German/Spanish, BA

Department of Modern and Classical Languages, College of Humanities and Social Sciences

90 credits

Introduction

In keeping with the aim of providing the skills needed to learn about a culture in depth, the Department of Modern and Classical Languages trains in two areas: language structure and literary analysis. Language structure is taught both holistically and analytically. Holistic language learning is facilitated by modern methods and multimedia technology, as well as study abroad opportunities. The department supports the analytical instruction of language structure through a full range of language skills courses, as well as a significant number of courses in linguistics. Literary analysis is essential to a student’s understanding of the highest achievements in aesthetic expression of a culture’s values. The department provides instruction in history and culture, as well as literary theory, with an end to enabling the student to gain access to the intellectual life in the culture. The department imparts skills to future foreign language teachers so that they may similarly enable high school students to begin the acquisition of foreign languages.

Why Consider a German/Spanish Major?

The department provides students the skills to learn firsthand about major world societies. The department believes that the best way to understand a culture directly is through its language. The modern languages offered in the department are spoken natively by nearly two billion people. The multifaceted programs of the department provide an opening to the world through language, literature, culture and civilization. It is a meeting place for true diversity.

Contact Information

Modern and Classical Languages Department Office Miller Hall 223 360-650-3918

German Advisor Please see the department for the most up-to-date information. Miller Hall 223 360-650-3918

Spanish Advisor Shaw Gynan Miller Hall 215A 360-650-4853 Shaw.Gynan@wwu.edu

Sample Careers

Interpreter | Foreign Correspondent | Foreign Service Officer | FBI Agent | Educator | Linguist | Travel Writer | All careers involving communication

Major/Career Resources

http://www.wwu.edu/careers/students_choosingamajor.shtml

How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):

Make an appointment with the German and Spanish advisors.

• When meeting with the advisor, you should bring:
• An “Official Declaration of Undergraduate Major” form (available at the Department Office)
• An unofficial WWU transcript
• Documentation for courses taken at other colleges or universities
• Documentation for any study-abroad credits earned

Students seeking admission to the German/Spanish major must meet the following requirements:

• Completion of SPAN 203 with a “B” or better (transfer students must meet the same requirement for any course accepted as an equivalent to SPAN 203)
• Complete at least one Spanish course at Western
• Submit application (available from Spanish advisor or department office)
• Students meeting qualifications but not admitted because of space limitations may reapply

Grade Requirements

A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors. A GPA of 2.50 or above in both languages is required.