Marywood University

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary undergraduate programme blends language acquisition, comparative literature, and core linguistics. You will normally focus on one primary Romance language (commonly Spanish or French, with opportunities to study Italian or other Romance varieties) while taking a sequence of courses in phonetics, morphology, syntax and language change. Typical modules include introductory and advanced language courses, conversation and composition, surveys of poetry and prose in the target language, translation and interpreting practicum, sociolinguistics, and historical linguistics.

• Core linguistics: introductory linguistics, phonetics and phonology, morphology and syntax, sociolinguistics and language acquisition.
• Language sequence: progressive courses in the chosen Romance language emphasising reading, writing, speaking and listening.
• Literature and culture: surveys of major literary periods, genre studies, film and cultural studies in the language’s cultural sphere.
• Applied skills: translation, interpreting, advanced composition, pedagogy of language learning and language assessment.
• Capstone and practicum: senior seminar, research project or internship; opportunities for community-based teaching and service learning.

Students are encouraged to take electives in related departments (education, international studies, communication) and to pursue study-abroad or exchange programmes to gain immersive language experience. Small classes and direct faculty mentoring support development of both analytical and communicative competence.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high-school diploma or equivalent with a record of academic achievement. Successful candidates typically demonstrate proficiency in and commitment to language study through previous coursework in a foreign language, writing samples, or a personal statement discussing language goals. Marywood may require placement testing in the language to determine appropriate course level.

• Academic record: competitive high-school performance with evidence of readiness for university-level study.
• Language background: prior study of a Romance language is beneficial but beginners with a strong interest in languages are also considered.
• International applicants: must demonstrate English proficiency through an approved test or alternative evidence of English-language ability.
• Other materials: transcripts and a personal statement are typically required; letters of recommendation may strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates leave equipped for a range of careers that value advanced communication skills, cultural literacy and analytical thinking. Common pathways include secondary or postsecondary language teaching (often combined with teacher certification), translation and interpreting, international business and marketing, nonprofit and international development work, government and diplomatic service, publishing and editing, and roles in tourism and cultural institutions.

The programme also prepares students for postgraduate study in linguistics, literary studies, applied linguistics (including TESOL) and related disciplines. Practical experiences such as internships, study abroad, and community language programs help make graduates competitive in the job market.

Why study at Marywood University

Marywood offers a personalised undergraduate environment with small class sizes, close faculty supervision, and a liberal arts approach that situates language study within broader cultural and ethical contexts. As a residential, student-centred university with active language and learning centres, Marywood supports immersive learning through study-abroad links, community engagement and practicum placements.

• Faculty mentoring: accessible faculty with expertise across linguistics, literature and applied language fields.
• Hands-on learning: opportunities for internships, community teaching and translation projects.
• Study abroad: pathways to build real-world language proficiency through immersion programmes.
• Support services: language labs, writing support and career services focused on preparing graduates for diverse global careers.