Foreign Languages

Learn a language…get the edge in business
In today’s global marketplace, foreign language proficiency and intercultural skills are increasingly in demand. Reflecting the college's emphasis on globalization and on the understanding of other cultures, the Department of Foreign Languages infuses rich cultural diversity into its courses. The department teaches languages that are particularly relevant to FIT’s majors. Classes in French, Italian, Japanese, and Spanish range from introductory to advanced. Basic courses in Chinese language and conversation are also offered. In our state-of-the-art Foreign Language Multimedia Learning Center students reinforce their language skills and engage in virtual exploration of the countries and cultures where the languages they are studying are spoken.

Specialized courses, such as Italian for Business and Spanish for Business, give you an edge in global commerce. Spanish for Spanish Speakers enhances the bilingual student's ability to compete in the job market.

You’ll also have the opportunity to improve your language skills through the department’s total immersion study abroad courses:

• French in Paris
• Italian in Florence
• Italian Conversation I in Florence
• Spanish in Santiago de Compostela, Spain
• Spanish Conversation I in Puerto Rico

The department also presents foreign language and cultural events for the enjoyment of the FIT community. At the popular Foreign Language Poetry Recitation Competition, which has been held each fall for the last 20 years, students perform before an enthusiastic audience. In the Spring semester the department sponsors multi-cultural events. These events range from presentations on the work of foreign fashion designers and celebrations of the lives of cultural luminaries to performances of music from the cultures our students are studying.

See your advisor regarding foreign language requirements for your major.