The mission of the 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. All our majors benefit from the same language training offered by our nationally recognized teacher licensure programs, which have been awarded this status by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. This recognition places us in the top tier of foreign language departments of colleges and universities across the United States.
The Harding chapter Chi Nu of Phi Sigma Iota, the international foreign language honor society, recognizes outstanding junior and senior departmental majors and minors. Phi Sigma Iota is the highest academic honor in the field of foreign languages.
Students with a solid background in the language may seek validation credit for introductory courses upon strong performance in subsequent courses. Credit also may be earned based on high AP scores.
With a career in translation, you will have the opportunity to make a significant difference in the lives of others by increasing access to necessary written information. Translation increases the efficacy and efficiency of communication in literature, business, legal, medical, technical and diplomatic contexts.
A degree in French will prepare you well for various roles in travel and tourism including translation, interpretation, airline services, hotel management and international travel agencies.
Foreign language skills can be invaluable in international business roles including finanance, customer service, engineering, sales, import/export and more.
Associate Professor of Spanish
