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Foreign Languages and International Studies

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Arts and Sciences
Foreign Languages and International Studies

Our Mission

The mission of the Harding University Department of Foreign Languages and International Studies is to equip language learners for service in both local and global communities through the development of intercultural competence and effective communication in one or more world languages. Our faculty, students and alumni honor God through their service in missions, education, diplomacy, graduate level study and research, work with non-profit organizations, careers in the humanities, communications, business, health sciences and more.

 

Outstanding Programs in Language Plus Interdisciplinary Degree

Connect your interests in foreign language and cultures with programs that produce the advanced foreign language proficiency needed in today's global society. Our French and Spanish graduates excel in oral and written communication, and their advanced-level proficiency enables them to use their language skills professionally. They demonstrate a high degree of intercultural competence in interacting with people of diverse cultures. 

The foreign language and missions major speaks to the heart of Harding's goals by integrating faith and a passion for Christian service with an understanding of the foreign language skills needed to accomplish His mission in the world. Or combine language, diplomacy and any other career interest by checking out our degree in international studies. We also offer degrees combining foreign language and education for students seeking teacher licensure, where there is high demand in the job market. Log in to your admissions portal to apply today!

 

New Program in Translation

Translation skills are more in demand and jobs in translation are expected to rise in coming years. In conjunction with the department's Center for Translation, we now offer an undergraduate concentration in translation, and if you so desire, our graduate certificate in translation can be completed after graduation. These courses provide hands-on experience and mentoring, with a focus on meeting community translation needs.

 

 Outreach Opportunities

All of our faculty members have been involved in overseas mission work in some capacity. God is using us to reach people all over the world through Summer Campaigns in French-speaking Europe and in South America, as well as through the faculty and students who edit, translate or teach for various ministries. We also encourage students to participate in outreach in the local community where opportunities abound for interaction with native speakers of other languages.

Travel

In addition to mission work, we also offer study abroad options in French and Spanish, and some majors choose to complete internships using their target language.
Travel Opportunities
Center for Translation
Gain hands-on experience by providing translation services to our local community.
Conversation activities
An opportunity to get to know native speakers or other students in foreign language classes.
Careers
There are two major areas for which the knowledge of a foreign language is important ...
Internships and jobs
Find opportunities where ever they maybe.

Prepare

Earn credit for your current language skills.
Placement Information

FAQs

Placement of students with foreign language background varies according to the level of language proficiency. Normally, students with AP credit, a state Seal of Biliteracy, or three years or more of high school study are encouraged to enroll at the intermediate level (FREN or SPAN 2010 fall, 2020 spring). Students with exceptional foreign language skills may be approved by the department chair for enrollment in advanced courses.

We strongly encourage students with previous exposure to a language to continue their study of that same language as soon as possible in order to avoid language loss. Additionally, language study during the freshman year leaves the option open to add a language major or minor later — an option that is becoming increasingly popular among students as more and more employers are looking for bilingual employees. Language study should begin in the fall semester. Due to the levels of each language that are offered at Harding, there are very few opportunities to begin language study in the spring.

Validation credit for previous language study may be obtained upon written request as follows: Students with three or more years of high school foreign language study, upon completion of the Harding University intermediate course of the same language with a grade of A or B in both semesters, first time enrolled, may receive eight hours of credit for the elementary course. Students with exceptional two-year programs may be approved by the department chair for inclusion in this offer.

The foreign language program at Harding complies with nationally recognized guidelines for content of course offerings at the 1000 and 2000 levels. Due to the wide variety of language programs across the nation, prior to the granting of equivalency for Harding courses, transfer credit for 1000- and 2000-level courses must be verified by the successful completion of the next level skills course with a C or better or by a Harding equivalency test covering the subject matter. Students with inadequate skills may be asked to repeat coursework in order to achieve adequate proficiency levels in order to continue in the program. It is to be understood that in a continuing program a certain basic knowledge is essential to performance at advanced levels. Students are encouraged to counsel with the department chair prior to enrolling for concurrent credit.

Harding University grants credit from CLEP foreign language examinations, depending on the score, and also grants AP credit in foreign languages. Students who are eligible for validation credit (see above) may not need to sit for CLEP or AP exams. Therefore, all students are advised to check with the department before registering for CLEP exams. Consult Harding University's current catalog for more detail, or if you have further questions, call the registrar's office at 501-279-4057.

Arkansas Department of Education's list

Contact Information


Foreign Languages and International Studies
501-279-4645
forlang@harding.edu

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At Harding University, you'll have the opportunity to be transformed academically, relationally and spiritually so you're prepared to change the world.

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