Modern Languages and Cultures at SUNY Plattsburgh

Gain a global perspective.

What good is a degree in modern languages and cultures? Consider globalization, both on our local and national economy, and the answer becomes obvious.

Successfully merging local and global requires great language skills. These skills are key to truly understanding the cultural expressions of our friends, allies, and competitors on the world stage. But simply competing is not enough — speaking a foreign language gives you the tools to compete smartly.

Our expert faculty teach a wide range of courses in language, literature, cinema, culture, and teaching methods. Students who study anthropology, business, government and public policy, gender studies, political science and law can greatly increase their job marketability if they possess a solid grounding in foreign languages.

Whether taken as a double major or as a minor, foreign language can be the compass guiding you to a fulfilling career. A degree in foreign language equips you with a secure understanding of the cultures and the languages of the major players across all disciplines. A foreign language is a sound investment, a visa to the world. Don't leave college without it!

Acquire language and culture competency.

  • Reach an advanced proficiency in oral and written language.
  • Develop a better understanding and appreciation of the cultures, geography, politics, and social economic structures of the countries using each of the languages offered.
  • Learn and critically assess the countries' major literary, artistic, and aesthetic productions.
  • Gain an even deeper perspective through a myriad of study abroad destinations.
  • Explore neighboring Montreal, Québec City, and Ottawa for a day or a weekend as part of a class, a club, or individually.

Why study modern languages and cultures at SUNY Plattsburgh?

Simply put: expert faculty and great location!

Under the stewardship of a highly qualified faculty, we offer majors in French and Spanish, and serve the concentration needs for prospective teachers in the B.A./M.S.T. program. We also offer minor programs in French and Spanish; and a sequence of courses in German and linguistics. Moreover, courses in Arabic, Italian, Portuguese, and Russian are also offered occasionally.

Enjoy the college's scenic surroundings Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Park plus its proximity to Montreal, Burlington, and Lake Placid. Would you like to practice your French? Enjoy a cultural and linguistic immersion day trip with classmates or on your own. Would you like to use your Spanish during Spring break while helping others? Check out our faculty-led service learning global field trips!

Programs of Study





Questions, Comments, Suggestions?


Dr. Jean Ouedraogo, Chair
Office: Champlain Valley Hall 315
Phone: (518) 564-3833
Email: jean.ouedraogo@plattsburgh.edu

SUNY Plattsburgh
Department of Modern Languages and Cultures
Champlain Valley Hall 311
Plattsburgh, NY 12901