Department of World Languages and Literatures

The department of World Languages and Literatures at Western Michigan University is at the heart of the university’s growing emphasis on global engagement and citizenship.

In the best liberal arts tradition, we offer courses in language acquisition, culture, literature and linguistics. We also offer language study tailored to future business people and translators. Our small classes provide students with the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with faculty mentors, and our many study abroad options enable students to add fluency in a second language and international experience to their four-year degree. Students have the opportunity to learn Arabic, Chinese, French and Old French, German, ancient Greek, Japanese, and classical and medieval Latin.

Whether you are interested in language and language-related studies for personal enrichment, adding linguistic and international expertise to another field of study, or becoming a professional in the field, we welcome you.

Global engagement

Get Globally Engaged at Western Michigan University

CAS study abroad photo contest winner

Cheryl White is the winner of the College of Arts and Sciences Study Abroad photo contest. This picture was taken near the historical bridge in Bassano del Grappa, Italy. "This picture documents the joyful reunion of two WMU study abroad students: Cheryl White to Berlin, and Henry Thirty to Italy. This study abroad experience was an immense challenge and learning process for the both of us" Cheryl stated as she described the picture.