Why Learning a Language in College Is Worth It

January 16, 2026

Student using American Sign Language to communicate a signed phrase.

Learning a language in college can help you do more than earn credits. It can help you communicate with more people, understand different cultures and build skills that support your future career.

At �Թ��, students can take courses in , American Sign Language (ASL), , , , and .

You don’t have to be fluent to benefit from a language class. Even beginner courses can help you practice listening, speaking, problem-solving and cultural awareness. Those skills can help in school, at work and in everyday life.

Why Learn a Language in College?

Language Skills Matter at Work

Source: American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages

Language skills can support many career paths. Employers need people who can communicate with customers, patients, students, coworkers and community members from different backgrounds.

That can matter in fields such as health care, education, business, social services, technology, law enforcement, hospitality and government. Spanish is often in high demand across the United States, but other languages can also support careers connected to global business, travel, diplomacy, education and community work.

Language learning also helps students build patience and confidence. It takes practice to listen closely, try new words and keep going after mistakes. That process can make students stronger communicators in any language.

Compare Language Courses at �Թ��

�Թ�� offers several language options, so students can choose a course that matches their interests, degree goals or career plans.

Language	Good Fit For Students Interested In	Course Link
Arabic	Global studies, culture, business, government, diplomacy or international work.
American Sign Language	Deaf culture, communication, education, interpreting, health care or community services.	View ASL program
Chinese	Global business, culture, travel, international relations or technology fields.
French	Travel, culture, international studies, education, art, literature or global careers.
German	Engineering, business, music, history, travel or European studies.
Japanese	Culture, technology, business, travel, media, art or international communication.
Spanish	Health care, education, business, social services, public safety, travel or community work.

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Build Career Skills Employers Value

Learning a language can make your resume stronger, but the benefits go beyond listing a skill. Language classes help students practice communication, listening, flexibility and cultural awareness.

Those skills matter in many workplaces. A nurse may need to communicate clearly with patients. A teacher may work with families from many backgrounds. A business employee may help clients or coworkers across different cultures. A public service worker may need to build trust with the community.

Language study can also help students stand out when applying for jobs, internships, transfer programs or scholarships. It shows that you’re willing to learn, practice and connect with people in new ways.

Strengthen Your Brain and Study Habits

Language Learning Builds More Than Vocabulary

The American Academy of Arts and Sciences notes that language learning can support .

Source: American Academy of Arts and Sciences

Studying a language gives your brain steady practice. You learn patterns, sounds, grammar, memory skills and new ways to express ideas. That kind of practice can help students become more focused and flexible learners.

Language classes can also build stronger study habits. Students learn to practice a little at a time, review often and keep going even when something feels unfamiliar. Those habits can help in other college courses too.

Many students also notice that learning another language makes them think more carefully about English. You may become more aware of word choice, sentence structure, tone and meaning.

Learn About Culture Through Language

Language and culture are connected. When you study a language, you also learn about the people, history, traditions, art, music, food and stories connected to it.

That can make your college experience richer. You may study films, songs, conversations, traditions or current events from different parts of the world. You may also learn more about communities here in St. Louis.

Culture matters in real life too. Understanding different perspectives can help you communicate with respect, adapt to new situations and work better with others.

Travel and Connect With More Confidence

Language skills can make travel feel more meaningful. Even simple phrases can help you order food, ask for directions, greet someone or understand signs and menus.

You don’t have to travel far to use what you learn. Language skills can help you connect with people in your workplace, neighborhood, classroom or community. They can also help you better understand music, films, books, news and media from around the world.

Save Money While Earning Transferable Credits

Language courses at �Թ�� are an affordable way to earn college credit. Depending on your degree or transfer plan, they may count toward general education, humanities or elective requirements.

If you plan to transfer to a four-year college or university, taking language courses at �Թ�� may help you save money while making progress toward your degree. An academic, career and transfer advisor can help you choose courses that fit your goals.

Frequently Asked Questions About Language Classes at �Թ��

Do language courses count toward my degree?
They may. Language classes often count toward general education, humanities or elective requirements, depending on your program. Talk with an academic, career and transfer advisor to see how they fit your plan.

How long does it take to learn a language in college?
It depends on your goals. One semester can help you learn basic phrases, grammar and cultural knowledge. Continuing through multiple semesters can help you build stronger reading, writing, listening and speaking skills.

Are language classes hard?
Language learning takes practice, but beginner courses are designed for students who are new to the language. You’ll build skills step by step.

Can I take a language class if I’m returning to school?
Yes. Students of many ages and backgrounds take language classes. Life experience, motivation and curiosity can be real strengths in the classroom.

Start Learning a Language at �Թ��

Language learning can help you build career skills, connect with more people and see the world in a new way. Whether you want to support your degree, prepare for transfer, strengthen your resume or try something new, �Թ�� has options to help you get started.