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Modern Languages & Cultures

Modern Languages & Cultures Undergraduate Curricular Requirements

French (B.A.)

Foreign Language (B.A.)

Spanish (B.A.)

Classical Studies Minor

French Minor

German Minor

Spanish Minor

Richard B. Spence, Dept. Chair (315 Admin. Bldg. 83844-3175; phone 208/885-6253; forlang@uidaho.edu). Faculty: Demetrio Anzaldo-Gonzales (Spanish), Irina A. Kappler-Crookston (Spanish), Rosanna Lauriola (Classics), Sarah M. Nelson (French), Ruthanne Orihuela (Spanish), Guadalupe Perez-Anzaldo (Spanish), Anne Perriguey (French), Gerd Steckel (German), Ikuyo Suzuki (Japanese).

The study of a foreign language and literature is a way of expanding one's horizons while developing specific linguistic skills that will enhance career, academic, and travel opportunities. One of the many benefits derived from foreign-language study is the ability to transcend linguistic and cultural parochialism. To understand the uniqueness of one's own language and civilization, knowledge of another culture is essential. Language study is the key that unlocks the mysteries surrounding a foreign people. Through language, one is able to explore their literature, art, history, and philosophy--in short, their way of life. In preparing to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing and interdependent world, foreign language expertise plays an increasingly important role. In many areas (business, education, communications, social work, technical and engineering positions, science, law, medicine, etc.), knowledge of a second language is not only desirable but necessary.

The Department of Modern Languages & Cultures offers a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in two modern languages (Spanish and French). The department also offers elementary and intermediate level course work in German, Japanese and introductory courses in Nez Perce language. In addition, a cooperative course agreement with Washington State University in nearby Pullman makes it possible for students to complete basic course work in Chinese, Italian and Russian.

The department's business option offer students the opportunity to combine the advanced study of a foreign language with pre-professional course work . Similarly, the international studies major allows students to combine advanced foreign language study with a specific issue and area study focus.

Language instruction at UI is proficiency-oriented in approach and encourages active student involvement from the outset. Language classes are small enough to allow for instructor-student interaction and to ensure that each student receives individual attention. Classroom instruction is supported by a fully equipped language learning laboratory with facilities for audiocassette, and videocassette instruction, as well as international television programming, and computer assisted learning software.

Foreign language majors are required to spend a semester or year studying abroad in an international exchange program. Foreign language faculty advisors and the staff of the UI International Programs Office will gladly assist students in planning a study abroad experience.

If a student has already studied a foreign language in high school, he or she may be eligible to receive vertically-related course credits simply by completing a more advanced course at UI.

Courses

See the course description section for courses in English (FLEN), Arabic (Arbc), Chinese (Chin), French (Fren), German (Germ), Ancient Greek (Grek), Japanese (Japn), Latin (Latn), Nez Perce (NezP), Russian (Russ), and Spanish (Span). , and General Courses (FL).