Global Studies and Languages Programs at ISU
I didn't know what to expect when I signed up for ISU. So far, my experience far exceeds my expectations. I've seen online-only programs tend towards the transactional. But the joy and camaraderie I saw on Saturday was quite warm and supportive. I told my spouse that they taught in two sessions what has taken me at least a decade to learn. -ISU MA in Spanish graduate student, 2024
At our institution, we value affordability and strive to make higher education accessible to a wide range of individuals.
For undergraduate students, our program attracts a mix of traditional students as well as those with additional responsibilities, such as young children and families. We also welcome heritage speakers and returned missionaries who bring unique perspectives and experiences to the classroom. Most of our students choose to pursue second majors, such as political science, business, anthropology, or history, alongside their Global Studies and Languages courses.
Our MA program offers competitive tuition rates, and asynchronous online courses to ensure that pursuing a master's degree is within reach for many students. This program is designed to provide a flexible and convenient learning experience for students seeking to advance their education.
Our MA program caters to a diverse demographic, including both graduate and undergraduate students. Graduate students in our program often consist of educators who are looking to further their careers or pursue a Ph.D. They bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the program, contributing to a rich learning environment.
In addition to our MA program, we offer a specialized course called "Spanish for Health Professions." This course is designed for individuals interested in working in healthcare settings where Spanish language skills are essential. It provides students with the necessary linguistic tools and cultural knowledge to effectively communicate with Spanish-speaking patients, thus enhancing their professional opportunities in the healthcare field.
Whether you are an educator seeking career advancement, a traditional or non-traditional undergraduate student with diverse interests, or someone looking to develop Spanish language skills for the health professions, our affordable programs offers a range of options to meet your academic goals.
Why study a foreign language at ISU?
- Offers a sense of a relevant past, both cultural and linguistic.
- Liberalizes one's experience, expanding their view of the world.
- Contributes to the creation of a student's own individual personality.
- Encourages critical reflection on the relationship between language, culture, and thought.
- Fosters an understanding of the interrelation of language and human nature.
- Contributes to cultural awareness and literacy, including knowledge of original texts.
- Contributes to the achievement of national goals, such as economic development or national security.
- Expands opportunities for meaningful leisure activities, such as travel, reading, or watching foreign language films.
- Develops the intellect and enhances learning skills.
- Improves knowledge of the native language through comparison and contrast with the foreign language.
- Exposes learners to modes of thought not present in their native language.
- Builds practical skills for purposes such as travel, commerce, or other disciplines.
- Preserves or fosters a country's image as a cultured nation.
- Teaches and encourages respect for other peoples.
- Enables transfer of training, such as learning a second foreign language.
- Balances content and skills, promoting a holistic learning approach.