Language Studies Overview
Learn languages by living them
Language learning is more than memorizing vocabulary. It is about connecting with people, navigating different cultures and seeing the world from new perspectives. At UB, Romance Languages and Literatures (RLL) students build fluency through conversation, cultural exploration, study abroad and real-world experiences that extend far beyond the classroom.
Why students choose RLL
Students across UB combine language study with majors in business, engineering, health sciences, education, media and more. Learning another language strengthens communication, cultural awareness and adaptability, skills that matter in almost every field.
Studying languages helps you understand how people communicate, create meaning and connect across cultures. It also builds practical skills employers value, including communication, adaptability, critical thinking and global awareness.
Students study languages at UB to:
- prepare for international careers and graduate study
- strengthen communication skills across cultures
- connect language study with fields like business, law, health care, education and the arts
- explore literature, film, media and cultural history
- participate in study abroad, internships and community-based learning
At UB, students learn in small, discussion-based classes with faculty mentors who bring global expertise into the classroom.
Each language opens the door to different histories, cultures and global communities. Some students focus deeply on one language, while others study multiple Romance languages to better understand how language, culture and identity connect across regions and traditions.
Culture, diplomacy and global communication.
Explore language and culture across Europe, Africa, North America and beyond.
Art, design and cultural history.
Study the language behind architecture, cinema, fashion and global creativity.
Community, communication and connection.
Build language skills used across the United States and around the world.
Studied French, Italian or Spanish before? The language placement exam helps you start at the right course level. > Find your course level
A global language with growing influence.
Connect with cultures across Brazil, Portugal, Africa and beyond.
Language and community across the Caribbean.
Study language while exploring migration, identity and cultural resilience.
Mediterranean culture and regional identity.
Discover a unique language tradition shaped by history, politics and creativity.
Language learning becomes more meaningful when you use it in real settings. RLL students can study abroad, participate in internships, work in bilingual classrooms and engage in research that connects language study to communities around the world.
Experiential opportunities may include:
- study abroad programs in Spain, France and Italy
- community-based learning and tutoring
- translation and interpretation experiences
- faculty-led research projects
- internships connected to language and culture
Whether you want to study abroad, work internationally or better understand the world around you, learning another language can expand how you think, communicate and connect.