Foreign languages graduates don't just imagine these things, they do them. And by combining a foreign languages major with a specific double major, minor, or concentration in a compatible discipline Ñ like education, computer science, social work, communications, or journalism Ñ graduates are ready to launch exciting careers.

The foreign languages department, with major programs in French, German, Italian, and Spanish, builds the communication skills and cultural savvy you need to open doors to the places you've imagined. Through a carefully selected sequence of courses, majors increase their skills, developing proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing their new language. They also delve into the country's literature, history, and culture, gaining an authentic sense of the region and its people.

The learning doesn't stop at the classroom door. Students have the chance to socialize, share ideas, and practice their language skills in the active language clubs at Southern. Members of the French Club, for example, might enjoy a dinner at a French restaurant, head into New York for a performance, or celebrate a holiday French-style.

Southern's faculty believes the best way to understand a language is to experience it firsthand: taste the strudel in Dusseldorf, say, or watch the flamenco in Seville. In other words: study abroad and live, breathe and experience the country and culture, practicing your new language every chance you get.

Currently, Southern offers established study abroad opportunities in Salamanca, Spain, and Urbino, Italy, and an exchange program with Baden-WŸrttenburg, Germany. Southern also sponsors summer programs in France, Italy, Mexico, and Spain. Motivated students may also be eligible for internship opportunities in government or business.

The department also offers courses in Japanese, Latin, and Russian.

This specialization is offered jointly by the departments of English and Foreign Languages. Students may focus on comparative literature or world literature. Comparative literature requires the knowledge of two languages, one of which may be English. Students develop a broad familiarity with the literature of these two languages, gradually narrowing the scope to an intensive examination of a particular period, genre, or literary movement. Comparative literature explores the literary traditions of various countries, focusing on a period, genre, or literary movement.

For more information, call the Department of Foreign Languages at (203)392-6770.