Modern Languages

Modern Languages

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When you major in Modern Languages, you’ll build strong language skills, explore literature and learn to communicate across cultures. Study abroad with faculty-led programs, gain real-world experience through internships and service learning, and engage with diverse communities. Prepare for a global career with critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of today’s interconnected world.

The Nebraska Difference

Curiosity

Discover what moves you with a diverse blend of academic disciplines.

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Flexibility & Choice

Customize your degree with course choices. Add a minor or second major.

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Hands-On Experience

Build knowledge, skills and experience in and out of the classroom.

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Limitless Career Paths

Connect your major, interests and goals to any field.

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Program Features

Focus and Range

Dive deep into your Modern Languages major, specializing in either French or German, while taking a wide variety of courses across all areas in the College of Arts and Sciences. Graduate academically well-rounded and eager to keep learning. Use your collaboration and communication skills to address complex problems and make a positive impact professionally and personally.

1-to-1 Academic Advising and Career Coaching

Along with your faculty, professional academic advisors and career coaches will help you make a one-of-a-kind degree plan. We are focused on your success, while at Nebraska and after graduation, whether your goal is employment or graduate/professional school.

Much More Than Language

A community of scholars, researchers, educators, writers, poets, theorists, humanists, linguists, social scientists, cultural critics, historians, translators, interpreters, businesspeople, leaders of study abroad programs, philosophers, critical thinkers and cultural ambassadors.

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Notable Courses

French Phonetics and Pronunciation (FREN 319)

Analysis of French sounds, meaningful contrasts, stress and intonation patterns; correction of specific mistakes in pronunciation.

German for Professional Purposes (GERM 301)

Build German communication skills appropriate for a variety of professional settings, with emphasis on writing and speaking.

The Environment and the French-Speaking World (FREN 387)

An examination of environmental engagement in the novels, short stories, poetry, films and music of the French-speaking world.

Advanced Stylistics and Syntax in German (GERM 403)

Advanced syntax and style in their application to composition.

Writing the Self: Autofiction in/and the French-Speaking World (FREN 485)

An exploration of the various modes, techniques and impacts of auto-fictional writing in the French-speaking world. Includes a strong creative writing component.

From the Weimar Republic into Exile (GERM 452)

Critical survey of German literature from 1918 to 1945.

Huskers Do Big Things

Internships

  • Students can work in internships as part of our study-abroad programs in Pau and Lyon.

Careers

  • TAPIF teaching-in-France program
  • Hudl
  • Nebraska Department of Education
  • Department of State

Graduate Schools

  • Master’s degree, French Language and Literatures, University of Virginia
  • Master’s degree, German Languages and Literatures, University of Pittsburgh
  • Master’s degree, Linguistics, Ohio State University
  • Juris Doctor degree, Harvard University

Outside the Classroom

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Academics & Experiential Learning

  • Our motto is Academics + Experience = Opportunities. Employers and graduate/professional schools are looking for students who have a strong academic background and hands-on experience.
  • French and German students regularly engage in research or internships, and many study abroad or get involved in service or leadership on campus and beyond.
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Career Preparedness

  • CASC 200: Career Development in Arts and Sciences. Explore your interests, abilities and values while identifying career options and preparing to apply for internships, jobs or graduate/professional school.
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Community

  • Tutor your peers in the Language Lab.
  • Engage with Lincoln Literacy, Table Française, Stammtisch, French or German Club, and Nebraska World Languages.

Have Questions? We're Here to Help

If you have questions about the Modern Languages major or navigating the application process, contact us.

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Contact Name
Nicholas Gordon
Contact Title
Director of Recruitment
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Phone
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