Spanish Club at museum

Spanish

Offering the Spanish major, two minors, three levels of certifications, and even secondary education options, there are a multitude of ways to incorporate Spanish language and culture into your undergraduate studies here at Northern.

Learn more about the Spanish program
French students studying abroad

French

This is an interdisciplinary program that encompasses the richness of the French and Francophone world and offers an intellectually diverse program that includes literature, culture, film, art, and philosophy. 

Learn more about the French program
German Students

German Studies

German Studies is a transnational and interdisciplinary program that encompasses the various German-speaking regions of central Europe and offers an intellectually diverse program—covering literature, history, politics, the arts, and philosophy.

Learn more about the German Studies program
Student speaking at the Refugee Outreach Collective

International Studies

This all-encompassing program provides students with a basic understanding of modern world history, international relations, world cultures, and world religions. Part of this learning, as well as intensive language instruction, takes place abroad.

Learn more about the International Studies program
Photo of Deaf Studies students

Deaf Studies

Northern Michigan University’s Deaf Studies program was established to create social cross-cultural connections between the Deaf and hearing communities. Grounding the program in American Sign Language, students participate in social settings, applying new ASL skills to personal lives and/or social employment settings.

Learn more about the Deaf Studies program
Student and professor looking at laptop

Workplace Intercultural Competency

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.

Learn more about the Workplace Intercultural Competency program

Language Certifications

Interested in learning a new language, but unsure about committing to a major or minor? Consider a language certification! Certifications are listed on a student's transcript and complement any major or minor. Each certification requires only 8 credits (2 language courses!), earning a "C" or better at a 100 (basic), 200 (intermediate), or 300 (advanced) level. Plus, earn a Credly badge for each certificate completion! 

Basic, intermediate, and advanced certificates are offered for Spanish, French, and German; a basic certificate is offered for Chinese. We also offer a Certification of Competency: German-Speaking Cultures.

Learn more about our language certifications