UW Department of Modern and Classical Languages Launches New Degree Program

The University of Wyoming’s Department of Modern and Classical Languages, housed within the College of Arts and Sciences, is launching a new bachelor’s degree program starting this fall.

The bachelor’s degree in European languages, literature and film studies builds upon existing UW language minors and established humanities coursework in French, German and Spanish. UW students who enroll in the program will become informed international citizens and will develop effective multilingual and cultural communication expertise and problem-solving skills.

“Language forms the foundation for subsequent learning,” says Joy Landeira, head of the Department of Modern and Classical Languages. “At UW, we understand that we form more meaningful and respectful relationships with our partners in the global economy and world affairs when we dialogue with them in their own languages.”

To critically investigate the idea of Europe, students will expand beyond their base language and learn about the complexities and interconnectedness of European cultures.

This open, pluralistic, multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary approach will explore a wide range of fields, including language, literature, film, philosophy, linguistics, history, politics, ethics, popular culture, humanities and the performing and visual arts. Studying abroad also will be encouraged for all students in the program.

“Employers seek students with strong multilingual communicative skills in reading, writing and speaking and with international cultural understanding and experience. Graduate schools welcome well-rounded students whose undergraduate degrees prepare them for a variety of subjects,” she adds.

Bilingual and multilingual graduates of this program can go on to pursue advanced degrees in language, literature and film/cinema/media studies and digital humanities, and they can qualify for a wide range of job opportunities in European and international business, science/technology, medicine, tourism and other settings.

“The college is pleased that Modern and Classical Languages is developing such an innovative degree program that will help students launch their careers after college,” says Scott Turpen, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “In today’s world, employers are seeking college graduates who possess essential skills that a degree like this will deliver.”

To learn more about this degree program, email Landeira at jlandeir@uwyo.edu.