undergraduate
Foreign languages and literature
Best schools with foreign languages and literature
What is a foreign languages and literature major?
Students with a major in foreign languages and literatures focus on one or more modern foreign languages that are not specific as to the name of the language(s) studied, or that are otherwise undifferentiated, or that introduce students to language studies as well as literature at the basic/elementary level.
of students said a highlight of this major was the exposure to diverse perspectives.
of students found this major to be difficult.
of students said they were motivated to select this major because it fit their passion & interest.
of students and alumni plan on being or are currently employed in an occupation related to this major.
How much do foreign languages and literature majors make?
median average salary
$66,000/yr
The national average salary for foreign languages and literature graduates in the United States is $66,000 per year. Those in the top 10 percent make over $170,000 a year, while the bottom 10 percent make under $22,800 a year. While salary ranges can vary by role, industry, and location, foreign languages and literature graduates typically make between $40,600 and $105,000 per year.
How popular is foreign languages and literature as a major?
Each year, around 3,340 students obtain a bachelor’s degree and around 420 students obtain an associate degree in foreign languages and literature. In 2021, 3,203 students received a bachelor's degree and 452 students received an associate degree. This is 7% fewer foreign languages and literature majors than there were in 2020. Foreign languages and literature is one of the most popular majors within foreign languages.
Advice from foreign languages and literature majors
Share your experienceAttend classes regularly and participate in discussions to the best of your ability! Stick with what you have learned in the past without being too scared to branch out from this previous knowledge. Talk with professors and other faculty members about the best options for you because, sometimes, the course of action can be personalized.
Best to focus on one language if one is determined and certain of said language, if not then studying a third language or more can be useful.
Passion is what will drive you towards success so, as long as you’re passionate, you can be successful!
I would say that it can be very rewarding, and very enriching. I would say try to immerse yourself in the culture and language of the language you are trying to learn. For example, making friends from the countries that speak the language you are studying, watching videos, movies, series, shows in the language you are studying and also reading books in the language you are studying. Practice the language you are studying every single day, because practice is the key to proficiency in any language. you need to dedicate time every day to practice speaking, reading, writing, the language you are studying. Some language learning apps are good for this, I say some because not all of them are great. You can also join clubs either at your high schools or universities that are about the language you are studying, and you can improve your language skills while also making beautiful new friends. Finally, if you have the finances and resources to actually travel then I would suggest traveling.
Study as much as you can and there are multiple ways of studying. Hear the language, the different dialects that each language has, and build networking into your specific field. There are so many networking opportunities that you can take advantage of.
