Students in a lecture in the School of Medicine, working in tables and interacting

Department of Classical and Modern Languages

Where language becomes your bridge to the world. Master communication across cultures and unlock global opportunities that transform communities and create lasting connections.

What is The Department of Classical and Modern Languages?

Our dynamic programs foster linguistic competencies, critical-thinking skills and global literacy through courses in more than eight languages, cultural studies and translation. With 280 students in our degree programs and 2,500 fulfilling language requirements, our department is a vibrant hub for those passionate about global cultures.

Our faculty, recognized for their teaching and research excellence, actively engage in the community and collaborate across disciplines. We offer real-world experiences through scholarships for overseas travel and internships, with programs in Austria, Japan, China, France, Panama and Spain.

Our graduates excel in various fields, including education, business, law, medicine and nonprofits, and many receive prestigious scholarships and volunteer in organizations like the Peace Corps and Teach for America.

Explore Your Future

American Sign Language Interpreting Studies BS
Transform your passion for communication into a meaningful career bridging communities. Master the skills to become a qualified interpreter and create lasting connections that break down barriers.
French BA
Connect with millions worldwide through the language of diplomacy, innovation and culture. Open doors to international business, research, literature, cinema and countless global opportunities.
Spanish BA
Unlock opportunities across business, technology, healthcare and the arts. Master the world's second-most spoken language and become a bridge between cultures in our interconnected world.

Why study Languages?

67

Points higher SAT scores for language learners

20%

Higher career earnings with language skills compared to monolingual counterparts

90%

Of U.S. employers depend on workers who communicate in languages beyond English

Career Prospects

Where Language Skills Become Your Gateway to Global Success

Classical and Modern Languages graduates don't just learn languages — they develop the cultural fluency and communication mastery that today's interconnected world demands. With 90% of employers seeking multilingual talent and bilingual workers earning 20% more throughout their careers, your language expertise becomes your competitive advantage in virtually every industry.

Global Business and Technology 

Salary Range: $58,000-$145,000 
Lead international expansion and cross-cultural innovation in the world's most dynamic companies. Your language skills position you at the forefront of global commerce, where cultural understanding drives business success.

Career Opportunities:

  • International Business Development Manager
  • Global Marketing Specialist for tech companies
  • Cross-Cultural Communication Consultant
  • International Trade Representative
  • Global Supply Chain Coordinator
  • Digital Content Manager for international markets
  • International Customer Success Manager

Government and Diplomatic Service 

Salary Range: $45,000-$165,000 
Shape international relations and protect national interests through expert language and cultural knowledge. Your expertise becomes essential to diplomacy, security and global cooperation.

Career Opportunities:

  • Foreign Service Officer advancing U.S. interests abroad
  • Intelligence Analyst supporting national security
  • Court Interpreter ensuring justice across languages
  • Immigration Services Officer facilitating legal processes
  • International Development Specialist building global partnerships
  • Cultural Affairs Specialist promoting international understanding
  • Defense Language Professional supporting military operations

Education and Cultural Leadership 

Salary Range: $42,000-$95,000 
Inspire the next generation while preserving and sharing the world's cultural treasures. Your passion for languages becomes a bridge between cultures and generations.

Career Opportunities:

  • Language Educator shaping global citizens
  • International Student Services Director
  • Study Abroad Program Coordinator
  • Museum Cultural Programs Manager
  • International Education Consultant
  • Curriculum Development Specialist
  • Educational Technology Designer for language learning

Media and Global Communications 

Salary Range: $48,000-$120,000 
Tell stories that transcend borders and connect diverse audiences. Your linguistic abilities become the foundation for impactful journalism and strategic communication in our globalized world.

Career Opportunities:

  • International Correspondent reporting from global locations
  • Translator/Interpreter bridging communication gaps
  • Social Media Manager for international brands
  • Documentary Producer exploring global cultures
  • Content Creator for multilingual platforms
  • International Public Relations Specialist
  • Localization Manager adapting content across cultures

Emerging Global Opportunities 

Salary Range: $65,000-$180,000 
Pioneer careers at the intersection of language, technology and global innovation. These rapidly expanding fields reward your cultural expertise with exceptional growth potential and the chance to shape tomorrow's interconnected world.

Career Opportunities:

  • AI Language Training Specialist developing global technologies
  • International UX/UI Designer creating culturally responsive digital experiences
  • Global Compliance Officer navigating international regulations
  • Cross-Cultural Healthcare Communication Specialist
  • International Sustainability Consultant
  • Virtual Reality Cultural Experience Designer
  • Global Crisis Communication Manager

Your Global Journey Begins Here

Every path in Classical and Modern Languages connects your passion for culture and communication with the power to bridge gaps and create understanding. Whether you're drawn to corporate leadership, diplomatic service or innovative technology, your language education provides the foundation for a career that spans continents and transforms communities—while earning you the 67-point SAT advantage and cognitive benefits that last a lifetime.

background image

Transform Your Voice Into Your Global Advantage

Ready to earn 20% more than your monolingual peers while connecting cultures and shaping international understanding? Master communication that transcends borders, opens diplomatic doors and drives global innovation.

Contact the Department

Classical and Modern Languages

Department Website about

Phone

Location

Bingham Humanities Building, Room 332
2216 S. 1st St Walk
Louisville, KY 40292

Hours

Monday - Friday: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.