USC requires applicants to have completed at least two years of study in the same foreign language in high school or college.
Detailed response to the request
The University of Southern California (USC) has specific requirements for foreign language study for its applicants. To be eligible, students must have completed at least two years of study in the same foreign language during their high school or college years. This language requirement reflects USC’s commitment to fostering global competency and cultural understanding among its students.
Foreign language study offers numerous benefits, both academic and personal. As Nelson Mandela said, “If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart.” Learning a foreign language not only enhances communication but also broadens one’s perspectives by gaining insights into different cultures, traditions, and ways of thinking.
Here are some interesting facts about learning a foreign language:
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Cognitive Benefits: Studying a foreign language has been shown to improve memory, critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and creativity. It enhances overall cognitive abilities and contributes to better academic performance in various subjects.
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Increased Cultural Awareness: Learning a foreign language provides a deeper understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures and traditions. It allows individuals to engage with people from different backgrounds, fostering inclusivity and global citizenship.
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Improved Job Prospects: In an increasingly interconnected world, proficiency in a foreign language is a valuable asset in various professional fields. It can open doors to international job opportunities, enhance employability, and increase earning potential.
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Boosted Brain Health: Research suggests that bilingual or multilingual individuals have better cognitive functions, delaying the onset of age-related mental decline and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
To provide a visual representation of the language requirement, here’s a table showcasing the language study criteria for USC admissions:
| Language Study Requirement for USC Admissions |
|---|
| Minimum Years of Study |
| Language Continuity Required |
| Required Level of Proficiency |
Remember, while meeting the minimum language requirement is important for USC admissions, it’s always beneficial to go beyond that and further explore the language and culture to gain a more comprehensive understanding. As Mark Twain wisely stated, “To learn a language is to have one more window from which to look at the world.” So, embrace the opportunity to expand your linguistic horizons during your educational journey!
Other approaches of answering your query
Without the language requirement already fulfilled, students must earn a passing grade for three foreign language courses, stripping them of the opportunity to explore three other courses of their choosing and paying over $30,000 to satisfy this stipulation in their degree.
Minimum Foreign Language Eligibility Requirement for Entering a Four-Year College (UC and CSU): Two years required, three years recommended, of the same language with a grade of “C” or higher.
The simplest answer is that the majority of colleges expect a student to have a minimum of two years of foreign language when applying to college.
Foreign language study is required even of those students who are native speakers of a language other than English, or who have completed two years of secondary school in a language other than English.
See the answer to your question in this video
In the YouTube video “Why Study Persian? USC Students Explain,” USC students discuss their reasons for choosing to study Persian. They emphasize the importance of dispelling misconceptions about the Middle East and connecting with its rich culture. The students highlight the significance of learning about literature, art, and history in addition to the language itself. USC’s program focuses on conversation and cultural immersion, pairing students with native speakers to enhance their language proficiency. The strong Persian community at USC offers a unique opportunity for students to engage with the language and culture, making the study of Persian a diverse and enriching experience beyond fulfilling a language requirement.