Latina/Latino Studies

Major Description

The Undergraduate Major in Latina/Latino Studies explores the experiences and lives of Latinas/ os history of Latinas/os in the context of the United States. The major provides a broad and deep approach to theory, research, and multidisciplinary study of the Latina/o experience and cultures. Students will complete 34 hours of required and elective courses, and a minimum of 18 hours of supporting course work or a minor in an area outside of the major. Students majoring in Latina/ Latino Studies receive excellent preparation for graduate study or careers in education, social and welfare policy, counseling, law, public policy, and other fields that address Latino issues. Latina/ os are now the largest minority group in the United States, making up 17% of the population. As a consequence, knowledge of this group has become indispensable if students are to be engaged citizens and forward-thinking leaders in today’s society. Furthermore, educational institutions, government agencies, corporations, and other employers are always looking to hire individuals who understand the complex histories, cultures, and socio-economic conditions of Latina/o communities.

More About Latina/Latino Studies

Degree Requirements

ICT Requirements

Courses That Introduce the Major

LLS 100—Intro Latina/Latino Studies
LLS 220—Latina/o Migration
LLS 230—Latina/o Genders & Sexualities
LLS 240—Latina/o Popular Culture

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities

Latina/Latino Studies graduates go on to pursue advanced study or careers in law, business, education, politics, the humanities, and social sciences.

Common Career Skills

Ability to adjust to new environments
Ability to think logically and quickly
Ability to understand and interact effectively with diverse populations
Ability to think critically and creatively
Background of general knowledge
Effective leadership and community engagement
Good listening, clarifying and responding skills
High proficiency in reading, speaking and writing
Sensitivity to advocacy and activism

Common Career Titles

Admissions Counselor
Archivist
Arts Administration and Curation
Attorney
Business Manager
Community Affairs Specialist
Conflict Resolution Specialist
Consultant
Consumer Advocate
Counselor
Cultural Affairs Officer
Editor or Writer
Employee Relations Specialist
Foreign Service Officer
Foreign Student Advisor
Health Care Worker
Historic Preservation Spec
Historic Site Administrator
Import or Export Specialist
International Banker
International Consultant
Int’l Relations Specialist
Interpreter
K-12 Educator
Lawyer
Lobbyist
Market Research Specialist
Museum Curator
Non-profit Administrator
Peace Corps or VISTA Worker
Professor or Educator
Public Administrator
Public Information Officer
Public Policy Specialist
Public Relations Specialist
Publications Specialist
Social Worker
Translator
Travel Consultant

Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

Participating in undergraduate research
Applying for a study abroad experience
Utilizing resources of The Career Center
Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
- La Colectiva: informs the UIUC population about issues of social justice that concerns the Latino/a community and students of color.
- Latino Student Association: The Latino Student Association’s mission is to foster cultural awareness, leadership skills and educational success for the Latino student at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
- I-CAUSE: I-CAUSE is a service and advocacy organization that works in solidarity with the undocumented community, focusing primarily on equal secondary educational opportunities for all students, regardless of legal status. We work to educate the University of Illinois and the community about issues of DACA/undocumented students, educational access, and immigration. We collaborate with other social justice organizations for service projects, panels, fundraisers and more. We seek to be involved in our community and welcome all individuals into our organization.
- MEChA: MEChA is a majority Latinx student organization that promotes further education, engagement in the community, political participation, history and culture.

Further Information

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Latina/Latino Studies. Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Latina/Latino Studies. These organizations include Latina/o Studies Association, Latin American Studies Association and Latin American Network Information Center, Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU), UNIDOS US, MALDEF, NALEO Educational Fund, and Congressional Hispanic Caucus.

To find out more and see past distinguished alumni, visit Department of Latina/Latino Studies.

Latin American Studies

Major Description

Depending upon the student’s interests and career aspirations, individual programs of study are designed in close consultation with the Associate Director of the Center, who also serves as the academic advisor. The undergraduate program reflects an integrative, cross-disciplinary approach, and courses must be taken from these categories: LAST 170-Introduction to Latin American Studies; Approved courses with content focused on Latin America; Approved courses with content focused on Latin America in a global context; LAST 490 – Independent Study, or approved Study Abroad course, or approved service-learning course. Courses for the major must be selected in consultation with the Associate Director of the Center. Students are also expected to demonstrate a substantial command of a Latin American language (Spanish, Portuguese, Quechua or other Native American language indigenous to Mesoamerica or South America), either by passing a proficiency examination or through advanced courses of Latin American language(s) beyond the general Liberal Arts and Sciences language requirement.

More About Latin American Studies

Degree Requirements

ICT Requirements

Courses That Introduce the Major

LAST 170—Introduction to Latin America
LAST 210—Life in the Andes

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities

A major in Latin American Studies can lead to careers in business, government, law, non-profit work, K-12 education, as well as further graduate study.

Common Career Skills

Advanced language proficiency in Spanish/ Portuguese/Quechua
Analytical writing
Become knowledgeable of other cultures, languages, institutions–an ability to analyze across cultural or national lines
Cultural Competency
Critical Reasoning
Critical Thinking
Develop ability to adapt and appreciate others and their lifestyle
Gain and develop language skills
Learn problem solving skills
Sensitivity to cultural perceptions/viewpoint
Understand and adapt programs, products, and services to the cultural background of the audience
Understand and interact with people who are culturally diverse
Written Communication

Common Career Titles

Admissions Counselor
Archivist
Attorney
Business Manager
CIA or FBI Agent
College Professor
Community Affairs Specialist
Conflict Resolution Specialist
Consultant
Consumer Advocate
Counselor
Cultural Affairs Officer
Customs or Immigration Officer
Editor or Writer
Employee Relations Specialist
Federal Government Law
Foreign Service Officer
Foreign Student Advisor
Historic Preservation Spec
Historic Site Administrator
Import or Export Specialist
International Banker
International Consultant
Int’l Relations Specialist
Interpreter
K-12 Educator
Lobbyist
Market Research Specialist
Medicine
Museum Curator
Non-profit Administrator
Peace Corps or VISTA Worker
Professor or Educator
Public Administrator
Public Information Officer
Public Policy Specialist
Public Relations Specialist
Publications Specialist
Translator
Travel Consultant

Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

Participating in undergraduate research
Applying for a study abroad experience
- Participating in LAST 395: Archaeology Field School in Peru
Utilizing resources of The Career Center
Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
- La Colectiva: informs the Illinois population about issues of social justice that concerns the Latino/a community and students of color.
- Hermandad de Sigma Iota Alpha Inc.: strives towards the expansion of awareness of the Latino culture among the community, while establishing ourselves as educated, strong, and united women.
- Peruvian Student Association
- Capoeria Club at Illinois
- Central and South American Students Association
- Luso-Brazilian Association
- Mi Pueblo Spanish Conversation Group

Further Information

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Latin American Studies. Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Latin American Studies. These organizations include Latin American Studies Association and Latin American Network Information Center.

Italian

Major Description

Italian offers courses in language, literature, film, linguistics, and cultural studies. Our courses beyond Italian language cover Italy’s literary and cultural heritage from Dante to contemporary Italian film. Many courses are taught in Italian, but we regularly offer courses in English, such as Italian cinema and Dante. Majors find that their work in Italian helps prepare them for careers in business, law, science, medicine, international relations and education, among others.

More About Italian

Degree Requirements

ICT Requirements

Courses That Introduce the Major

ITAL 101—Elementary Italian I
ITAL 102—Elementary Italian II
ITAL 103—Intermediate Italian I
ITAL 104—Intermediate Italian II
ITAL 200—Intro Italian Literature
ITAL 210—Practical Review Italian

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities

Italian prepares students personally and professionally for their future goals.

Common Career Skills

Critical thinking
Creating and clarifying ideas
Clear and concise writing
Ability to persuade/influence
Oral presentation/public speaking
Language competence for speaking, writing, reading and listening
Good listening, clarifying and responding skills
High proficiency in reading, speaking and writing
Comprehensive command of grammar and vocabulary
Cross-cultural communication
Working social and professional competence in Italian
Understanding of Italian history, literature, music, and folklore
Understanding of cultural differences

Common Career Titles

Account Executive
Analyst
Anthropologist
Archeologist
Bilingual Instructor (ESL)
CIA or FBI Agent
Civil Service Worker
Copy Editor
Corporate Specialist
Customs Official
Diplomat
Diplomat
Foreign News Journalist
Foreign Services Worker
Foreign Travel Advisors
Historian
Immigration Specialist
Import or Export Agent
Information Science Archivist
Intelligence Specialist
International Engineering Aide
Interpreter
Italian Language Teacher
Language Researcher
Linguist
Museum Curator
Peace Corps Volunteer
Scientific Researcher or Translator
Speech Pathologist
Technical Liaison
Textbook Author or Editor
Translator

Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

Participating in undergraduate research
Applying for a study abroad experience
Utilizing resources of The Career Center
Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
- The Italian Club: the Italian Program is also home to a thriving Italian Club, organized by undergraduate Italian enthusiasts. The Club promotes Italian language and culture through conversation, guest speakers, and cultural activities.
- Model European Union: provides students with an opportunity to learn about and simulate the inner workings of the European Union while attending conferences around the United States. The EU is becoming an increasingly important organization in the world and Model European Union provides students an ability to learn how bills are debated and passed, and is an excellent addition to any student studying or interested in European, International, or Political studies.
- Graduate Students of French: better serve the needs of students enrolled in a graduate program in French, to organize social and cultural events.

Further Information

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Italian. Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Italian. These organizations include Modern Language Association and American Association of Teachers of Italian.

Interdisciplinary Studies

Major Description

Interdisciplinary studies is designed to acquaint students in a coherent manner with specific topics that cross disciplinary boundaries. Each concentration is supervised by faculty members whose own scholarship and educational interests have involved interdisciplinary teaching and research.

Although it is not possible to offer concentrations in all specialties or topics of humanistic study, students whose interests do not coincide with one of the specific concentrations are encouraged to consider developing their own programs through the Individual Plans of Study (IPS) major.

More About Interdisciplinary Studies

Degree Requirements

ICT Requirements

Concentrations

Two concentrations are offered through Interdisciplinary Studies.

Jewish Studies

Provides the student with knowledge of the Hebrew language, the opportunity to begin study of Yiddish, and a broad appreciation of Jewish religion, culture, and history.

Medieval Civilization

Introduces students to medieval culture, provides them with a sense of periods and movements, names, ideas, and values, and consequently provides a synoptic view of the field. The required courses encourage the reading of medieval documents, the interpretation of art, and the study of Latin and the medieval vernacular languages of the period.

Courses That Introduce the Major

Jewish Studies:

HEBR 201 – Elementary Modern Hebrew I
HEBR 202 – Elementary Modern Hebrew II
YDSH 101- Beginning Yiddish I

Medieval Civilization:

MDVL 201 – Medieval Literature and Culture

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities

Interdisciplinary programs of study can help prepare students for many different paths.

Common Career Skills

Critical analysis skills: the ability to analyze a situation and come up with creative and practical solutions.
Curiosity and inquisitiveness: the desire to learn more and to continue learning, to examine reasons beneath issues, and to come to understand them as part of a continual, life-long, education process.
Effective writing skills: the ability to successfully and precisely communicate one’s ideas in text.
Interdisciplinary thinking and training: the ability to think about a problem in a multitude of ways, to analyze it using multiple tools, and to provide solutions which draw from different traditions of thought.
Research skills: the ability to understand past practices and policies and to trace the roots of any issue, to find new information which bears on that issue, and to incorporate that information into one’s analysis of an issue.

Common Career Titles

Advertising Copywriter
Anthropologist
Archeologist
Archivist
Attorney
Business Manager
Columnist/Reporter
Community Relations Director
Congressional Aide
Consultant
Consumer Advocate
Copy Writer
Counselor
Criminologist
Cultural Affairs Officer
Customer Relations Rep
Customs/Immigration Officer
Demographer
Economist
Editor
Editor/Writer
FBI/CIA Agent
Foreign News Correspondent
Foreign Service Officer
Genealogist
Government Agency Administrator
Government Official
Historian
Historic Preservation Spec
Historic Site Administrator
Historical Society Staff
Human Resources Specialist
Insurance Agent / Broker
Intelligence Analyst
International Consultant
International Relations Specialist
International Trade Specialist
Journalist
Lawyer
Lecturer
Legal Assistant / Paralegal
Librarian
Lobbyist
Market Research Analyst
Media Consultant
Museum Curator
Non-profit Administrator
Peace Corps/VISTA Worker
Political Scientist
Politician
Public Administrator
Public Information Officer
Public Policy Specialist
Public Relations Specialist
Public Service Official
Research Assistant
Sociologist
Technical Writer
Tour Organizer/Guide
Travel Agent
Urban Administrator
Writer / Author

Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

Participating in undergraduate research
Participating in the activities of the thriving Medieval Studies Program, which organizes conferences, lecture and film series, performances and plays.
Applying for a study abroad experience
Utilizing resources of The Career Center
Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
- Chabad Jewish Student Association: provides the university community with an opportunity to foster awareness of Jewish cultural and spiritual heritage, values and traditions; to educate students in Jewish teachings and thoughts; to facilitate observance of rituals and customs.

Further Information

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Interdisciplinary Studies. Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Interdisciplinary Studies. These organizations include Jewish Communal Service Association and Medieval Academy of America.

History

Major Description

History imparts the vital skills of discernment and synthesis through critical thinking, reading, and writing skills. It confronts students with worlds, times, places, and cultures, including their own, in ways they never before considered. To study history is to engage intellectually in the confrontation of peoples, ideas, and values because the past, no matter the society, is a foreign country.

More About History

Degree Requirements

ICT Requirements

Concentrations

History offers two different concentrations.

History

General concentration in history that can lead to work in a variety of different areas.

Social Science: History Teaching

Intended for students planning to complete the Teacher Education Minor in Secondary School Teaching. Also take a look at the Teacher Education Minor in Secondary School Teaching.

Courses That Introduce the Major

HIST 100—Global History
HIST 103—Big History
HIST 104—Black Music
HIST 141/142—Western Civilization to 1660 / Western Civilization since 1660
HIST 171/172—US History to 1877/US History since 1877
HIST 200—Introduction to Historical Interpretation

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities

History provides a solid foundation for careers in a number of fields, including in government, law, social work, museum and library science, marketing, publishing, business administration, education, and labor and industrial relations.

Common Career Skills

Ability to communicate ideas and information clearly and effectively
Ability to appreciate diverse perspectives
Ability to collect/organize historical data
Ability to conduct/explain scientific research
Ability to identify/evaluate records of the past
Ability to interpret complex material
Ability to make observations/solve problems
Ability to observe people/data
Ability to see relationships
Proficiency in reading comprehension
Strong writing skills

Common Career Titles

Anthropologist
Archeologist
Archivist
Community Relations Director
Consumer Advocate
Criminologist
Demographer
Economist
FBI or CIA Agent
Foreign News Correspondent
Foreign Service Officer
Genealogist
Government Official
Historian
Historic Preservationist
Intelligence Analyst
International Relations Specialist
Journalist
Lawyer
Librarian
Market Research Analyst
Media Consultant
Museum Curator
Peace Corps or Vista Worker
Political Scientist
Public Relations Specialist
Sociologist
Teacher
Travel Agent
Urban Administrator
Writer or Author

Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

Participating in undergraduate research
Applying for a study abroad experience
Take advantage of individual mentoring offered by award-winning faculty.
Take advantage of robust internship, scholarship, and career development opportunities within the department.
Utilizing resources of The Career Center and LAS Career Services
Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
- History Undergraduate Journal: The Undergraduate History Journal at Illinois leads the effort to publish original undergraduate research. Join the journal team and develop skills in research, editing, and writing, or submit your original research and possible be featured in the next issue!
- Model United Nations: Provides opportunity for students to learn about the purpose, structure, and history of the United Nations through open forum discussion of issues pertaining to real world scenarios.
- Phi Alpha Theta: A professional society that promotes the study of history.
- The Society of Minority Students in History: Supports racial, ethnic, and LGBTQ+ students and strives to dismantle the misconception of what studying History looks like and who scholars of history are.

Further Information

There are numerous professional organizations dedicated to History. Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of History. These organizations include American Historical Association and Organization of American Historians.

Global Studies

Major Description

Global Studies is an interdisciplinary undergraduate major that provides a strong foundation in the analysis of contemporary global issues through coursework, research, and experiential learning including study abroad. Through the major, students will learn to 1) combine theories and methods of multiple social science disciplines to view the most pressing global issues from a variety of perspectives; 2) utilize advanced language and cultural skills to work professionally with diverse groups of people; 3) apply specialized skills and expertise to address global challenges that suit their strengths and interests.

The major consists of three principle components: interdisciplinary global studies foundations, language and culture studies (including study abroad), and thematic areas. Students work with an academic advisor to construct an individualized Plan of Study that reflects their interests, goals and proficiencies, taking courses in a number of departments to enrich, complement, and coordinate knowledge of other cultures and global processes from an interdisciplinary perspective. The competencies established through the Global Studies major prepare students for careers in business, public policy, international affairs, government, law, public health, non-profit sector, communications, education, and sustainable development among other areas.

More About Global Studies

Degree Requirements

ICT Requirements

Concentrations

Each student chooses one thematic area (or approved combination of relevant areas):

Cultures In Contact

Students declaring this thematic area specialize in understanding the bearings of a globalized world on the culture, traditions, religion, social interactions and assimilation of different population groups. The medium of this cultural exchange can be migration of people, international trade in goods and services, globalization of business strategies and pervasive presence of media and advertising. Students expand their knowledge horizons by learning about the socio-cultural beliefs and lifestyles of other ethnicities, nationalities, religions and gender. This enables them to develop their own local and global identities and embrace cultural diversity around them. Students gain practical skills such as communication strategies, social action strategies and effective decision-making strategies that can help them to negotiate competing interests in an increasingly multicultural workplace.

Environment, Sustainability and Social Responsibility (ESSR)

This thematic area is a good fit for students who are interested in studying scientific and human aspects of environment and sustainability. Scientific aspects of environment include land restoration, strategies to control pollution, efficient use of energy resources and discovering sustainable ways of living in a world facing climate change. The human aspect of ESSR may include topics such as environmental justice, corporate social responsibility, implementation of green business strategies, politics and economics of conservation etc. Students learn about the efforts being made in the area of environmental sustainability and how they might be extended to preserving vulnerable populations, flora and fauna. Students also learn methods to become active participants in the environmental sustainability movement at the global level.

Global Health

Students who wish to learn about the causes and consequences of disparities in health conditions, health practices and health care systems declare Global Health as a thematic area. Additionally, students who are driven by the desire of providing equal access to health resources or develop cultural tolerance towards alternative medical systems may also declare this thematic area. Students of Global Health study social aspects of health provision and methods of overcoming these obstacles at the global level. They build their knowledge base by learning about health systems in United States and abroad, racial and ethnic inequalities in health care provision, the customs dominating health care systems in other cultures and health policy implementation at the national and global levels. Students also work towards understanding the importance of global achievement of the millennium development goals and how better health outcomes can aid sustainable development around the world.

Governance, Conflict and Resolution (GCR)

This thematic area in LAS Global Studies is ideal for students who wish to study world security and global governance in a holistic fashion. Students of GCR adopt an interdisciplinary perspective of approaching international relations, conflict and security, diplomacy and conflict resolution and global peace; instead of relying on a single academic discipline to build their knowledge base. Students in GCR benefit from adopting an open-minded attitude towards global governance, and realize the importance of multiple actors and agencies to solve world problems. The ability to develop skills of logic, diplomacy, negotiation, conflict management and politics from the point of view of multiple actors is a crucial skill to survive in a multilateral world.

Human Rights

The thematic area in human rights is designed for students who are passionate about the provision of equal opportunity to all human beings. Students who wish to identify the prevalent inequalities in the world and in different social settings, understand the root of these disparities and work towards the elimination of such discrimination where possible, declare human rights as their thematic area. The coursework students undertake helps them to understand social differences and their effect on human rights, helps them develop ethical responses to human rights abuses and teaches them skills to successfully advocate for human rights of various interest groups. Students in this thematic area can also choose to specialize in group rights of different kinds, instead of gaining general knowledge.

Knowledge, Communication and Information Systems (KCIS)

The ability to communicate and learn about communities beyond our immediate social circle has been the one of the biggest gifts of globalization. The tools that have made it possible are language and information technology. Students who declare KCIS as a thematic area work towards the understanding of these information and communication chains and how they create global knowledge systems and information systems. They explore the role of language, education and information technology as enablers of social, economic and political change around the world. A student might take coursework that helps them understand the interrelated processes of globalization, communication and knowledge disbursement through various medium such as internet, education, tourism and news and popular media. Students who are interested in understanding the logistics of information transfer, knowledge flows and effective communication strategies might also declare KCIS as a thematic area.

Wealth and Poverty

The thematic area in Wealth & Poverty helps students to understand the causes and consequences of poverty and inequality in the world. Students interested in this thematic area learn about why some countries are richer than others, the challenges to development faced by the global south and how globalization can improve and worsen the conditions of the extremely poor. Students that are interested in community development, international development, economic growth, international trade, foreign aid or political economy of development can declare Wealth & Poverty as a thematic area. The students in this thematic area study the Millennium Development Goals and the agenda for sustainable development in depth as well.

Courses That Introduce the Major

GLBL 100—Intro to Global Studies
GLBL 220—Governance
GLBL 240 – Global Health
GLBL 250 – Development
GLBL 260 – Global Human Rights
GLBL 296—Global Studies Foundation Seminar
See Interdisciplinary Foundations for courses offered by several social science departments (Anthropology, Economics, Geography, History, Political Science, and Sociology).

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities

The Global Studies major prepares students for today’s highly competitive global markets, in which flexibility and cultural competency are essential. Professionals are expected to undertake a variety of different tasks, and they may be stationed at a variety of locations around the globe and/or work with in an intercultural setting. This major provides students with a set of core competencies and experiences that make them, as graduates, highly attractive to global corporations, non-governmental organizations, and the public sector (e.g., State Department, CIA, USAID).

Common Career Skills

Cross-cultural and international analysis
Economic and political analysis,
Quantitative and qualitative research
Historical and cultural analysis
Professional written and spoken communication skills
Advanced foreign language and cultural proficiency
Problem-solving and critical thinking skills

Common Career Titles

Congressional Aide
Economist
Foreign Language Teacher
Foreign Service Officer
Global Health Policy Analyst or Practitioner
Immigration Lawyer
International Aid Worker
International Banker
International Trade Specialist
Interpreter or Translator
Journalist
Labor Relations Specialist
Policy Analyst
Professor
Program Officer at an NGO
Public Relations Specialist
Tourism Specialist

Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

Participating in undergraduate research
Applying for a study abroad experience
Utilizing resources of The Career Center
Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
- AIESEC Illinois: serve as an international platform for young people to explore and develop their leadership potential to create a positive impact in society.
- Model United Nations Illinois: provides members with opportunities to participate in United Nations simulations on the national circuit, utilizing their passion for world issues and strengthening skills in negotiation, research, persuasion, writing, and public speaking.
- Other Global Studies Focused RSOs.

Further Information

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Global Studies. Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Global Studies. These organizations include Global Studies Research Network and Global Studies Association.

Germanic Studies

Major Description

The majors in German Studies, German Business and Commercial Studies, and Scandinavian Studies develop competence in German or Scandinavian cultures and languages, and become familiar with business, contemporary political and social issues, intellectual history, literature, and science in these cultures. Majors become adept at intercultural communication, a sought-after ability by employers and graduate programs. Students learn linguistic structures of their chosen language, and also learn how cultures find expression through their languages, literatures, and cultures. These majors lead to careers in the law, in business, finance, government, non-profit organizations, teaching, information technology and services, and more.

More About Germanic Studies

Degree Requirements

ICT Requirements

Concentrations

Several concentrations are offered through the major.

German Business and Commercial Studies

Designed to provide students with an understanding of the language and customs of the business world in German-speaking countries, together with study of international affairs and commerce, especially trade with Europe.

German Studies

Designed as a traditional study of German, providing students with a balanced knowledge of German language, literature, and civilization.

Scandinavian Studies

Designed for students with a broad interest in Scandinavian Studies, including acquiring proficiency in a modern Scandinavian language (Danish, Norwegian or Swedish) and a study abroad experience in Scandinavia.

Curriculum Preparatory to the Teaching of German

Leads to the Bachelor or Arts in the Teaching of German.

Courses That Introduce the Major

Any course in GER or SCAN potentially can introduce the major. Students should consult with the Director of Undergraduate Studies about course selection, prior to the registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities

Majoring in German Studies, German Business and Commercial Studies, or Scandinavian Studies can lead to careers in the law, in business, finance, government, non-profit organizations, teaching, information technology and services, and more.

Common Career Skills

Ability to persuade/influence
Clear and concise writing
Comprehensive command of grammar and vocabulary
Creating and clarifying ideas
Critical thinking
Cross-cultural communication
Good listening, clarifying and responding skills
High proficiency in reading, speaking and writing
Language competence for speaking, writing, reading and listening
Oral presentation/public speaking
Understanding of cultural differences
Understanding of Germanic history, literature, music, and folklore
Working social and professional competence in German or Scandinavian language

Common Career Titles

Account Executive
Analyst
Anthropologist
Archaeologist
Bilingual Instructor (ESL)
CIA/FBI Special Agent
Civil Service Worker
Community Relations Rep.
Copy Editor
Corporate Specialist
Customs Official
Employment Interviewer
Foreign Correspondent
Foreign News Journalist
Foreign Services Worker
Foreign Travel Advisors
Historian
Hotel Manager
Immigration Specialist
Import/Export Agent
Information Science/Archivist
Intelligence Specialist
International Engineering Aide
Interpreter
Language Researcher
Linguist
Museum Curator
Overseas Teacher for Foreign
Peace Corps Volunteer
Personnel Manager
Scientific Researcher/ Translator
Service Representative
Speech Pathologist
Teacher
Technical Liaison to US firms in foreign countries
Textbook Author/Editor
Translator

Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

Participating in undergraduate research
Applying for a study abroad experience
Utilizing resources of The Career Center
Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
- Deutschklub: promotes the German culture and language in the U of I community.
- Scandanavian Club: increases community appreciation of Scandinavian cultures by celebrating them in ways that are not only educational, but also are fun.

Further Information

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Germanic languages. Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Germanic languages. These organizations include Modern Language Association, American Association of Teachers of German, and Women in German.

Gender & Women’s Studies

Major Description

The Department of Gender and Women’s Studies offers a rigorous and encouraging intellectual environment in which to pursue an undergraduate GWS major or minors in GWS or Queer Studies. Our award-winning faculty teach interdisciplinary perspectives on gender and its intersections with other relations of power, such as sexuality, race, indigeneity, class, nationality, religion, and ability. GWS classes draw on a wide range of disciplines, including anthropology, history, philosophy, political science, sociology, and literary studies, among others. As a student in our department, you will develop skills in critical thinking, analytical research, writing and other forms of communication. Whether a GWS major, minor, or a learner in one of our innovative and challenging courses, GWS students develop the knowledge and language to dismantle taken-for-granted assumptions about the world around us, and acquire a deeper understanding of social justice. In Gender and Women’s Studies, we give students the knowledge and the tools to transform the world.

More About GWS

Degree Requirements

ICT Requirements

Courses That Introduce the Major

GWS 100—Intro Gender and Women’s Studies
GWS 201—Race, Gender and Power
GWS 202—Sexualities
GWS 250—Gender and Representation

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities

GWS graduates have a high rate of acceptance into graduate or professional school, including law, social work, library science, public health and medicine. Other graduates find jobs with a variety of non-profit organizations and community agencies addressing issues such as domestic violence and sexual assault, homelessness, children and family services, public health, and human rights. Still others find more traditional jobs in business or government in areas such as human resources and market analysis.

Common Career Skills

Ability to understand and interact with diverse populations
Ability to read, summarize, analyze
Ability to generate new knowledge and ideas
Effective writing, speaking, and listening skills
Ability to build and sustain relationships across social and political differences
Critical awareness of past and contemporary movements and events
Ability to digest complex theoretical knowledge, and to translate theory into action

Common Career Titles

Artist/Designer
Attorney
Counselor/Therapist
Digital Media Specialist
Diversity and Inclusion Educator
Documentary Filmmaker
Fundraiser
Health Services Administrator
Journalist
Librarian
Non-Profit Administrator
Peace Corps or Vista Worker
Physician
Professor
Psychologist
Public Relations Specialist
Sexual Health Educator
Social Worker
Teacher
Victim Advocate
Union Organizer
Writer/Editor

Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

Participating in undergraduate research
Enroll in a GWS Internship
Applying for a study abroad experience
Utilizing resources of The Career Center
Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
- Feminist Student Union: The purpose of the GWS RSO is to connect students interested in Gender and Sexuality Studies and create a forum for both social involvement and academic collaboration.
- National Organization for Women Campus Affiliate Group: acts to bring women into the mainstream of American society, exercising all the privileges and responsibilities thereof, in truly equal partnership with men.
- Women of Color: The purpose of Women of Color is to educate, uplift, and unite minority women on the University of Illinois campus and in the greater Champaign-Urbana community.
- PRIDE at the University of Illinois: a student group made for queer women and their allies as a safe place to gather. We informally educate the campus community of cultural, political, and other social issues related to LGBTQ+ folks of all identities.

Further Information

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Gender and Women’s Studies. Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Gender and Women’s Studies. These organizations include National Women’s Studies Association and Association for Gender Research, Education, Academia and Action.

French

Major Description

French is designed to teach students a considerable degree of competence in the written and spoken language, as well as a familiarity with the literature and culture of France and the French-speaking world. It aims to develop a student’s critical appreciation of texts in French in both literary and cultural contexts. French offers a large selection of courses in different periods and criticism, as well as courses in composition, stylistics, translation, and linguistics.

Further, it encourages interdisciplinary studies in French through courses emphasizing the relation between literature and the other arts and between literature, history and society. Particularly attractive for many students is the opportunity for the historical and critical study of French film. Most courses are conducted in French, and majors are expected to write papers and examinations in the language.

More About French

Degree Requirements

ICT Requirements

Concentrations

Three concentrations are offered through French.

French Commercial Studies

Combines a concentration in French with appropriate courses in business, economics, or marketing.

French Studies

Focuses on courses in literature, language, linguistics, and civilization.

Curriculum Preparatory to the Teaching of French

Focuses on preparing students with professional goals of teaching French. More information about the Degree Requirements.

Courses That Introduce the Major

FR 101—Elementary French I
FR 102—Elementary French II
FR 103—Intermediate French I
FR 104—Intermediate French II

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities

Common Career Skills

Acknowledging value systems
Adapting to other cultures
Articulate and apply grammatical and syntactic rules
Assessing needs
Clarifying ideas
Collaborating as part of a team
Communicating between cultures
Comparing translations / interpretations
Compiling/recording data
Determining the needs of others
Develop an awareness of cultural differences and an appreciation of other cultures
Explaining complex concepts
Gathering and evaluating information
Interpret and translate French texts
Interviewing non-judgmentally
Organizing materials/information
Read, write, listen and speak French
Reading for content and structure
Speaking to groups
Understand the customs and traditions of French -speaking communities
Understand the structure of the French language
Understanding cultural diversity
Understanding historical language change
Working with original sources in many fields

Common Career Titles

Advertising Manager
Air Traffic Assistant
Banking Correspondent
Bilingual Educator
Bilingual Officers and Tellers
Civil Service Employee
FBI Agent
Filmmaker
Foreign Correspondent
Foreign Diplomat
Foreign Exchange Trader
Foreign Service Officer
Foreign Service Peacekeeper
Foreign Service Specialist
Foreign Social Worker
Importer/Exporter
Intelligence Researcher
International Conference Planner
International Consultant
International Trade Specialist
Interpreter
Journalist
Lawyer
Librarian
Linguist
Missionary
Multi-Lingual Port Receptionist
Museum Curator
National Security Agent
Negotiator
Teacher
Tour Organizer/Guide
Translator
Travel Agent

Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

Participating in undergraduate research
Applying for a study abroad experience
Utilizing resources of The Career Center
Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO)
Join Pi Delta Phi, The National French Honors Society

Further Information

There are several professional organizations dedicated to French. Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of French. These organizations include American Translators Association, American Associate of Teachers of French, and French Chamber of Commerce.

English

Major Description

English is organized to provide instruction in literature, literary theory and criticism, expository and creative writing, writing studies, education, film, cultural studies, and closely related fields. Students have many choices in planning a field of study, but the program is designed to accommodate students who seek to broaden their familiarity with literature, to intensify their language skills for personal and professional reasons, and to learn more about literature’s relationship to other arts, history, philosophy, psychology, and the modern languages.

More About ABE

Degree Requirements

ICT Requirements

Concentrations

There are three concentrations offered through English.

English Concentration

The English concentration provides a broad base of instruction in literature in English across a range of historical periods and forms. Students in this concentration will study the methods and critical concepts of literary and cultural study, intensify their language and analytical skills, and learn more about the historical development of literature in British, American, and global Anglophone contexts from the medieval period to the present day.

English Teaching Concentration

The English Teaching concentration leads to a professional educator license to teach in Secondary School. Coursework in this concentration is largely similar to that required in the English Concentration, and it is based on that concentration’s formal and historical goals. Students working toward earning a teaching license are guided toward additional coursework focused on language and composition.

Topics in English Concentration

The Topics in English concentration enables students to pursue intensive study in a focused area of inquiry, culminating in a senior capstone project. Based on faculty-wide research strengths, the Topics in English clusters include: 1. Literature & Science (technology, medicine, neuroscience, and the environmental humanities), 2. Media Cultures (manuscript and print culture, visual culture, new media, and performance studies), and 3. Race, Indigeneity, Gender, & Sexuality (RIGS).

Courses That Introduce the Major

ENGL 200—Introduction to the Study of Literature

Students are also encouraged to take other 100- and 200-level ENGL courses of interest, any one of which can serve as a gateway to the major.

Possible Career Opportunities

English prepares students for a variety of different career paths.

Common Career Skills

High proficiency in reading/writing/speaking
Good listening, clarifying, questioning, and responding skills
Ability to conduct/explain research
Ability to make critical observations/decisions
Ability to read analytically
Ability to read for style/ideas
Comprehensive command of grammar and vocabulary
Ability to relate to others with empathy and understanding

Common Career Titles

Actor or Actress
Advertising Account Executive
Archivist
Art Critic
Author
Bibliographer
Book Critic
Bookstore Manager
Campaign Manager
Claims Examiner
Columnist
Commentator
Communications Specialist
Community Relations Specialist
Copy Writer
Corporate Trainer
Critic
Editorial Assistant
Editor
Educator
Fact Checker
Freelance Writer
Fundraiser
Historical Society Specialist
Journalist
Legislative Assistant
Librarian
Media Analyst
Media Specialist
Museum Curator
Paralegal Assistant
Personnel Manager
Playwright
Proofreader
Public Relations Specialist
Publicity Assistant
Publisher
Reporter
Research Assistant
Researcher
Sales Representative
Speech Writer
Teacher
Textbook or Technical Writer
Writer

Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

Participating in undergraduate research
Applying for a study abroad experience
Utilizing resources of the LAS Career Services
Visit the Advising Blog to learn more about events, activities, and opportunities happening in English department.
Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
- English Student Association (ESA)
- English Honors Society, Sigma Tau Delta