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Languages
& Cultures

Department of Languages & Cultures

Think and live globally (and get smarter as a side effect!)

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Click here for testing in Spanish

The Department of Languages and Cultures at Loyola University New Orleans recognizes that foreign language education is an indispensable part of the development of the individual in the Jesuit tradition. Through the study of culture, the knowledge and appreciation of other languages and literatures is at the heart of the program.

Broaden Your World View

The knowledge of other languages and cultures is a hallmark of a liberal arts education for several very good reasons. The primary benefits are:

  • Broadening your own perspective and understanding the world better
  • The language itself, the knowledge of other cultures, and the advantages these give you in today’s job market

However, all the current research also points to the general cognitive benefits of studying and speaking a second language! That is, learning a second language is an exercise in cognitive problem-solving: the effects of second language instruction are directly transferable to the areas of math, science, writing, and countless other skills. 

Whether you are a major, a minor, or simply interested in taking a few classes, you will learn to express yourself in your second (or third!) language and at the same time you’ll become a better problem-solver in all your other areas of study. You’ll learn to think and live globally, and develop skills and talents that are increasingly significant in the contemporary world and workforce. Why not study a language?

Contact the Department

Phone: (504) 865-2295
Location: Bobet Hall 318
Mailing Address: 6363 St. Charles Ave., Campus Box 118, New Orleans, LA 70118

Two Loyola Students with Flags

Academics

The Department of Languages and Cultures offers major degrees in French, Spanish, and Latin American Studies, as well as Classical Studies (Civilizations or Languages). You can also study German and Italian, Latin, and Ancient Greek. Courses in our program are a part of the interdisciplinary Classical Studies and Latin American Studies minors, as well. In addition to helping students acquire proficiency in a second language, our courses teach all aspects of culture, including history, film, and linguistics.

Programs of Study

Department Mission Statement

The Department of Languages and Cultures is committed to upholding the strong Jesuit traditions of language study and active participation in other cultures. We are dedicated to understanding the real differences in worldview that only direct and authentic human communication—in all its changing forms—captures. Open exchange with other cultures on their own terms fosters genuine critical thinking, which we nurture by teaching language proficiency and cultural literacy. Our students learn to conceive the world anew, to embrace its plurality, and to reject the inherent racism of monolingualism prevalent in society.

Latin Research at Loyola

Research

The Department of Languages and Cultures offers undergraduate research opportunities.

Academic Research

Career Opportunities for Graduates

The department’s mission is to encourage and challenge Loyola students to reach a level of competency in a language other than their own, thus broadening their world view and allowing them to clearly and openly exchange ideas and opinions with people of other cultures. Our graduates go on to a wide variety of opportunities. Some of them have achieved success in the following:

  • French or Spanish teachers
  • Peace Corps
  • Graduate school, Law school
  • World Health Organization and other non-profits
  • World Bank
  • Catholic Charities Immigration and Refugee Services
  • Paralegal work

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