The B.A. in World Languages prepares students to speak, understand, read, and write
in non-English languages in a variety of cultural contexts and industries, including
health care, law enforcement, international business, industry, government, non-profits,
and NGO's. Students may opt for a single-language concentration (Spanish, Japanese,
or German) or a dual-language concentration with any two of the offered languages.
Where You'll Go
Employers in almost every career field value having bilingual staff members giving
you a variety of job options in the private and public sectors. Another popular, and
in-demand, career is working as a translator or interpreter, a job that can have you
working in the court system, hospitals and a variety of other locations. The Bureau
of Labor Statistics states the average salary for translators and interpreters is
$49,110 (as of 2021) and expects the job field to grow by 20% by the year 2031, which
is much faster than the average growth rate of jobs overall.
No grade below a C- will count toward the major. Graduating seniors must take a proficiency
test as assigned by the advisor. The test will be arranged and paid for by the Department
of World Languages, and students will receive a certificate of language proficiency
issued by an independent, nationally recognized assessor. Additionally, students are
required to participate in an approved immersion experience in their chosen language.
The B.A. World Languages Spanish Concentration program at WCU prepares students for
careers in education, international business, translation, government, and beyond.
The Japanese concentrationfocuses on the mastery of spoken and written Japanese and
includes courses in beginning, intermediate, and advanced Japanese language, as well
as content courses about Japanese culture taught in English, such as Anime and Manga,
Japanese cinema,
Our German program includes a BA in World Languages with a German concentration as
well as a minor, both of which offer a valuable and tangible supplement to students
studying to eventually work in the fields of engineering, technology, chemistry, music,
and the automotive industry.
You can use your electives to focus on one of 10 specializations. Choose from areas
such as Accounting, Construction Management, Sport Management, and more.
WCU’s Humanities programs embrace interdisciplinary study of language, culture, history,
philosophy, and global perspectives — offering students pathways to enrich their world
view, understand diverse societies, and prepare for socially engaged, globally aware
careers.
You can use your electives to focus on one of 10 specializations. Choose from areas
such as Accounting, Construction Management, Sport Management, and more.
