The Department of European and Classical Languages and Cultures offers a wide range of courses at all levels of the undergraduate curriculum as part of its mission to advance, refine, and disseminate knowledge of the languages, literatures and cultures of Europe, both ancient and modern. At present the following languages are taught: Arabic, Chinese, Classical Greek, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Latin, and Russian. The program is designed to offer students an introduction to the language, literature, and culture of these language communities. Introductory courses are complemented by in-depth studies, providing opportunities to fulfill electives as well as to develop more specific interests of students in language and culture. The Department insists on a high level of competence in the language as the basis for all other options. In addition to classes at the College Station campus, the Department offers summer study programs for credit in France, Germany, and Russia. Semester and full-year programs abroad are also available and encouraged.
Degree candidates in Classics, French, German, and Russian are offered various options in addition to the Major: a Major in one foreign language with a Minor in another field; Major in one foreign language with a Minor in a second foreign language; a Major in one foreign language with a Major in a second foreign language or another academic field. The Department does not offer degrees in the other languages.
Departmental or Interdisciplinary Minors are available in Classical Studies, French, German, Italian, and Russian; in addition, the Minors in Hispanic Studies and Comparative Cultural Studies are an important option. In general, the careful combination of foreign language skills with other curricula enhances preparation for careers in business, industry, and government. Teaching Certification is available to majors through the College of Education and Human Development.