Studying world languages and cultures at Iowa State University prepares you for a wide variety of exciting and impactful careers in today’s globalized world. Whether you’re interested in international business, education, government, human resources, nonprofit work, or communication, the skills you gain in language proficiency, cultural understanding, and cross-cultural communication are in high demand. Your degree will open doors to opportunities both locally and abroad, allowing you to excel in your chosen career.
Careers
Career Statistics
-
9 out of 10
employers rely on employees with language skills other than English.*
-
5-20%
more pay per hour for multilingual professionals than their monolingual peers.*
-
$57,090
Median wage for translators and interpreters, higher than the median wage for all workers. **
-
68 million
people in the U.S. speak a language other than English, underscoring a need for multilingualism in the workforce.**
Career opportunities
Our graduates are well-equipped to pursue a wide range of careers across multiple sectors. Below are just a few examples of career paths you can follow:
Education and Translation
- Language Teacher (K-12 or Higher Education): Whether you’re teaching in a traditional classroom or tutoring, your expertise in a world language will allow you to pass on valuable language skills and cultural insights to future generations.
- World Language Specialist: Many schools and educational programs need specialists to develop curriculum or assess language proficiency in various languages.
- Translator/Interpreter: Facilitate communication between individuals who speak different languages in various settings, including courts, medical offices, business meetings, and conferences.
International Business and Trade
- International Marketing Coordinator: Use your language skills to help companies expand their business into new international markets.
- Global Supply Chain Manager: Navigate international trade, shipping logistics, and supply chains for global companies.
- Multinational Corporations: Work for companies operating across borders, where language and cultural awareness is key to success in marketing, public relations, and management.
Government, Diplomacy and Nonprofits
- Service Officer: Represent your country and promote diplomatic relations with other nations.
- Intelligence Analyst or Cultural Attaché: Use your language and cultural knowledge to work with governmental agencies like the FBI or CIA.
- International Aid Worker: Provide essential services and support in regions around the world affected by conflict, poverty, or natural disasters.
- Community Outreach Coordinator: Engage with diverse communities, advocate for causes, and create social impact both domestically and internationally.
Journalism and Media
- Correspondent: Work as a journalist reporting from international locations, providing coverage on global events and news.
- Media Relations Specialist: Help organizations engage with global audiences, leveraging language skills and cultural insights.
My experience in the Department of World Languages and Cultures at Iowa State was beyond enriching, and the connections I made with staff and fellow students are invaluable to me in my current role as a bilingual educator at a dual-language elementary school.
Grant Sincox, ’21 Spanish with secondary Spanish endorsement and K-12 ESL
Internships: real-world experience
Internships are a crucial part of your academic and professional journey at Iowa State University. Our department offers a variety of internship opportunities that allow you to apply your language skills and cultural understanding in real-world settings. Internships provide hands-on experience in fields like education, translation, global business, and international relations.
For more information on available internships and how to apply, visit our Internships Page.
Career support
LAS Career Services is here to help you navigate your career path and provide support as you transition from academic life to the professional world. From resume writing and job search strategies to career counseling and networking opportunities, our services will equip you with the tools and resources needed for success.
We also offer a 1 credit course to prepare Iowa State students for an international career. Consider enrolling in WLC 2030, The Global Professional: International Career Preparation. Learn more about the resources available to you at LAS Career Services.
Alumni Careers: Jesse Leonard
Current Job: Senior Product Engineer, Danfoss Power Solutions
ISU Majors: Mechanical Engineering and German LCP