World Languages and Cultures University of Massachusetts Lowell

Overview

The World Languages and Cultures programme at the University of Massachusetts Lowell provides students with the essential linguistic skills and cultural awareness required for success in a globalised workforce. This Bachelor of Arts degree encourages students to explore the world through language while building professional competencies in speaking and writing.

Students can choose to focus their studies on specific languages such as French, Spanish, Italian, or Portuguese, or opt for dual-language pathways. The curriculum is designed to be highly flexible, allowing many participants to enhance their academic profile by adding a second major in fields like business, history, or psychology.

Why World Languages and Cultures at University of Massachusetts Lowell?

The University of Massachusetts Lowell offers a unique "Career Connected Experience" guarantee, ensuring every undergraduate can pursue internships, study abroad, or service learning. These opportunities allow students to apply their skills within the multicultural neighbourhoods of Lowell or through international partnerships.

The department also hosts "Canal", an online multilingual journal where students can publish their academic work in various target languages. Expert faculty members support students in connecting their linguistic studies with other disciplines, providing a well-rounded education that integrates research and real-world application.

Facilities include the O'Leary Library and various community partnerships with health centres, museums, and schools. These connections provide a platform for experiential learning, helping students gain practical experience in translation, education, and community engagement before they graduate.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 36610 per year
• National fee: USD 36610 per year
• Local fee: USD 16814 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• World Cultures
• Lusophone Music and Culture
• French Cinema & Society
• Italian Women Writers
• Grimms' Fairy Tales
• Medical Spanish
• Sports, Language, and Identity
• College Writing
• French and Culture
• Italian and Culture
• Spanish and Culture
• Portuguese and Culture
• Literary Analysis
• Senior Capstone in World Languages and Cultures

Careers with World Languages and Cultures

Graduates from the University of Massachusetts Lowell are well-prepared for diverse roles in sectors that value cross-cultural communication. Common career paths include positions in international business, primary and secondary education, healthcare, and government agencies such as the CIA or FBI.

The programme also equips students for specialised roles in interpretation, translation, and diplomacy. Other graduates find success in marketing, advertising, museum exhibit curation, and legal services, where their ability to navigate different cultural contexts provides a significant professional advantage.

The projected job growth for language specialists remains strong, with many alumni entering higher education or social work. By combining language fluency with analytical skills, graduates are ready to meet the demands of the modern, multicultural workplace in both the public and private sectors.