Foreign Language Requirement

Global Business program students will take 8 credits of a global business language. The objective of the foreign language requirement is that students work towards business communication proficiency in the major “business languages” of the world, in which we include French, Spanish, Mandarin, Russian, Japanese, and Arabic.

If you have prior exposure to any of these languages (as a native speaker), you may use the credits towards track electives. You must demonstrate competency through appropriate tests administered by the Languages Department. Proficiency will be established either through tests or documentation from a prior institution. If accepted, credits will transfer to free or track electives.

If you have only limited exposure to these languages (e.g., have taken it in high school), or none at all, and cannot demonstrate the competency, you are advised to complete the required 8 credits in one language. You might choose to improve on these language skills by taking an additional 4 credits, perhaps a subject course taught in that language by using your free elective.

We currently offer Arabic, French, Spanish, Japanese and Chinese (Mandarin) on campus, and can arrange for you to study the others. Waiver requests and requests to take other languages will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis. Contact the Director of Undergraduate International Programs, C. Gopinath.