The University of Montana believes there is no better time to learn a second language (or third). The world is more connected than ever, including the ability to travel the globe. Not to mention the many international job opportunities.
Any additional language is an asset on your resume and opens doors to travel and culture. The World Languages and Cultures Department at UM offers a robust selection of foreign languages and culture degrees, spanning nine different languages.
Read on to discover the different language and culture curriculums at UM, meet Ione Crummy, chair of World Languages and Cultures, and open the door to a world of foreign adventure.
Read More: How to Study Abroad at UM
The World Languages and Cultures Department
The World Languages and Cultures Department has a long history at the University of Montana. Students today can choose between various Modern and Classical majors alongside a robust selection of minors, certificates and opportunities to expand your vocabulary. The department also offers several foreign language scholarships to help fund your education.
The WLC Department strongly recommends a study abroad experience for all language majors, and most "immersion" programs are integral parts of the undergraduate curriculum. Additionally, the number and diversity of these opportunities reflect the University's commitment to providing international educational experiences to as many of our students as possible.
Meet Ione Crummy, Chair of World Languages and Cultures
Ione Crummy, professor of French and chair of World Languages and Cultures, grew up in Minnesota. As a kid, she was fascinated with a National Geographic magazine her grandfather showed her about the Loire Valley in France. Spurred to learn French, she studied it in college for two years before going on her first study-abroad trip.
“The first month, I was like a deer caught in the headlights.” Professor Crummy said. “people would say things to me and I was like “What?” And there was a 5-year-old [in my exchange student family] and I would play games with her all the time. I learned a lot from her.”
She continued her education at the University of Minnesota, Moorhead back in the States. After getting her doctorate at Stanford University, Crummy has taught at the University of Montana for the last 29 years.
When asked about the importance of learning a foreign language, Crummy outlines how “being able to connect with people from other countries and other cultures is, I mean it’s fascinating, and it’s good for your ability to function. The world is so interconnected now and things that happen in other countries affect us, and vice versa. Plus, it’s fun, yeah, it’s an adventure”
The University of Montana has the unique opportunity for students to learn from established professors right at the beginning of their education.”The faculty that we have are still very committed to their student’s success and are very experienced professors, they have lots of energy, and great ideas,” said Crummy.
Additionally, Crummy expands on the benefits of foreign language classes because of their small class sizes: “Maybe in some of your majors you're in really big classes, you know, and so in our classes, they tend to be more intimate, you tend to interact with your fellow students, and get to know your professors better.”
Foreign Languages Offered at UM
Below are nine different languages offered by UM and a link to their webpage for more information.
Spanish
The Spanish section is the largest language program in the Department of Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures. They offer undergraduate major and minor opportunities and an undergraduate teaching certificate program. Learn More.
Japanese
UM’s Japanese section ranks among the strongest programs in the northwestern United States. UM offers a full four years of rigorous Japanese language instruction and courses on Japanese history, linguistics, popular culture, and Japanese literature. Learn More.
French
The French program at UM provides a thorough coverage of francophone studies through teachings in literature, culture, philosophy, history, popular culture, films, and politics. Learn More.
German
English and German are Germanic languages and have much in common. The topics covered include travel, history, politics, economy, the environment, and the creative worlds of art, literature, music, and film. Learn More.
Irish
The Irish language provides a window into the soul of a nation and its people. The story of the Irish language is the story of Ireland that allows students to know more intimately the people and culture. Learn More.
Arabic
These courses address the history, culture, politics, and more of Arabic-speaking countries. Learn More.
Chinese
The Chinese language courses prioritize developing oral and aural skills in and learning to read and write Chinese. Learn More.
Russian
The Russian program is small and personal, strongly committed to mentoring students. UM’s Russian program is nationally recognized for both faculty and student accomplishments. Learn More.
Classics
The Bachelor’s degree in Classical Civilization program focuses on ancient readings in modern English translation. Learn More.
Madison Knapp is a student at the University of Montana, majoring in creative writing with a minor in French. She is an out-of-state student from Bellingham, Washington, and has thoroughly enjoyed her time at UM. She is also a DHC student and a proud member of the Grizzly Marching Band. Madison has now taken three semesters of French classes at UM and has felt a great connection with the professors and peers that she has met.