Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures
Located in Knight Hall
French • Spanish • German • Latin • Chinese • Greek • Italian • Classical Studies • International Affairs
The Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures builds students' proficiency in the five areas necessary for communication: listening, speaking, reading, writing and cultural competence in French, German, Chinese (Mandarin), Hellenistic Greek, Italian, Latin and Spanish. It also strengthens students' understanding of the literature, history, customs and culture of the peoples who used or are using those languages. Major and minor programs are offered in French, German, Latin and Spanish. The department also has concentrations in Classical Studies and International Affairs.
French
A major in French consists of 32 hours. French majors must pass an exit examination.
Spanish
A major in Spanish consists of 32 hours. Spanish majors must pass an exit examination.
German
A major in German consists of 28 hours. German majors must complete the internationally recognized Zertifikat Deutsch examination with a passing grade (minimum of "ausreichend bestanden").
Latin
A major in Latin consists of at least 24 hours, Majors are encouraged to take courses in related areas, such as ancient history and classical literature. Latin majors must pass an exit examination.
Minors
All minors consist of a minimum of 18 hours.
Concentrations
Classical Studies
A concentration in Classical Studies combines a minor in Latin (18 hours) plus another 21 hours to be taken from selected courses.
International Affairs
The Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures also offers a concentration in International Affairs in conjunction with the departments of History and Political Science.
Computerized Foreign Language Lab
Mercer has a state-of-the-art foreign language lab that has 30 computers offering interactive, multi-media programs that assist students in practicing their language skills.
Departmental Honors
Majors may attain Departmental Honors in French, German, Latin or Spanish by meeting the following requirements: 1) apply for admission to the program by the end of the spring of the junior year; 2) select a director from the department faculty; 3) attain a minimum grade point average of 3.0; 4) attain a 3.75 grade point average in language courses; 5) enroll in FRE, GER, LAT, SPN 490; 6) complete a special project in language, literature, methodology or other approved area; 7) give a departmental honors presentation.
- Classical Literature in Translation
- World Literature in Translation
Clubs and Activities
- Bon Ap' (French Conversation Table)
- Hispanic and Latin American Student Union (HLSU)
- Language Clubs (French, German, Latin, Spanish)
- Mercer International Student Organization (MISO)
- National French Week (Annual Celebration since 1999)
- Phi Sigma Iota, the International Foreign Language Honor Society, recognizes excellence in the study of modern foreign languages, classical languages, linguistics and comparative literature. It is the highest academic honor in the field of foreign languages and seeks to promote international communication and understanding.
Competitions and Awards
- Phi Sigma Iota National Scholarship Competition (Mercer's chapter, Eta Eta, has won 13 national awards since 1990, more than any other chapter.)
- Cervantes Award for excellence in Spanish
- Connie Byrd Award for excellence in French
- Laudes Latinae Award for excellence in Latin
- L.P Irvin Award for overall excellence, generally given to a student who has excelled in more than one foreign language.
Foreign Language Study Abroad Opportunities
Mercer has affiliated programs in Argentina, France, Germany and Spain that allow students to enhance their foreign language skills.
Foreign language faculty often lead trips abroad offering academic credit. Some of their most recent destinations have included Costa Rica, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Morocco and Senegal.
Service-learning Opportunities
Spanish students participate in community projects using their language skills.