Languages, Literatures and International Studies
As a welcoming community of international scholars, we provide a crucial component of NMU's undergraduate curriculum. Our courses and programs challenge students to cultivate global competencies in languages, literatures, and cultures. The knowledge and skills students gain with us prepare them for a variety of professions, and are complementary and invaluable to the fields and careers students pursue across campus and around the world.
Why study a language?
Career Preparation
INCREASE YOUR CAPACITY TO…
- understand and synthesize information quickly
- communicate in a clear way to clients or upper management
- grasp the big picture and solve problems quickly
- interact effectively with diverse colleagues and clients
- generate new approaches to solve problems with critical thinking skills
- turn creativity into innovation
Academic Excellence
BOOST YOUR SKILLS FOR…
- improved problem-solving, communication, analysis, listening, concentration, multitasking, decision-making and memory
- increased creativity and the ability to deal with abstract concepts
- enhanced testing abilities
- better grades
Mental Health
STAY BALANCED BY…
- setting achievable goals to avoid stress
- building community with fellow language learners
- learning to thrive in ambiguity
- discovering new cultures and literatures
- traveling and exploring the world
And, if you’re thinking of the future… language study has been shown to slow down cognitive decline.
Programs Offered
Spanish
Offering the Spanish major, two minors, three levels of certifications, and even secondary education options, there are a multitude of ways to incorporate Spanish language and culture into your undergraduate studies here at Northern.
French
This is an interdisciplinary program that encompasses the richness of the French and Francophone world and offers an intellectually diverse program that includes literature, culture, film, art, and philosophy.
German Studies
German Studies is a transnational and interdisciplinary program that encompasses the various German-speaking regions of central Europe and offers an intellectually diverse program—covering literature, history, politics, the arts, and philosophy.
International Studies
This all-encompassing program provides students with a basic understanding of modern world history, international relations, world cultures, and world religions. Part of this learning, as well as intensive language instruction, takes place abroad.
Deaf Studies
Northern Michigan University’s Deaf Studies program was established to create social cross-cultural connections between the Deaf and hearing communities. Grounding the program in American Sign Language, students participate in social settings, applying new ASL skills to personal lives and/or social employment settings.
Workplace Intercultural Competency
The Workplace Intercultural Competency program provides students with a foundation in language study, culture, intercultural communication, and management skills so they can succeed in the management of diverse workplaces.
What you'll do in the LLIS department
Study art, language, and culture all over the world. Join a language club to cook, dance, and converse together. Immerse yourself in novels, newspapers, and magazines from around the world in our library. Harness technology to see, hear, and create multimedia in our Language Resource Center or on your NMU-issued notebook computer. Compete on campus during Spanish Day. Choose another country to intern as an English teacher. The opportunities for involvement and growth are as unlimited as your adventurous spirit!
Online Language Placement Test
Do you have previous language experience? Our free online placement test will help you determine the ideal Spanish, French, or German course based on your language skills.
Northern students love to explore: Learn a new language! We also offer introductory classes in American Sign Language and Chinese. Many of our language courses also count towards General Education requirements.
Visit our language tutors!
We offer virtual Zoom tutoring and in-person tutoring in the Language Resource Center located at 203A Harden Hall. Tutoring is available for ASL, Chinese, French, German, and Spanish.
Click the Language Resource Center button below for the tutoring schedule, how to get there, and helpful tutoring FAQs.
Giving to the Department
If you're interested in donating to our department, please follow the link below.
