Frequently Asked Questions
Current Students
How do I declare a major or minor in a world language?
The first step in declaring a major or minor in a world language is to speak with a language advisor who can be found on our Advisors page. An advisor will give you the necessary paperwork and a roadmap of required classes.
Can I take a world language class even though I am not majoring or minoring in a language?
Yes, you can take any foreign language class you like, provided you have the necessary skill level. If in doubt, you can consult an advisor and take a placement test. Students are able to waive the unit cap under certain circumstances. Please contact the advisor for more information on this.
How do I add / change my world language major / minor?
Please contact your advisor and refer to the Office of the Registrar for change of major/minor process.
How do I speak with an advisor?
A list of advisors can be found on our Advisors page or in our department office at Clark Hall 421. You can either drop into their office hours or e-mail them to set up an appointment to meet.
Where can I find my professor’s office hours?
A list of faculty office hours can be found on our Faculty and Staff page or in our department office at Clark Hall 421.
Office hours can also be found on the class syllabus, canvas and faculty pages.
When and how am I getting my scholarship award money?
Scholarships recipients info are sent to the Financial Aid office. They will apply it to any outstanding university debts you have and they will reimburse or give you back whatever is left. If you haven’t received your scholarship award, check with the Financial Aid office.
How many units and classes are required for a language minor? Do I still have to take the same number of classes even though I got some classes waived?
You can find general information for the program you are interested on our website under the "Programs" tab. Specific questions about your situation are best answered by the appropriate major or minor advisor. You can find advisors for every program on our Advisors page.
Is there any tutoring available for the foreign languages?
Yes, there are currently tutoring sessions available through Peer Connections. If you have any questions regarding tutoring, please contact http://peerconnections.sjsu.edu/tutoring/.
If you are a language major, are you required to study abroad?
No, but we encourage you to do so — studying abroad is a rewarding experience that will improve your language skills immensely and give you new insights into the world around you.
Prospective Students
What languages are taught at SJSU?
- Chinese
- Filipino/Tagalog
- French
- German
- Hebrew
- Italian
- Japanese
- Portuguese
- Spanish
- Vietnamese
Students can currently earn:
- B.A. degrees in Chinese, French, Japanese, and Spanish
- Minor degrees in Chinese, French, Japanese, Latin American Studies, Portuguese, and Spanish
- Minors for International Business
See our Programs page for more information.
I am thinking of getting a Master’s in Spanish. Where can I get more information?
For more information about the MA program, please contact the Spanish MA advisor, Dr. Damian Bacich.
Damian Bacich
Ph.D., UCLA
Professor; Department Chair; Spanish Advisor
408-924-4608
damian.bacich@sjsu.edu
Clark Hall 421D
I have questions regarding the teaching credential, where do I start?
The coordinator and advisor for the single subject credential in a world language is Zoey Liu. She can be reached via e-mail at zoey.liu@sjsu.edu or in her office CL 408P, contact number is (408)924-4628.
What is a placement test and how can I request it?
A placement test can be taken in Chinese, French, German, Japanese, and Spanish. These tests are used to assist advisors in determining what level course students should enroll in at their ability level.
Complete the WLL Check in Form to request to take the language placement
