Learn a language! Go global!

Knowledge of languages and cultures is a competitive edge in the increasingly globalized and complex workplace of the 21st century. By studying literary and cultural values, both past and present, our students gain important insights that prepare them to confront the intellectual, social, and political challenges of the future. 

 

Student Stories

Student Lizetthe Moreno smiling on CUA campus
“I’m so grateful that CUA teaches you how to be a good thinker.” Lizetthe Moreno, Spanish for International Service major, received a prestigious Scholastic Leadership Scholarship from the National Defense Industrial Association. Read more about Lizetthe.
Student Justin Smith smiling in a lounge of the Busch School of Business.
“I was among the first of my friends to have a job offer.” While Justin Smith was studying abroad in France, he did Skype interviews with PwC for a coveted 10-week summer internship, which he landed, leading to his job offer. Read more about Justin.
Student Rory O’Connor smiling broadly in front of the US Capitol
"Catholic University is a perfect springboard for participation in all that D.C. has to offer — especially for an 18-year-old interested in foreign policy." Rory O'Connor, a politics major, immersed himself in Asian Issues in Washington D.C. Read more about Rory.
Student Will McGowan smiling broadly in front of a canal
Will McGowan combined a love of German culture with economics. "One of my long-term goals is to travel between the United States and Germany, either in the private sector or the public sector." Read more about Will.

Our Languages

  • Hernandez's Class

    ASL

    Our department offers two Introduction to American Sign Language courses, as well as advanced workshops in ASL storytelling.

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  • arabic class

    Arabic

    One of the most spoken languages in the world, Arabic opens doors to intercultural understanding, career opportunities, and international adventure.

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  • Hands writing Chinese characters

    Chinese

    The study of Mandarin Chinese is supported by a range of courses in language and culture, the Chinese Club, study-abroad opportunities, and the Asian Studies minor.

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  • French students using tablets to experience the immersive Notre Dame de Paris exhibit

    French

    Spoken by over 270 million people on five continents and official language of 29 countries and many NGOs, French is a leading language of diplomacy and international relations.

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  • German Students

    German

    German is the native language of over 90 million Europeans, and is highly useful in business, engineering, nursing, philosophy, and the hard sciences.

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  • Irish students

    Irish

    Studying Irish language is enriched by our "immersion Saturdays," study-abroad opportunities, the CUA Gaels student club, and the Certificate in Irish Studies program.

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  • Class in Italy

    Italian

    With an estimated 7,500 American companies doing business with Italy and more than 1,000 U.S. firms having offices in Italy, Italian opens up a new world of opportunities.

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  • Spanish Students

    Spanish

    Degree programs in Spanish at Catholic University include undergraduate majors in Hispanic Studies and Spanish for International Service, a Certificate in Spanish for Health Care, and a Minor in Hispanic Studies.

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