Language degree may be pursued at different levels including certificates, associate, bachelors, masters, and doctorate degrees. The level that you decide to pursue will depend on your prior education and career objectives. A master or doctorate degree in language is recommended for those who wish to conduct research or pursue a career in the post-secondary education sector.
Program Curriculum
The primary focus of language degrees is to develop the student's linguistic skills, literary appreciation, and an understanding of people and their culture. There are many variations in the degrees offered by different institutes. Some programs may require you to choose a particular language in which you could specialize: French, German, Spanish, Italian, Russian, Chinese, Japanese, and many more. The coursework generally prepares students for presenting ideas and information in a foreign language to a group of listeners or readers. Other important learning outcomes of the degree include the ability to translate and interpret foreign language and engage in conversation or correspondence. Students are also encouraged to develop proficiency in the cultural as well as sociolinguistics (relationship between language and social theories) aspects of a foreign language.
Although the curriculum will vary depending on the institute at which you are enrolled, below is a list of examples of courses that you may come across:
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Language skills through the advanced level
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Intermediate Language
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Advanced Language
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History of Civilization
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Major Writers/Masterpieces of Literature
The type and range of courses will also depend on the level at which you are enrolled.
Besides foreign language degrees, students may also complete a program in English as a Second Language (ESL). These programs are relevant not only for non-native English speakers, but they may also be pursued by those who want to teach English as a second language. These include Teaching English to Speakers of other Languages (TESOL). It includes both Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) and Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL). TESL is appropriate for those who want to teach students in an English speaking country whose first language is not English. TEFL, on the other hand, is acquired by those who intend to teach English in a country where it is not the official language.
Online Education
Due to an increasing trend of distance learning, you may choose the opportunity of enrolling in an online languages program. Online education has several benefits. It is particularly suitable for those who are already working and do not want to give up their current job. You'll be able to manage your professional responsibilities alongside your education. Before you choose a particular program, you should find out about the reputation and accreditation of the online program.
Employment Opportunities
Graduates with a degree in a certain language typically go on to pursue various careers including:
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Teaching
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Translating
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Interpreting
You may seek employment in the private or public sector. Jobs in the government sector include linguistic specialist, Foreign Service officer, or official interpreter. These degrees will be useful if you wish to work in the hospitality industry. Many professionals, like tourist guides, flight attendants, and hotel managers, need to have knowledge of multiple languages. A language program may also enable you to develop many general skills that could be applied in different careers.