

The Romance Languages and Literatures Bachelor of Arts program at University of Michigan offers an in-depth exploration of languages such as French, Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese, along with their literary and cultural contexts. The program integrates language acquisition, literary analysis, history, and cultural studies, equipping students with strong communication, analytical, and research skills. Learners engage in intensive language practice, literary interpretation, and cultural research projects, developing the ability to understand texts, analyze cultural trends, and apply knowledge in professional and academic settings. The program emphasizes linguistic proficiency, literary analysis, and interdisciplinary study, preparing graduates for careers in teaching, translation, publishing, and international relations.
As a four year full time program, it provides a structured progression from foundational language and literature courses to advanced study in multiple Romance languages, literary theory, and cultural analysis. Students strengthen their expertise in language acquisition, literary interpretation, translation, and cultural studies, applying analytical and communication skills to examine texts and societal issues. The program equips graduates to pursue careers in education, translation, research, publishing, or to continue advanced studies in Romance languages, comparative literature, or international cultural studies.
Year 1 - Foundations in Romance Languages and Culture
• Introduction to Romance Languages
• Foundations of Literature in Romance Languages
• Cultural Studies and Society
• Academic Writing and Language Skills
Year 2 - Intermediate Language and Literary Studies
• Intermediate Language Courses (French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese)
• Historical and Cultural Contexts
• Literary Analysis and Interpretation
• Elective Courses in Comparative Literature
Year 3 - Advanced Language and Literary Studies
• Advanced Language Proficiency
• Seminar in Literature of Romance Languages
• Translation and Interpretation
• Research Methods in Language and Culture
Year 4 - Capstone and Independent Research
• Independent Research Project
• Senior Seminar in Romance Languages and Literatures
• Applied Linguistic and Cultural Analysis
• Academic Portfolio and Presentation
Graduates of this program pursue careers in teaching, translation, research, international relations, and publishing where linguistic, analytical, and cultural skills are essential. Many work as language educators, translators, cultural consultants, researchers, or publishing specialists, applying expertise in Romance languages and literatures to professional and academic contexts. Others continue in graduate programs in Romance languages, comparative literature, or international cultural studies. The program’s emphasis on language proficiency, literary analysis, and applied research ensures graduates are prepared to succeed in professional and academic environments.
Students choose this program for its combination of language acquisition, literary study, and cultural analysis, which equips them to communicate effectively, interpret texts, and understand cultural contexts. The curriculum emphasizes linguistic proficiency, research skills, critical thinking, and applied cultural knowledge, preparing learners for careers in education, translation, research, publishing, and international work. Students benefit from faculty mentorship, applied language projects, and cultural research that enhance analytical, linguistic, and research skills. By focusing on Romance languages and literatures, the program ensures graduates are prepared for careers in education, research, translation, and international cultural engagement.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: 734-764-8129
Email: rackadmis@umich.edu
Address: Graduate Admissions Office, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA