B.A. in Foreign Language & Cultures

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Application Fee: $50

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 73 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 49 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall score of 100.

Western Illinois University (WIU) offers several scholarships to international students to assist them in financing their education. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, talents, leadership, and other criteria. 

Presidential Scholarships: These scholarships are among the most prestigious at WIU and are awarded to academically exceptional students. They cover a significant portion of tuition costs and are renewable for up to eight semesters.

International Commitment Scholarships: WIU offers a range of international commitment scholarships to incoming international undergraduate students. These scholarships are based on academic merit and are available at varying levels of funding.

International Transfer Scholarships: Transfer students from international institutions can apply for transfer scholarships to help fund their education at WIU. The scholarship amounts may vary based on academic achievement.

Global Excellence Scholarships: These scholarships are designed to recognize and support outstanding international students. They are awarded based on academic performance, leadership, and community involvement.

International Peace Scholarship: WIU offers this scholarship to female international students who have a strong commitment to international understanding and peace. It's part of the P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship Fund.

College and Departmental Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within WIU offer scholarships to international students pursuing specific fields of study. Eligibility criteria and award amounts may vary by department.

Foundation Scholarships: WIU's Foundation administers a wide range of scholarships, some of which are available to international students. These scholarships are often based on specific majors or criteria defined by donors.

External Scholarships: International students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities, both in their home countries and through international organizations, to help finance their education at WIU.

Fulbright Scholar Program: While not directly administered by WIU, international students can apply for the prestigious Fulbright Scholar Program, which provides funding for academic and cultural exchange opportunities in the United States.

To apply for scholarships at WIU, international students typically need to submit an application for admission and a separate scholarship application, if required. Deadlines and eligibility criteria can vary.

Graduates with a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Foreign Language & Cultures from Western Illinois University (WIU) in Macomb are well-prepared for a diverse range of careers that leverage their language proficiency and cultural expertise. This degree opens doors to various professional opportunities in global and domestic contexts. 

Translator/Interpreter: Graduates can work as translators or interpreters, converting written or spoken content from one language to another. This role is essential in various settings, including legal, medical, and business environments, where clear communication across languages is critical.

International Business Specialist: With advanced language skills and cultural knowledge, graduates can pursue careers in international business. They may work in roles such as international sales, marketing, or customer relations, helping companies expand into global markets and navigate cross-cultural interactions.

Cultural Advisor: Cultural advisors provide guidance on cultural norms and practices to organizations and individuals engaged in international projects. They help ensure that business strategies and communications are culturally appropriate and effective.

Foreign Service Officer: Graduates interested in diplomacy and international relations may pursue careers as foreign service officers. This role involves representing a country’s interests abroad, engaging in diplomatic negotiations, and managing consular affairs.

Language Educator: Graduates can become language educators, teaching foreign languages at various levels, from elementary schools to universities. They may also work as private tutors or in language schools, helping students achieve language proficiency.

International Development Specialist: In this role, graduates work with non-profit organizations or government agencies to implement development programs in foreign countries. They use their language skills and cultural insights to manage projects, communicate with local communities, and address global challenges.

Tourism and Hospitality Professional: Graduates can work in the tourism and hospitality industry, where their language skills enhance the travel experience for international tourists. Roles may include travel consultants, tour guides, and hotel management positions.

Cultural Program Coordinator: Cultural program coordinators organize and manage events, workshops, and programs that promote cultural exchange and understanding. They work with institutions such as museums, cultural centers, and educational organizations to facilitate cultural activities.

Graduate Studies: For those interested in further specialization, the B.A. in Foreign Language & Cultures provides a strong foundation for graduate studies in areas such as international relations, global studies, or linguistics.