Academic Catalogs

World Language, Associate in Arts Degree

Banner Code: 2_AA_WLANG

Control Number: 18425

Financial Aid Eligible


The Associate of Arts in World Language Degree develops student’s critical thinking, analytical, and communicative skills while providing a basis for understanding cultures and languages, thus preparing graduates for many careers in a multicultural world where communication is vital in our growing global interdependence and technological connectivity. Students enrolled in the program prepare for transfer education and/or careers in areas including but not limited to: education, health care, public safety, law, business, international business, diplomatic services, international relations, anthropology, economics, political science, sociology, literature, linguistics, interpreting, translation, teaching, research, public relations, international commerce, tourism, hospitality, journalism, publishing, media, advertising, broadcasting, film, and consulting. The Associate of Arts in World Language degree offers world language courses from beginning to advanced level. Students can select the language combination they wish to study. All courses are designed to develop the students' listening comprehension, speaking, reading, and / or writing as well as to provide a general overview of various civilizations and cultures related to world languages.

Program Level Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:

  1. Interpret spoken messages in the studied language at beginning to advanced levels.
  2. Use language grammar and vocabulary to communicate orally at beginning to advanced levels. 
  3. Derive meaning of written language at beginning to advanced levels. 
  4. Compose written language at beginning to advanced levels.

Review Graduation Requirements and General Education.

Course Title Units
Required Courses18-20
Option 1
SPAN G160Spanish for Spanish Speakers 15
SPAN G165Spanish for Spanish Speakers 25
SPAN G180Elementary Spanish 15
SPAN G185Elementary Spanish 25
SPAN G280Intermediate Spanish 14
SPAN G285Intermediate Spanish 24
Option 2
VIET G180Elementary Vietnamese 15
VIET G185Elementary Vietnamese 25
VIET G280Intermediate Vietnamese 14
VIET G285Intermediate Vietnamese 24
Major Total18-20
GE Pattern (Local, CSU GE-Breadth, or IGETC)18-39
Total Units60

Recommended Program Sequence

These sequences are general course maps for students to finish all major and general education requirements for two-year completion of degrees, completion of short-term certificates, and/or fulfillment of transfer requirements. However, this may not be an appropriate path for all students.  The two-year sequence is based on English and Math placement and meeting other course prerequisites. Students are advised to meet with a GWC Counselor to review course selections and sequences to ensure that completion of this program will meet a student's transfer and career goals.

Students intending to complete this degree need to complete a  4-semester sequence in one language.

Year 1: 

Course Title Units
Semester 1
ENGL G100Freshman Composition ^4
Area E: Lifelong Understanding and Self-Development or any additional course from Area A-D3
Select one of the following: 5-7
SPAN G180Elementary Spanish 15
VIET G180Elementary Vietnamese 15
SIGN G180
SIGN G200
American Sign Language 1
and Deaf Culture
7
Units12-14
Course Title Units
Semester 2
Area C: Arts & Humanities course3
Elective coursework for a total of 3 units3
Math Competency3
If Mathematics is satisfied by competency, select Area A2: Communication and Analytical Thinking course
Select one of the following:4-5
SPAN G185Elementary Spanish 25
SIGN G185American Sign Language 24
VIET G185Elementary Vietnamese 25
Units13-16

Year 2:

Course Title Units
Semester 3
Area B: Natural Sciences course3
Area D: Social & Behavioral Sciences course3
Elective coursework for a total of 6 units6
Select one of the following:4
SPAN G280Intermediate Spanish 14
VIET G280Intermediate Vietnamese 14
SIGN G280American Sign Language 34
Units16
Course Title Units
Semester 4
Elective coursework to reach a minimum of 60 units10-15
Select one of the following:4
SPAN G285Intermediate Spanish 24
VIET G285Intermediate Vietnamese 24
SIGN G285American Sign Language 44
Units14-19
Total Degree Units60
^

Program sequence may not be recommended for students who self-place into ENGL G100S. Students should see a Counselor for appropriate advisement.