Modern Languages and Cultures
Imagine not only studying a language, but also immersing yourself in the culture that speaks that language. At Albion, we do both.
Our department offers majors in French, German, and Spanish. Through our courses, you’ll discover how people in other parts of the world think and express their ideas and beliefs, all while practicing your language of study. You’ll learn about the history, customs, and ways of life of different groups and people, and build your listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills.
You’ll work with native-speaking teaching assistants and students in advanced language courses. You’ll practice your communication skills by living in I-Space, our international language living and learning area. Then, you’ll take your learning beyond campus in one of our study away programs that offer immersion in French, German, or Spanish culture and language.
You’ll become adept in the communication skills that are necessary in a French-, German-, or Spanish-speaking workplace, learn the important lessons of history that are needed to understand contemporary issues, and address complex questions of identity that are at the heart of any language.
Beyond the Classroom
Fluency in more than one language and understanding other cultures are essential skills for living and working in our increasingly internationalized world. As a student of French, German, or Spanish, you’ll learn through doing, immersing yourself in the language and culture you’re studying–on campus and abroad.
I-Space
As a language major or minor at Albion College, you’ll spend a semester living in I-Space, our international language living and learning area. This residential space serves as a “living laboratory” where you can practice conversational skills with fellow students and native speakers.
Study Away
As a student of modern languages and cultures, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture and language you’re studying through off-campus programs in Argentina, Austria, Chile, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, France, Germany, Senegal, and Spain.
Native Speaker Teaching Assistant Program
Native Speaker Teaching Assistants (NSTAs) are university students in their early twenties from French, Spanish, or German-speaking countries that spend one academic year at Albion College as an on-degree student. Native Speakers live alongside language students in the I-Space in Fiske House to encourage and give residents more opportunities to use their target language.
Modern Languages and Cultures (MLAC) Courses
Through our courses, you’ll learn to engage authentically and adapt to new cultures with ease, communicating effectively in French, German or Spanish. Explore courses offered by our department and courses accepted for transfer credit.