Bachelor of Arts and Science - French/Spanish & Geography (Optional Co-op)

The Department of Modern Languages & Linguistics offers instruction in three languages: French, Japanese and Spanish (beginner to advanced).

In today's globalized context, students of modern languages are being prepared for membership in a global community that extends far beyond the boundaries of the English-speaking world. Modern Languages is about far more than just learning how to communicate in another language. It’s about exploring other identities and values through language, literature, history and culture in a global community.

Thanks to the small class sizes, innovative instructors and the latest in language-learning technology, this program makes language learning a lively and satisfying experience. At the beginners' and intermediate level the program teaches students to communicate with native speakers, orally and in writing, and introduces students to the everyday life of the speakers of French and Spanish as well as to their music, films and books. Students can continue their study of spoken and written French and Spanish to an advanced level.

Students who study French/Spanish will gain awareness of other cultures through courses in language, literature, and culture and civilization, and through academic and living experiences in Canada or abroad.

Classes are taught in the language being studied — so, French courses are taught in French and Spanish classes in Spanish. Students can specialize in one language or study a combination.

Geography deals with the diverse landscapes around the world. It is about everything from the original formation of the earth’s surface, to the effects humans have on the environment: past, present and future.

The primary focus of the program is to give students the skills necessary to analyze the organization and interaction of all creatures and ecological processes on the planet — and sometimes beyond it — to address real-world issues.

The department is particularly strong in the areas of geographical information science (GIS) and remote sensing, water research and rural & urban studies; areas of spectacular growth in research, teaching and employment for graduates.

Students will have access to the latest hardware and software available in geography, economics, environment, agriculture, ecology, planning etc, as well as state-of-the-art facilities like the Alberta Water and Environmental Science Building. This facility provides the infrastructure to support the research interests of University of Lethbridge’s award-winning faculty, the instructors, as they investigate diverse areas such as: weather and climate, water, glaciers, sediments, plants and insects.

Situated in the Oldman River Valley, the University’s location offers an excellent centre for field research, surrounded by farm and rangelands, and in easy reach of the Rockies and the city of Calgary.