Foreign Languages

The Department of Foreign Languages offers majors in French, German, and Spanish, and secondary teacher certification in French, German, and Spanish; Italian at the elementary level; as well as minors in the three languages.

Why study a foreign language at Lebanon Valley College?

  • To communicate in a language or languages of your choice: French, German, or Spanish.
  • To learn about contemporary life, and have access to the culture, history, politics, literature, music, and art of other societies.
  • Because the combination of a foreign language major or minor with a business- or science-oriented field will help to assure success in the evolving world economy and in today's highly competitive international job market.
  • If you are interested in elementary or secondary education, you will find that additional certification in a language significantly enhances employment opportunities.
  • Because the members of the Foreign Languages Department offer personal attention and guidance to every student.
  • The faculty strikes an ideal balance between native speakers and American-born professors.
  • Classes are small and informal.
  • Study abroad is strongly encouraged either in one of the College's programs or in other approved programs, depending on your needs and interests.
  • You will be prepared to work and live in multicultural settings.
  • Language clubs will add further understanding of foreign language and culture with dinners, films, plays, traditional cultural dancing, and field trips. Members celebrate culture during International Culture Day.

Career opportunities in foreign languages

With an undergraduate degree in any of the foreign languages offered at Lebanon Valley College, you can pursue a career in:
  • Education
  • Diplomatic and government service
  • International trade and management
  • Business and social services
  • International banking
  • Travel industry

Whatever your career choices may be, you can be assured that in today's rapidly changing global marketplace, a language is a valuable asset. The Foreign Language Department's goal is not only to prepare you for a career, but also for an intellectually rewarding life.