Program Overview

Modern Languages and Intercultural Communication, B.A.

The Saint Louis University Bachelor of Arts in Modern Languages and Intercultural Communications is a unique program that combines language proficiency with intercultural communication skills. This major is designed for students who are passionate about languages and culture and seek to enhance their career opportunities in an international setting.

Overview

The program is a collaboration between the SLU's Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures and the SLU-Madrid's Department of ESL, Modern Languages and Education. It consists of 32 credits that include three foreign languages, linguistics and intercultural communication classes, and a practicum experience abroad or in a context in which a foreign language predominates.

Curriculum Overview

The major requires 32 credits, including:

• 18 credits of language requirements, with students taking six credits in three different languages
• 3 credits of communication requirements, with courses such as Intercultural Communication, Language Acquisition, or Language and Society
• 3 credits of linguistics requirements, with courses such as Introduction to Linguistics, Language and Linguistics, or Linguistic Anthropology
• 3 credits of intercultural requirements, with courses such as Speaking in (Inter)Cultural Context, Modern Languages and Intercultural Competence, or Cultural Anthropology
• 3 credits of elective courses, with options such as World Archaeology, Art and Politics, or Cross-Cultural Psychology of Human Development
• 2 credits of capstone requirements, with a practicum experience and a reflection on intercultural experiences

Learning Outcomes

Students in this program will be able to:

• Communicate at least at an intermediate mid/B2 level in one foreign language, at an intermediate low/B1 level in a second foreign language, and at an elementary/A2 level in a third foreign language
• Demonstrate knowledge of the different aspects of human communication, including the relationship between language, behavior, culture, and mind
• Communicate with speakers of other languages in culturally appropriate ways
• Articulate the self-development of an intercultural identity and demonstrate how this is impacted by multiple cultural influences

Fieldwork and Research Opportunities

The program provides opportunities for practicum, internship, and career readiness. Department faculty assist students in finding internships in the St. Louis area, Madrid, and other study abroad locations. Being plurilingual and interacting effectively with people from other cultures provides students with a wider range of fieldwork and job opportunities.

Careers

A degree in Modern Languages and Intercultural Communication will enhance employment prospects in any area that requires communication with people from other cultural backgrounds, such as:

• Administrative work
• Diplomatic service
• Foreign service
• Health care
• International business
• International law
• Law enforcement
• Media
• Scientific research
• Translation and interpretation
• Travel and tour guides
• United Nations

Tuition and Fees

Tuition per year is $56,960, with additional charges applying. The university offers scholarships and financial aid to help students finance their education.

Admission

The application deadlines are May 1 for fall admission and September 1 for spring admission. Students can apply through the SLU-Madrid application process.

Faculty

The faculty at Saint Louis University-Madrid are experts in their respective fields, with international recognition as teachers, researchers, and mentors.

Program Notes

The program is designed to be completed on either the St. Louis or Madrid campuses, or through coursework on both campuses. Students have the option to study abroad at the St. Louis campus or at one of the university's peer AAICU institutions. The program is aimed at students who have a passion for languages and culture and seek to enhance their communicative skills and career opportunities in an international setting.