Female students sitting in class listening to a speaker

ABERDEEN, S.D. – This fall, Northern State University will offer a brand new Bachelor of Arts in Global Language and Culture.

This unique program, available in person or online, will provide students the skills and experiences to communicate effectively in global contexts across cultural settings. This contextualized learning will prepare them to take on a variety of professional roles in areas including international business/banking, technology services, immigration services, international student programs, hospitality services, health care services and embassy support.

“This is way beyond just learning appreciation for language,” said Dr. Elizabeth Haller, Chair of the Department of English, Communication, and Global Languages. “This is not a language program but rather a global cultural studies program that incorporates the practical use of language in a global context.”

Students of this program will be able to choose from one of three language concentrations – Spanish, German and Chinese – taking a language through the intermediate level. Haller said the hope is to increase those offerings to French and other languages as the program expands.

The new degree program came about when faculty in the NSU College of Arts and Sciences noticed a national decline in language enrollments. So they came up with a unique, interdisciplinary program that fits language requirements as well as the global demands that are being required of current graduates.

“We have so many businesses, organizations, and nonprofits in South Dakota with international affiliations,” Haller said. “This degree gives students a global perspective and a set of skills so they can make a positive impact wherever they work.”

Along with being a standalone program, the skills developed in the Global Language and Culture program combine well with other majors, said College of Arts and Sciences Dean Dr. Alyssa Kiesow. Many courses double count between majors, making it easier for students to double major with biology, psychology, communications, criminal justice, Spanish, sociology or marketing.

Kiesow said students also have the option to study abroad as a part of their degree program.

“The program provides a better global perspective and better global preparedness,” she said.

For more information about the NSU Global Language and Culture program, contact Julie Backous with the College of Arts and Sciences at 605-626-2601. 

About Northern State University

Northern State University is a student-centered institution that provides an outstanding educational experience, preparing students through the liberal arts and professional education for their future endeavors. A regional university, Northern offers rigorous academics; diverse civic, social and cultural opportunities; and a commitment to building an inclusive environment for all points of view. Northern also offers a broad-based athletics program, sponsoring 15 NCAA Division II intercollegiate varsity sports that compete in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (NSIC). The university strives to enrich the community through partnerships such as its Educational Impact Campaign, which opened a new South Dakota School for the Blind and Visually Impaired; new athletic and recreation fields; and, soon, an on-campus regional sports complex. With the $55 million campaign, NSU has been the recipient of more than $120 million in privately funded building projects and scholarships within a decade. To learn more, visit NSU Admissions