You have entered a community of about 2,000 students learning languages and about 250 students who have chosen to study languages as their undergraduate focus.
Mission:
Our mission is to provide language learning within cultural contexts. The study of languages and cultures enriches students’ lives by allowing them to explore different world views and concepts through immersion experiences in the classroom, community and abroad. In the global market, proficiency in languages and knowledge of diverse cultures also creates greater potential for career opportunities. As part of its mission, the Department of Languages:
- teaches American Sign Language, Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Russian and Spanish, from beginning to various levels of proficiency
- deepens students' understanding of cultural diversity
- encourages students to study abroad
- works with local, national, and international organizations, including the Anchorage School District, the Alaska Court System, and governmental and nonprofit organizations.
BA Program Outcomes:
Graduates of the Department of Languages must:
- Demonstrate intermediate oral proficiency level according to ACTFL (American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages) guidelines;
- Demonstrate the ability to build on knowledge of and proficiency in the language and culture studied over time.
