The Department of Modern Languages & Linguistics offers instruction in three languages: French, Japanese and Spanish (beginner to advanced).

In today's globalized context, students of modern languages are being prepared for membership in a global community that extends far beyond the boundaries of the English-speaking world. Modern Languages is about far more than just learning how to communicate in another language. It’s about exploring other identities and values through language, literature, history and culture in a global community.

Thanks to our small class size, innovative instructors and the latest in language-learning technology, we make language learning a lively and satisfying experience. At the beginners' and intermediate level we teach you to communicate with native speakers, orally and in writing, and introduce you to the everyday life of the speakers of French and Spanish as well as to their music, films and books. You can continue your study of spoken and written French and Spanish to an advanced level. Whatever the level and whatever the language, we teach our classes in the language being studied.

Students who study French/Spanish will gain awareness of other cultures through courses in language, literature, and culture and civilization, and through academic and living experiences in Canada or abroad.

Classes are taught in the language being studied — so, French courses are taught in French and Spanish classes in Spanish. You can specialize in one language or study a combination.

Off-campus study opportunities | All uLethbridge students can enjoy the life-changing experience of a study visit to Quebec or abroad. Recent examples include: France, Mexico, Ecuador, Argentina, Spain and Japan. Course credit acquired at the host university may be transferable back to the University of Lethbridge. Our Off-Campus Study Coordinators can help you plan your experience.

Minors | Adding a minor to your degree is a great way to explore academic interests beyond your major. A minor is a set of courses comprising a secondary focus of interest generally not related to your major. A minor may be required or optional.

Honours thesis | If your GPA is high enough in your fourth year, you can opt to complete an undergraduate thesis course. This is an excellent opportunity for you to earn an “Honours Thesis” designation on your degree.

Experience learning | Our students have a number of experiential learning opportunities available to them including co-operative education, international exchanges, independent and applied studies as well as volunteer opportunities. uLethbridge is the only university in Alberta to offer co-operative education to all majors in the arts & sciences, at both the undergrad and grad level. Transfer students can head out on their first work term before ever stepping foot on campus! For example, many transfer students have completed a summer work term before starting classes in September.

Skills acquired | Studying languages and linguistics is one of the best ways to improve your ability to express yourself, orally or in writing, not only in your chosen language(s), but in English as well. You’ll also develop your ability to conduct research, your attention to detail and your analytical skills. You’ll broaden your understanding of the world and learn to think “globally,” rather than “locally.” All of these capabilities are highly sought after and can be applied to practically any working scenario.