Are you interested in learning more than one language and about languages in general? The major in Modern language Studies allows you to focus on studying a modern language of your choice while being exposed to other languages of interest, and the inclusion of selected foundational linguistics courses will help deepen your understanding as you acquire meta-linguistic knowledge of languages in general. The result is an increased understanding of the nature of human language including heightened general and intercultural communication skills that are highly valued in many different career sectors.

You are encouraged, although not a requirement of the major, to complete an immersion or experiential learning component throughout the course of your studies.

Languages of study include French, German, Inuttitut, Italian, Japanese, Russian, Spanish, or other courses designated as language study courses.

Jump to

• Admission requirements
• Your first year
• Sample courses and degree map
• Career opportunities

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Admission requirements to degree

Applications are considered on a rolling basis. You are encouraged to apply by:

You may apply for admission into the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences by indicating bachelor of arts as your program choice on the undergraduate application for admission. Direct entry into the faculty is subject to your meeting the general admission requirements for Memorial University.

You may choose modern language studies as your major at the time of application or you can explore your options and declare a major in a later semester by emailing registrar@mun.ca to make your choice official.

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Your first year

Considering a major in modern language studies? Have a look at a sample schedule for a first-year student studying five courses per semester.

1. Students are required four courses (12 credit hours) in consecutive courses in Language A and two courses (6 credit hours) in consecutive courses in Language B. Students interested in French should refer to the French course criteria chart prior to selecting their first French course. Selection of a French course depends on your background and ability in the French language.

Further assistance

For assistance with course selection, contact the Academic Advising Centre.

For additional program information, visit the Department of Modern Languages, Literatures and Cultures or contact the undergraduate program director.

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Sample courses and degree map

FREN 2900 - Survol des cultures francophones (A Survey of Francophone Cultures)
FREN 3506 - Cinéma francophone (French Cinema)
FREN 3651 - Culture québécoise (Quebec Culture)

Modern language studies degree map

Degree maps are navigational tools, designed to help you make the right choices throughout your bachelor of arts degree. They cover information pertaining to your studies, provide study tips, career guidance, suggestions for involvement, advice on go abroad activities and on your well being.

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Career opportunities

In the 21st century, the ability to communicate at the international level is an essential skill that is greatly valued in several areas including:

• education (translation, research, teaching, library work, graduate studies)
• business and industry (banking, journalism, export/import, advertising, publishing)
• social work (police work, health sector, courts)
• government services (customs, civil service, external affairs, immigration)

Note: some of these careers may call for supplementary education or preparation in the form of graduate studies, experiential learning or professional courses and exams.

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