Overview

The Modern Foreign Languages programme at James Madison University provides students with a rigorous academic foundation in global linguistics and cultural studies. This degree prepares graduates to navigate contemporary society by fostering deep cross-cultural understanding and advanced communication skills in multiple languages.

Students within this major engage with the Department of World Languages and Cultures, housed in the College of Arts and Letters. The curriculum is designed to go beyond basic vocabulary, encouraging students to explore the literature and history of their chosen language. This holistic approach ensures that graduates are not just speakers, but culturally competent professionals ready for the international stage.

Why Modern Foreign Languages at James Madison University?

The university offers an impressive breadth of linguistic instruction, ranging from ancient Latin to modern Arabic and Japanese. Students benefit from a structured academic environment where they can earn both a major in Modern Foreign Languages and a minor in a specific language to enhance their credentials. The programme is known for its intensive focus on upper-division coursework, ensuring high levels of fluency.

Facilities and resources at the institution support immersive learning, including study abroad programmes that allow students to practice their skills in native environments. The department’s commitment to global citizenship is reflected in its diverse faculty and its emphasis on understanding the nuances of contemporary global society. This distinctive teaching approach prepares students to adapt to various international contexts.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 15953 per semester
National fee: USD 15953 per semester
Local fee: USD 7150 per semester

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

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Arabic
French
German
Italian
Spanish
Chinese
Russian
Japanese
Korean
Latin
Business French
Business German
Business Italian
Business Spanish
Law Enforcement Spanish
Legal Spanish
Medical Spanish
Translation & Interpretation

Careers with Modern Foreign Languages

Graduates are well-equipped for a diverse range of professional paths in both the public and private sectors. Many find success in roles such as professional interpreters, translators, and language consultants. The ability to communicate across borders is highly valued in international business, government agencies, and non-profit organisations, providing a competitive edge in the global job market.

Recent alumni have secured positions in education as language teachers, while others work in specialised fields such as medical interpretation or project management. Industries ranging from finance and technology to public affairs and social services actively seek the bilingual skills fostered by this programme. The degree also serves as an excellent foundation for advanced graduate studies in linguistics or international relations.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Business German

Business Italian

Business Spanish

Chinese

French

German

Italian

Law Enforcement Spanish

Legal Spanish

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-06-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-01-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-15 00:00:00 , National

More details

National students: Regular Decision - January 15.

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

120

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Harrisonburg, United States

Disciplines

Language Studies View 2641 other Bachelors in Language Studies in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.2

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

120

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Successful completion of the equivalent of a US secondary education
Minimal 2.25 GPA (Grade Point Average) - equivalent to 77-79% or a 'C+' average
Diploma or certification of graduation from High School in your home country
Undergraduate applicants who intend to major in theater, dance, music and studio art must also submit a portfolio and/or arrange an audition.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

31906 USD / year

≈ 31906 USD / year
Out-of-State

31906 USD / year

≈ 31906 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

14300 USD / year

≈ 14300 USD / year

Living costs

Harrisonburg

United States

1050 - 1715 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Modern Foreign Languages.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Harrisonburg

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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