Languages and Cultures

The Department of Languages and Cultures (LANC) at Chico State offers majors and minors in French, German, Spanish (General and Pre-Credential), Asian Studies, and Latin American Studies, as well as minors in Italian, Japanese, African Studies, European Studies, and Middle Eastern Studies. In addition, the department offers an MA degree in Language Teaching and a Graduate TESOL Certificate. 

Majoring in a language means studying the language and culture of the people and places where the language is spoken. Knowledge of a foreign language deepens understanding of one's own language and culture and contributes toward a greater appreciation of other cultures. Area studies majors further attain an interdisciplinary perspective on a diverse region of the world. Our programs are designed to help students develop the linguistic and cultural knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to a multilingual, international society.

Many LANC students opt to spend part of their time as a student at Chico State studying abroad. A multitude of opportunities exist -- there is quite literally a program to fit every student's needs. Whether you choose to spend a year abroad through one of the California State University International Programs (CSU IP), or a year, semester, or summer through AIFS, USAC, direct exchange, or via a faculty-led program abroad in one of dozens of countries, you will be able to apply that academic work toward a major or minor in languages and/or area studies, as well as toward another major or minor and/or General Education and other graduation requirements. A program advisor in LANC or a study abroad advisor can help you choose the program that is right for you.

Intercultural competence opens the door to many exciting careers. Competency in a world language and/or a degree in area studies leads to careers in international business, marketing, foreign intelligence and diplomacy, travel and tourism, entertainment, media and public relations, communications, teaching, translation/interpretation, and many service professions, to name but a few. At the same time, in today's globalized world, a language and/or area studies major enhances a candidate's attractiveness to employers in most career fields. Proficiency in another language, but also the cultural awareness and general communication skills that are attained as part of the major are highly valued by employers.