Department of Languages, Literatures & Cultures

At Towson University, you will study the languages, literatures, and cultures of a range of people and communities while developing your oracy, literacy, signacy, and interpersonal/intrapersonal communication skills.   

The Department of Languages, Literatures & Cultures believes in the power of languages. We believe that language learning promotes the understanding, appreciation, and inclusion of diversity, and that language has the power to bridge cultural differences, resolve conflicts, and lead to reconciliation.  

Our curriculum prepares you for the linguistic and cultural acquisition that will serve you well throughout your life — from career-related language and cultural skills to preparing for teaching or graduate study to linguistic enrichment. In-person courses, study abroad immersion, practicums, internships, and independent study opportunities reinforce the acquisition of new knowledge and civic engagement preparing you for the development of critical analysis, problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication and cultural competence necessary in the 21st century workplace.   

Our goal is to foster inclusive and equitable working, teaching, and learning environments that value students, staff, and faculty from any background, culture, orientation, and ability. In the department and in the classroom, we actively promote and protect respectful and inclusive dialogue, and support equitable access to resources for all. We are committed to offering courses and extracurricular activities that explore critical issues of difference, intersectionality, and identity. We seek to include and advocate for underrepresented and undervalued languages and cultures

Placement test

Planning to enroll in a language class?

The department offers placement testing for students planning to enroll in a language course who do not already have college credit for the language. All students planning to enroll in an American Sign Language (ASL) course above the ASL I level must take the ASL screening.