Top 10 Reasons to Study a Foreign Language in College

January 16, 2026

Posted by School of Communication, Design and Creative Arts in Programs and Pathways

Student using American Sign Language to communicate a signed phrase.

Learning a foreign language in college is one of the smartest investments you can make in your future. It gives you real career advantages, strengthens your brain and helps you connect with people in meaningful ways. If you're a recent high school graduate or returning to school later in life, studying a foreign language opens doors you never imagined.

�Թ�� offers classes in , American Sign Language (ASL), , , , and . Our affordable foreign language courses fit into busy schedules and help you build skills that last a lifetime. Here are ten great reasons to learn a new language at �Թ��.

1. Boost Your Career Prospects

Employers value workers who can talk to people from different cultures. Speaking more than one language opens doors in business, health care, education, technology, law enforcement and government. Workers who speak two languages can reach more people and build stronger relationships.

In St. Louis and across the U.S., Spanish speakers are in high demand. A recent report shows that , more than any other foreign language. Arabic, Chinese and Japanese are also highly valued in global trade and diplomacy. Adding language skills to your resume makes you stand out in competitive job markets and can lead to higher salaries and more opportunities.

2. Sharpen Your Memory and Cognitive Skills

Learning a language is great exercise for your brain. When you study a foreign language, you train your brain to recognize patterns, think creatively and switch between tasks more easily. Research shows that language learners often have better memory, stronger focus and better problem-solving skills.

It's a workout for your brain that benefits every subject you study. Students who take language classes often see improvements in their other courses too. These skills carry over into daily life, helping you stay organized and think more clearly under pressure.

3. Deepen Your Cultural Understanding

Language shows how people think and live. Learning a new language introduces you to new ways of seeing the world through art, traditions, food and everyday conversation.

�Թ�� language instructors bring culture to life through film, music, literature and classroom discussions. You might celebrate Japanese festivals, study French films or explore Arabic poetry. These experiences make you more well-rounded and help you appreciate the diversity in your own community.

4. Become a Better Communicator

Speaking another language gives you a new voice. You learn to listen more carefully, think before speaking and express your ideas clearly. You also become more aware of how language shapes meaning.

Many students say that studying another language helps them communicate better in English too. You'll notice improvements in your writing, speaking and listening skills. And there's real satisfaction in having your first conversation or reading your first paragraph in a new language.

5. Travel with Confidence

Knowing a language changes travel from just sightseeing to true exploration. Ordering food in Spanish, greeting people in Japanese or asking directions in French lets you experience a place like a local. You connect more easily and feel more confident and independent.

Even if you stay close to home, language study helps you talk with different communities right here in St. Louis. Our city has Spanish-speaking neighborhoods, growing Asian communities and Deaf communities where ASL is important. Learning a language helps you feel more connected wherever you go.

6. Develop Empathy and Cultural Awareness

Learning another language helps you understand perspectives that are different from your own. You learn to see situations through another lens and understand how language reflects values, humor and traditions.

This kind of empathy is important in today's world. It helps you work well with others, adapt to new places and respect differences. Whether you're working in health care, education or customer service, cultural awareness makes you better at your job.

7. Meet New People and Build Community

Language classes create a strong sense of community. You'll practice with classmates, laugh at mistakes and celebrate progress together. Many students make lifelong friends through shared learning and cultural experiences.

At �Թ��, our language courses bring together students of all ages and backgrounds. You may even connect with native speakers in your own community and find new opportunities for friendship. Language learning is social, fun and rewarding.

8. Save Time and Money on Your Degree

Language courses at �Թ�� are an affordable way to earn credits that often count toward general education or humanities requirements. If you plan to transfer to a four-year college, taking your language classes at �Թ�� can save money and help you stay on track for graduation.

Our foreign language courses transfer easily to colleges and universities in Missouri and beyond. An �Թ�� student success advisor can help you choose the right courses to fit your goals.

9. Gain Practical, Lifelong Skills

Language study teaches you to stick with something and work hard. You learn to set goals, practice regularly and solve problems creatively. These skills help in any career.

Once you've learned the basics of one language, picking up another language often becomes easier. The study habits and confidence you build in language classes help you in every area of life.

10. See the World in a New Way

Every language opens a new window on the world. You begin to notice how words shape thoughts and how culture affects communication. The more you learn, the more you understand how connected people are across borders and backgrounds.

Language learning reminds you that the world is both vast and shared, filled with voices worth listening to. It changes the way you think, the way you connect with others and the way you see your place in the world.

Frequently Asked Questions About Language Classes at �Թ��

What languages can I study at �Թ��?
�Թ�� offers seven languages: Arabic, ASL, Chinese, French, German, Japanese and Spanish. Classes are available at multiple campuses and in various formats to fit your schedule.

Do foreign language courses count toward my degree?
Yes! Language classes often fulfill general education or humanities requirements. They also transfer to four-year universities if you plan to continue your education. Talk to an academic success advisor to see how language courses fit into your degree plan.

How long does it take to learn a language in college?
Yes! Language classes often count toward general education or humanities requirements. They also transfer to four-year colleges if you plan to continue your education. Talk to an academic success advisor to see how language courses fit into your degree plan.

Are language classes hard?
Language learning takes practice, but our classes are designed for beginners. You don't need any previous experience. With regular attendance, homework and a willingness to try, you'll be amazed at how much you can learn in just one semester.

Can I learn a language if I'm older or returning to school?
Absolutely! Students of all ages succeed in language classes. In fact, adult learners often bring life experience and motivation that help them excel. Our classes welcome all students.