M.A. in Languages and Cultures

Program Overview

Enhance your knowledge and understanding of global languages with a Master of Arts in Languages and Cultures. Our MA program offers concentrations in French, German, or Spanish (with optional Teacher Certification), and allows students to develop their language and critical cultural skills. Our students can participate in a vibrant community-centered intellectual environment while preparing for a wide array of exciting career opportunities. Our 33-credit program is designed to develop linguistic and analytical skills at the highest levels through small seminars and opportunities for collaboration at one of Pennsylvania's most respected institutions. Courses can be completed over the regular semesters (evening options) and in the winter or summer sessions, in a variety of formats: face-to-face, online, hybrid, and independent study. Options for fully online students may be available.

Tracks

French

The French track of the MA in Languages and Cultures offers a dynamic curriculum that develops a contextualized understanding of the languages, literatures, and cultures of France, Québec and the Francophone world, as well as knowledge of the methods of scholarly research, critical analysis, and advanced pedagogical tools.

German

The German track of the MA in Languages and Cultures offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary curriculum that develops a strong grounding in the literary, cultural, historical, and linguistic traditions of German, Austrian, and central European society, as well as knowledge of the methods of scholarly research, critical analysis, and advanced pedagogical tools.

Spanish

The Spanish track of the MA in Languages and Cultures offers a vibrant interdisciplinary curriculum that develops a critical foundation on issues regarding literary traditions, cultural production, and linguistics in Latin America and Spain, as well as knowledge of the methods of scholarly research, critical analysis, and advanced pedagogical tools.

Teaching Certification

In addition to their MA in Languages and Cultures, students have the option of pursuing Graduate Teaching Certification to obtain Pennsylvania state K-12 teaching certification in German, French, or Spanish.

Program Highlights

  • Research portfolio

  • Graduate assistantships

  • Study abroad opportunities

  • Graduate internships

  • Small classes

  • Expert faculty

  • Optional total immersion summer school

  • In-class, hybrid, and online options

What can I do with this degree?

Our graduates go on to doctoral study as well as careers in any industry that values or requires foreign language skills including:

  • Business and industry
  • Diplomacy
  • Education at any level
  • Emergency response and law enforcement
  • Health care
  • Immigration policy
  • International development
  • Legal interpreting
  • National security
  • Nonprofit leadership