University of Findlay

What you'll study

This programme builds from elementary language instruction to advanced language use while integrating courses in literature, culture and linguistic analysis. You will typically progress through sequential language modules (beginner, intermediate, advanced) focused on speaking, listening, reading and writing, supported by pronunciation and conversation labs.

• Language sequence: Intensive courses in one or more East Asian languages (commonly Chinese and/or Japanese; Korean where available), covering grammar, composition and oral proficiency.
• Literatures and cultures: Survey and specialised courses on classical and modern East Asian literatures, film, cultural history and contemporary social issues.
• Core linguistics: Introductory linguistics, phonetics and phonology, morphology, syntax and sociolinguistics with examples drawn from East Asian languages.
• Applied modules: Translation and interpretation, language pedagogy, contrastive linguistics, and corpus-based approaches to East Asian languages.
• Experiential learning: Capstone project or honours thesis, internships with local companies or cultural organisations, and opportunities for study-abroad or short-term immersion programmes in East Asia to consolidate language skills.

Electives allow students to tailor the degree toward literature, applied linguistics, language teaching or international studies, and the programme emphasises small-group tutorials and faculty-mentored research.

Entry requirements

Admissions are based on completion of secondary education and evidence of academic readiness. Typical entry expectations include a high-school diploma (or equivalent), a transcript showing solid performance in humanities and language-related subjects, and a record of extracurricular interest in languages or international cultures where available.

• Applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or institutional assessment.
• Prior study of a modern language is helpful but not always required; beginners are often admitted into the elementary language sequence.
• Some applicants may be invited for an interview or language placement test to determine appropriate starting level.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with practical language skills, literary and cultural knowledge, and a foundation in linguistic analysis that applies to many sectors. Common career paths include:

• Translation and interpreting for public, private and non-profit sectors.
• Teaching English as a second language or teaching East Asian languages at secondary level (often after teacher certification or postgraduate training).
• International business, trade and global marketing roles that require regional language skills and cultural literacy.
• Government, diplomacy and intelligence work where regional expertise is valued.
• Publishing, journalism, museum and cultural heritage roles focused on East Asian content.
• Further study: postgraduate degrees in linguistics, applied linguistics, library and information science, area studies or graduate-level language teaching qualifications.

Why study at University of Findlay

The University of Findlay offers a personalised liberal-arts environment with small class sizes and direct access to faculty, enabling close mentorship for language acquisition and undergraduate research. Students benefit from practical learning resources such as language labs and media, cross-departmental collaboration with international-business and education programmes, and support for internships and study-abroad placements to gain immersive experience.

Findlay’s emphasis on experiential learning means students often combine classroom study with real-world placements, community language programs and faculty-led research projects—preparing graduates to transfer language and analytical skills into careers or advanced study.