Department of Modern Languages, Literatures, and CulturesAcademics
About the Department
Unlock the Door to a Multicultural Adventure with MLC at Gustavus
At Gustavus, language is more than a group of nouns, verbs, and pesky prepositions. It's a reflection of culture, countries, and communities around the world. Through a curriculum that emphasizes current events and puts language into cultural context, students become intercultural ambassadors who can speak about themselves and their world. The ability to communicate across cultures translates to careers in virtually any field and enables you to be the person that connects individuals, ideas, and international communities.
Discover your path:
Majors, Minors, and Related Programs
Our department is your gateway to cultures, languages, and people that span the globe through the study of Spanish, French, German, Japanese, and Russian. Dream of speaking with Spanish speakers, journeying through Japan, or finding friends in the francophone world? Reach fluency with a language major, complement another degree with a language minor, or simply discover the joy of communicating with others in a new way. With a commitment to work across many disciplines, our department will help you develop into a more informed, connected, and confident global citizen.
Join the Global Community at the Culpeper Language Center
The Culpeper Language Center is a learning and cultural exchange hub open to all students. The Culpeper houses peer tutoring from each department and hosts intercultural and language events. We also welcome students to stop by the recently renovated space between classes to work, relax, and meet new people.
Opportunities in MLC
Immerse Yourself in a World of Language and Culture
At Gustavus, we know the only way to learn a language is to live it. Study abroad, work in local communities with native speakers, practice your skills with tutors and digital resources from our Culpeper Language Learning Center, or get involved with a student club. Through it all, discover all the ins and outs of language that textbooks can't teach.
Explore all Opportunities in MLC
- Student Clubs
- Study Away
- Internships
- Research
Gusties
will
Shine
The MLC Department is a dynamic community filled with curious, motivated students and faculty who are eager to connect with each other and the world, where language learning and cultural exploration intersect. From the engaging pedagogy of our faculty to the thriving multilingual journeys of our students, the MLC Department fosters a rich and rewarding educational experience. On and off the Hill, our students and faculty are continually inspired to grow and pursue their passions.
Jorge Koenen ’25
Spanish Major
“The professors’ aim is to make the learning environment safe and welcoming to facilitate an environment that is optimal for learning.” Jorge was drawn to the Spanish major at Gustavus as someone who grew up speaking Spanish. Being born in Guatemala, he says, “I enjoy learning about the diverse cultures of Spanish-speaking countries.” Jorge is […]
Keep in Touch with Modern Languages, Literatures, and Cultures
Contact Modern Languages, Literatures, and Cultures
Email: mlc-dept@gustavus.eduPhone: 507-933-7391
Confer-Vickner, 231B
800 West College Avenue
Saint Peter, MN 56082