards, Airport Personnel, International Travel Advisors, Tourist Guides, U.S. Conference Welcoming Groups, Hotel Employees, Restaurant Employees.

Opportunities & Activities

Our majors can choose from several curricular and extra-curricular activities to enhance their learning experience. Learn about internships, service, research and more from the links at right.

Faculty & Staff

The faculty and staff of the Department of Global Languages and Cultures invite you to meet us and find out what we have to offer.

Contact Us

Please contact us for more information about our programs. We look forward to hearing from you.

Office Information

Department of Global Languages and Cultures
University of Dayton
Jesse Phillips Humanities Center Room 352
300 College Park
Dayton, Ohio 45469-1539

Phone: 937-229-2449
Fax: 937-229-4330