In a world in which countries are becoming more and more interdependent economically and socially, the study of foreign languages is essential for all students, not just college-bound students. In our present-day society, knowledge of a foreign language is an adjunct skill which can be an advantage in finding employment. A foreign language increases the awareness of one's own culture and makes one more knowledgeable of and sympathetic to the different heritages of people in our own country and in the international community. It also permits informal communication and facilitates the exchange of ideas and information.

Proficiency in communication is developed through listening, speaking, reading and writing activities at all levels of Spanish, French and Italian. A minimum of five years of study is required for students to acquire an effective command of all of these skills. In the initial phase, oral/aural communication is stressed over written communication. On the intermediate and advanced levels, all skills are given equal emphasis.