Introduction
Loyola Marymount University (LMU) recognizes the importance of foreign language skills in a globalized world. To foster global citizenship and intercultural competence, LMU requires all undergraduate students to demonstrate proficiency in a foreign language before graduating. This requirement ensures that students develop essential language skills, expand their worldview, and prepare for success in their academic, professional, and personal endeavors.
Policy Overview
All undergraduate students must complete the foreign language requirement by one of the following methods:
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Enroll in and pass LMU language courses: Students can enroll in a sequence of foreign language courses offered by the LMU Language Academy. The required number of courses varies depending on the language chosen.
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Take a foreign language proficiency exam: Students who have previously studied a foreign language can demonstrate their proficiency by taking a standardized exam, such as the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) Oral Proficiency Interview (OPI) or the Defense Language Proficiency Test (DLPT).
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Transfer credits from a previous institution: Students who have completed foreign language courses at another accredited institution may transfer those credits to LMU to fulfill the requirement.
Benefits of Foreign Language Proficiency
Research consistently demonstrates the numerous benefits of foreign language proficiency for students:
- Cognitive Enhancement: Studying a foreign language improves cognitive flexibility, problem-solving skills, and memory.
- Cultural Understanding: Language is a key to understanding and appreciating different cultures, promoting empathy and global awareness.
- Career Advancement: Foreign language skills are highly sought after by employers in a wide range of industries, including business, healthcare, education, and diplomacy.
- Personal Growth: Learning a foreign language fosters personal growth, confidence, and a sense of accomplishment.
Language Options and Course Sequences
LMU offers a variety of foreign language options for students to choose from:
| Language | Course Sequence |
|---|---|
| Arabic | LMAR 101-102 |
| Chinese (Mandarin) | LCHI 101-102 |
| French | LFRE 101-102 |
| German | LGER 101-102 |
| Italian | LITA 101-102 |
| Japanese | LJAP 101-102 |
| Korean | LKOR 101-102 |
| Latin | LLAT 101-102 |
| Russian | LRUS 101-102 |
| Spanish | LSPA 101-102 |
Course Placement and Exemption
Students can determine their appropriate course placement using the following methods:
- Language Placement Exam: LMU offers a free online Language Placement Exam to help students determine their language proficiency and placement in the appropriate course level.
- Prior Language Experience: Students with significant prior language experience may be eligible for course exemption or credit. They should contact the LMU Language Academy for guidance.
FAQs
1. Why is foreign language proficiency required at LMU?
LMU believes that foreign language proficiency is essential for global citizenship, intercultural competence, and academic and professional success in today’s globalized world.
2. Can I fulfill the requirement by taking a language course online or from another institution?
Yes, students can enroll in online or external language courses, but they must be accredited and meet LMU’s proficiency standards. Transfer credits may also be accepted.
3. What is the minimum proficiency level required?
The minimum proficiency level required is Intermediate Low (ACTFL OPI) or B1 (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).
4. Can I take a foreign language proficiency exam instead of taking courses?
Yes, students can take a standardized foreign language proficiency exam to demonstrate their skills.
5. What are the consequences of not meeting the foreign language requirement?
Students who do not meet the foreign language requirement will not be eligible for graduation.
6. What resources are available to support students with language learning?
LMU provides various resources to support students with language learning, including language tutors, language labs, and study groups.
7. How do I request an exemption or transfer credits?
Students should contact the LMU Language Academy for guidance on exemption and transfer credit requests.
8. What are some of the benefits of learning a foreign language?
Foreign language proficiency enhances cognitive skills, promotes cultural understanding, advances career prospects, and fosters personal growth.