Languages, Literatures and International Studies
As a welcoming community of international scholars, we provide a crucial component of NMU's undergraduate curriculum. Our courses and programs challenge students to cultivate global competencies in languages, literatures and cultures. The knowledge and skills students gain with us prepare them for a variety of professions, and are complementary and invaluable to fields and careers students pursue across campus and around the world.
NEW! Introducing the Workplace Intercultural Competency Program
The Workplace Intercultural Competency program provides students with a foundation in language study, culture, intercultural communication and management skills so they can succeed in the management of diverse workplaces.
Online Language Placement Test
Do you have previous language experience? Click here to take our free online placement test! This will help you determine the ideal French, German, or Spanish course based on your language skills.
Northern students love to explore: Learn a new language! We also offer introductory classes in American Sign Language, Chinese, and Russian. Many of our language courses also count towards General Education requirements.
Visit our language tutors!
Starting the third week of the fall semester, we're offering virtual Zoom tutoring and in-person tutoring in the Language Resource Center located at 111i Harden Hall. For the Fall 2024 semester, we're offering tutoring in ASL, French, German, and Spanish.
Click the Language Resource Center button below for the Fall 2024 tutoring schedule (coming soon!), a list of this semester's tutors, and helpful tutoring FAQs.
Degrees Offered
Certifications
- Certification of Advanced Study in French
- Certification of Advanced Study in German
- Certification of Advanced Study in Spanish
- Certification of Basic Study in Chinese
- Certification of Basic Study in French
- Certification of Basic Study in German
- Certification of Basic Study in Russian
- Certification of Basic Study in Spanish
- Certification of Competency: German-Speaking Cultures
- Certification of Intermediate Study in French
- Certification of Intermediate Study in German
- Certification of Intermediate Study in Spanish
What you'll do at NMU
Harness technology to see, hear and create multi-media in our Language Resource Center or on your NMU-issued notebook computer. Immerse yourself in novels, newspapers and magazines from around the world in our library. Join a language club and cook, dance and converse together. Study art, language and culture all over the world. Compete on campus in Spanish Day. Intern as an English teacher in France. Or just enjoy weekly food and fun at one of the “language tables” at a local restaurant. The opportunities for involvement and growth are as unlimited as your adventurous spirit!