"To know only one's own language is to remain a child."
CiceroIt is the distinctive mark of human beings to invent and use language; and any language is the vital key to understanding the culture and mindset of those who speak it. Learning a language other than your own not only enhances your career and travel opportunities but also broadens your awareness of the similarities and differences between cultures and sharpens your appreciation of your native language and the nuances of thought enshrined within it.
The Jesuit educational tradition has consistently stressed the value of language as an educational and cultural tool. Faculty from diverse countries and educational backgrounds contribute their talents and energy to deliver carefully planned and individually supervised majors (French Studies, Japanese Studies, and Spanish Studies), minors (French Studies , Spanish Studies, Chinese Studies, Japanese Studies, German Studies) and a certificate program (Japanese Studies) in the truly cosmopolitan setting of San Francisco and the Bay Area.
The department also houses the Language and Culture Center to service students in their foreign language writing and communication skills.
