Curriculum

The Department of Languages provides a multifaceted, innovative curriculum in language, literature, culture, and second language acquisition.  The Department offers majors in French, Spanish, and Teaching English as a Second Language with the option of teacher licensure in all areas.  The Department’s commitment to a strong interdisciplinary approach to the study of language and culture is reflected in the variety and scope of courses offered, as well as the numerous opportunities to enhance on-campus coursework with off-campus international and domestic programs. 

The French and Spanish majors offer three track options allowing students to direct their courses of study to fit career goals.  All 37 hours of the major are to be in one language unless the student has received prior written permission from the faculty.  A minimum of 15 hours, including 490, of the major must be earned under the direct supervision of the faculty of Union University.  Permission for substitutions in the stated curriculum should be requested prior to enrollment in an alternate course.  Credit for work done prior to enrollment at Union University is subject to review by the Department.  See Department guidelines for information regarding special or independent studies and study abroad credit.  International Business majors with the minor in French or Spanish may choose either the Language and Culture or Literature and Culture track.

Students are strongly urged to complete the immersion experience required for French and Spanish majors (a minimum of 3 hours of course credit) prior to the last semester of study at Union and to enroll in at least one language course after the experience.  See Department guidelines for details about planning study abroad.

The Teaching English as a Second Language major, with its strong emphasis in applied linguistics and with its numerous field experience opportunities, provides a supportive and substantive framework for participants to develop their understanding of language and to explore their own development as language teachers.  This 34-credit hour program is designed for individuals seeking employment teaching English as a second or foreign language in the US or overseas.