The Department of Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics teaches 17 languages, offers nine majors, three master's degrees (one each in French, Spanish and Linguistics), as well as a master's of science degree in computational linguistics. Our majors are interdisciplinary and many of our courses are cross-listed with other departments and colleges.

In today's globalized world, you can be a leader in your chosen field by having the skills you can acquire only through studying language and literature.

Russell Berman, former President of the Modern Language Association stated, "Languages mean career skills for the workforce, but they also contribute to each person’s cognitive growth. Without sufficient language learning, American students will suffer from diminished educational opportunities, and we sabotage their prospects in the global economy."

To these ends, Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics is committed to excellent and innovative scholarship and teaching and to the promotion of diversity and trans-cultural understanding. The department as whole:

• Promotes the knowledge of languages.
• Facilitates the study of literary and other cultural texts.
• Facilitates the study of language on a theoretical, scientific level.
• Promotes critical thinking.

The Department of Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics teaches 17 languages, offers nine majors, three Master of Arts degrees (one each in French, Spanish, and Linguistics), as well as a Master of Science degree in Computational Linguistics and a Certificate of Advanced Studies in Language Teaching.

Unlimited Career Opportunities

There is no one given career path following graduation. Teaching, translating, and interpreting are obvious career options, but your degree also has exciting potential in areas such as:

• Foreign civil service
• Airline services
• Advertising
• Editing and publishing
• Subtitles and voice-overs
• Event management
• Hotel management

If you have a master’s degree in French, Spanish, or Linguistics you will be prepared to excel in a wide variety of professional and research areas. Many of our students go on to pursue doctoral degrees at top institutions or move directly into professional careers, as consultants, teachers, translators, editors, writers, or find work in the diplomatic corps, international marketing, the performing arts and more. No doubt, your advanced degree will give you an edge in an increasingly competitive world.

Study Abroad

Enhance your oral and written language proficiency with an international experience through Syracuse Abroad, which features more than 100 programs in 60 countries. Choose semester, summer, short term, and yearlong options for international study.