A Bachelor of Arts degree in a modern foreign language is a true liberal arts degree, with all the breadth of cultural understanding and communication skills that characterize liberal arts study. The demand for speakers of foreign languages is increasing both in schools and in business and industry. Combined with a major or minor in another field, the B.A. in foreign languages opens many possibilities in the worlds of international trade, international relations, diplomacy, government, tourism, and service organizations.

Given the increasing diversity of the American population and the presence of large numbers of people whose native language is not English, foreign language study is also an asset to those who plan to work in a variety of professions within the borders of the United States, both in the public and private spheres. Virtually all large corporations and many smaller ones in Michigan and throughout the country are now or soon will be active in international markets. There have never been more opportunities for college graduates with foreign language skills.