College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
Department of World Languages and Cultures
Search Close Search
Give
Toggle Menu

Majors

Group of students sitting in a circle with laptops open on chairs in a classroom

Our vibrant programs invite you to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of human experience, from the ancient wisdom of classical studies to the dynamic expressions of world languages. Whether you’re drawn to understanding the intricacies of anthropology, engaging with U.S. Latino/a Studies, or leaning into language study, you will gain invaluable insights that transcend borders and connect you to global communities.

Your journey in the Department of World Languages and Cultures (WLC) not only enhances your linguistic skills but also fosters critical thinking, cultural awareness, and empathy—skills that are increasingly vital in today’s interconnected world. With a range of minors that allow you to tailor your education, you can expand your knowledge in fields such as Middle Eastern Studies or World Film Studies, preparing you for a long list of career opportunities looking for professionals who build connections and break barrios.

Grant Johnston smiling against a neutral colored wall

The things I like best about WLC are the professors and the class structure. The professors are all very kind, helpful and make the classes interesting and the class structure features 1 on 1 and group conversations to improve language skills.

Grant Johnston, ’25 Biology, Spanish minor
“After learning Spanish I would really like to explore more of Mexico and travel to South America, specifically Colombia, Peru and Argentina.”

Majors

  • anthropolgy-peru

    Anthropology

    Anthropology explores the intricate connections between people and their environments, offering a deep understanding of what it means to be human. From studying ancient civilizations to examining contemporary social issues, a degree in anthropology equips you with critical thinking and research skills that are applicable in various careers.

  • Arco de la Estrella

    World Languages and Cultures

    Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of French or the passion of Spanish, or any other language, a major in world languages and cultures immerses you in not just vocabulary and grammar, but also the rich cultural contexts that shape how people communicate. Majors are available in French, German, Spanish, as well as Language Teacher Preparation for these languages.

  • world-map

    Interdisciplinary Studies

    A major in Interdisciplinary Studies is perfect for students who have unique interdisciplinary educational goals. Develop an area of interest based upon one of the following cross-disciplinary programs our faculty have developed.

Three students sitting at a table and smiling while on a Study Abroad trip

Language and Cultures for Professionals (LCP)

Languages and cultures for professions, also known as LCP, lets you pursue a professional track degree or minor without losing your connection to the world as a whole. Whether your primary major is in LAS, the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, College of Business, the College of Engineering, or any college at ISU, LCP students choose our career-oriented program for its practicality, flexibility, and global perspective.

Take the next step