Major

Comparative Languages and Linguistics

As a comparative languages and linguistics major, you’ll select two of the languages that we teach and critically examine their structure, functions and corresponding cultures in both language-specific courses as well as linguistics courses that are taught in English. Your required off-campus study experience will ensure that your language study is grounded in a specific community and will help you develop lifelong personal and professional connections.

CLL majors will select two languages from the following list:  French, Japanese, Latin, Spanish, and English. Neither language can be the student's first or "mother" tongue. 

To earn a Bachelor of Arts in comparative languages and linguistics, you must complete the following courses, in addition to general education requirements:

  • One course designated as Writing Intensive (WI) and one course designated as Research Intensive (RCH).
  • One semester-length, off-campus study with courses taught in one of the selected languages.
  • One course in linguistics, chosen from:
Course Code
Title
Credit Hours
Sub-Total Credit Hours
3-4

In addition:

  • For Spanish and French students must take a minimum of two courses numbered above the 310-level and taught in the target language.
  • For Japanese, students must complete two language courses at the 300-level or demonstrate the equivalent proficiency level. They also must take two courses related to history, film or culture for Japanese. These courses may be listed or cross-listed under Japanese Studies.
  • For Latin, students must complete ANCS 342 Reading Latin and take a minimum of 12 additional non-language credits (four courses) related to the study of Latin.
  • Neither language can be the student’s first or “mother” tongue.
  • For English (only an option for students whose “mother” tongue is a different language), students must complete two courses at the 300 level or above related to the culture, sociology, anthropology, history, politics, etc. of the United States (or English-speaking countries where English is the dominant language, like Canada or New Zealand). These may either be courses with the Diversity – Domestic (D-D) attribute or those approved by the CLL convener.
Sub-Total Credit Hours
6-12

91% of work seekers who majored in the natural sciences between 2018-2022 were employed, pursuing graduate school or volunteering within six months of graduation.

Careers

Recent graduates have gone on to careers in education, journalism and non-profit service organizations.

Outcomes

Current alums are teaching English around the world, working in publishing and doing graduate work in international studies.

What types of jobs and graduate school programs do graduates pursue?

Recent graduates have found jobs in education, publishing, technical writing and journalism, among other areas.

What kind of research experience and internships are available?

Recent students in this program have interned at the Nibutani Ainu Culture Museum in Japan, Stepping Stones China and Space Media Japan, among other places.