The Department of Modern Languages of Villanova University promotes the study of French, Italian and Spanish and has as its mission to teach the language, literature and culture of those areas of the world where those languages are spoken. The Department has a strong commitment to a rigorous and intellectually challenging program of studies; and while perfecting a foreign language, students are also encouraged to develop skills in literary and cultural analysis and in critical thinking. It is expected that the knowledge gained by the acquisition of a new language and its literature and culture will translate into an enrichment of the person’s life. Students will expand their knowledge of themselves and of the world around them, in order to succeed in a global environment. This in turn will foster acceptance of diverse perspectives, thus promoting acceptance and understanding among people of the world, goals intrinsic to the University’s mission and heritage.

The Department fosters a community of teacher/scholars who are continually engaged in research and are therefore best prepared to teach our students. Thus, as part of our mission, most faculty conduct cutting/edge research in literature, linguistics, cultural studies and related fields. Additionally, the Department acknowledges and supports the importance of creative work by our faculty, as it stems from a deep commitment to understanding ourselves and the world.

Acquiring a Second Language

In order to achieve its goals, the Department understands that second language acquisition is an integral part of the entire University learning experience, and therefore encourages its incorporation into the curricula and disciplines of all colleges. It also expects that students be taught with the most current methodology, strategies and technologies available, and assessed according to performance-based procedures.

The Department was established at Villanova University in 1960, with Dr. Stack being its first Chair. French, Italian and Spanish are the languages currently offered. Majors in French, Italian, and Spanish can be obtained. The Department also has a solid Graduate Program in Hispanic Studies at the MA level, leading to studies at the doctoral level.

Department of Modern Languages and Literatures, April 2009.