Global, Cultural and Language Studies (GCL)

The Global, Cultural and Language Studies (GCL) program offers a broad range of courses that encourage students to examine the complex relationships between national values, international events and global responsibilities. This program gives students the opportunity to develop fluency in a language while gaining expertise in the historical, political and cultural influences that have shaped the current international landscape.

Program Outcomes

To function appropriately in a linguistic and cultural setting outside of their own, students are expected to reach a specific level of linguistic competency in a second language. In addition to the classroom, they gain this cultural and linguistic competencies through an experiential learning component that most complete while studying abroad. Students also typically work in an internship or service-learning setting where they can also gain practical work experience in a field they’re interested in.

Specifically, graduates of Global, Cultural and Language Studies will:

• Understand language as integral to intercultural competence
• Achieve world language fluency at the intermediate-mid level following ACTFL (American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages) Proficiency Guidelines
• Articulate the role of culture in shaping perception, behavior, attitudes and beliefs
• Analyze the issues and problems posed by living and working in an increasingly interconnected global community
• Apply interdisciplinary approaches to formulate creative solutions to contemporary global challenges
• Evaluate how the integrated knowledge of another language and culture informs actions leading to social justice and peace

Careers

Students with a Major in Global, Cultural and Language Studies are well prepared to work at governmental and non-governmental organizations in the fields of law, human rights, public policy or private business. Graduates have found employment in these fields at historical societies, non-profit organizations, and in educational institutions. 

Others choose to pursue graduate study in economics, global studies, political science, law, medicine, cultural studies, or language and culture instruction at national and international institutions of higher education.

Formats and Locations

The B.A. in Global, Cultural and Language Studies degree is offered in a traditional, on-campus format at our main Duluth campus. 

More information for ...

Prospective Students

Current Students