Global competence and intercultural understanding are among the most desirable skills in the 21st-century job market. Students in the Department of Modern Languages and Literatures find an education that is deeply rooted in the liberal arts tradition. By combining the study of language, literature, film, art, and culture, our students will graduate as knowledgeable and active participants in the global world.

We offer a variety of degree programs to undergraduate students including majors, minors, and certificate programs. Students combine general education and interdisciplinary area studies courses with language, culture, and literature courses in their major. Our students are immersed in the rich cultural and professional offerings of Washington, D.C., which allows for countless research, internship, and career opportunities. We strongly encourage our students to study abroad in one of our faculty-led programs or with one of our university partner programs around the world.

Graduate students in our Program in Hispanic Literatures and Cultures will find that Catholic University remains faithful to its founding mission as a graduate research institution. We are committed to excellence in graduate study combined with a practical education in language teaching that prepares students for a variety of careers. Our research faculty closely mentor our graduate students and they are always available to answer questions about the admissions process, financial support, and our programs.

International students are supported by our International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) team to help them navigate the unique challenges they face — including immigration issues, language programs, and orientation.