English and European Languages and Cultures Program

This program examines the diverse relationships between language and humans, through the lenses of the English, German, and French languages. We aim to cultivate a strong command of these languages and deep, broad understandings of the Western cultures that underlie them, so that students can nurture the rich sensibilities and intellectual imagination they will need for life in this global era.

Educational Policy

Students who want to further pursue their interest in English can study more specialized “real English.” Those starting their studies of German or French as university students and who want to learn more can receive further instruction, step by step, in their second year and beyond. As students study these languages, they develop insights from a variety of aspects into literature written in these languages, as well as into both traditional culture and contemporary society in Western countries. By cultivating a tenacious yet flexible critical spirit, built on a foundation of words, students make discoveries not only about the Western “other,” but also learn things they never realized about themselves.

Studying in This Program

The choice of whether to focus deeply on English, German, or French and that language’s literature, or to engage in intersectional research comparing and contrasting more than one language, is up to each individual student. Regardless of which path they take, students acquire a broad knowledge of general linguistics and literary studies, through a combination of lectures and practical seminar subjects on these three languages and cultures. This program also actively supports international study programs in not only English-speaking countries, but also in Germany, France, and other partner institutions throughout Europe.