Language Requirement
All students must achieve intermediate-level (or higher) proficiency in a modern language other than English. Students may demonstrate this proficiency either by passing an intermediate-level proficiency exam or by completing a fourth-semester standard language course (202 or equivalent) with a grade of C or better.
Students choosing a European Concentration, with an emphasis in France, Iberia, or Central/Eastern Europe must demonstrate advanced proficiency (ACTFL scale definition) in the language of the respective culture (French, Spanish, German or other appropriate language), either by passing an advanced-level proficiency exam or by successfully completing a third-year standard language course sequence (SSU: 301 and 302) with a grade of “C” or higher.
In exceptional cases, students wishing to demonstrate equivalent proficiency shall secure certification of equivalency from qualified faculty in SSU's Department of Modern Languages and Literatures, or from the MLL Department Chair's designee, and present it to the Global Studies Coordinator.
For Global Studies purposes, proficiency in listening and speaking takes precedence over reading/writing/translating proficiency. Equivalency exams shall therefore include an oral interview as well as a test of reading and writing skills. Students may be required to remit a fee for this exam.
Formal demonstration of second-language proficiency shall be waived for students who have completed their secondary education at a school whose language of instruction is other than English.