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Academics

Become a global professional and a language specialist.

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Learn Languages, Linguistics, and Cultures Around the World

Modern languages students understand the full complexity of the world we live in and excel in global contexts. In our classes, students learn to:

  • navigate global cultures and contemporary issues;
  • develop proficiencies in second languages;
  • explore the world through studying abroad and internships in other countries; and
  • strengthen their competencies in reading, communication, and writing.
In other words, our students become global professionals that can compete in a multilingual and cross-cultural job market.

Academic Programs

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For Undergraduate Students

Learn about our program offerings at the undergraduate level.

B.A. in 6 different majors - Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Linguistics, and Spanish

Minor fields of study in 11 languages

Minor fields of study in linguistics and TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)

Undergraduate Programs
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Accelerated Law (3+3)

In a partnership with the UM School of Law, students admitted to the Accelerated Law Program may earn baccalaureate and law degrees in 6 years instead of 7 by using first year law school courses to complete their undergraduate degree. They start law school during their senior year.

Accelerated Law Program

Graduate Programs

The University of Mississippi Department of Modern Languages offers two graduate degrees with multiple emphases.

  • graduate student sitting in a faculty office and talking with a professorMaster of Arts (M.A.) in Modern Languages
    • Emphasis in Applied Linguistics and TESOL
    • Emphasis in Languages with a specialization in French, German, or Spanish
    • Emphasis in Linguistics
  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Second Language Studies
    • Emphasis in Applied Linguistics
    • Emphasis in Spanish

Faculty are recognized experts in their fields and are committed to mentoring graduate students as they pursue careers as researchers, teachers, and/or consultants in a variety of professional contexts.

Students already accepted for graduate study at the University of Mississippi by their home departments are eligible for the following graduate minors. See the rules in the online catalog. 

Learn More About the Graduate Programs

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M.A. in Modern Languages

The M.A. program prepares students for careers in teaching, language program administration, international education, and translation, as well as further graduate studies. We offer courses in linguistics, applied linguistics, language pedagogy, literature, and culture for those in a language specialization.

M.A. in Modern Languages
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Ph.D. in Second Language Studies

The Ph.D. program is shaped by the scholarship of the department’s faculty. Graduate courses center on language in use and are grounded in theoretical linguistics. The Spanish emphasis explores culture, language, literature, and film across the Spanish-speaking world.

Ph.D. in Second Language Studies
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    English as a Second Language (ESL) Endorsement

    Current and future licensed Mississippi teachers may enroll in TESOL program coursework for an add-on ESL Endorsement

    ESL Endorsement
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    Certificate in TESOL

    Students who elect to get their one-year certificate in TESOL learn best practices in the teaching of English as a second language.

    Certificate in TESOL