Advising

We're here to help you plan your foreign language studies at NIU. We can assist you with:

  • Getting placed into the correct foreign language class.
  • Declaring a major or minor in world languages and cultures.
  • Planning a path for educator licensure or graduate study.

Expect to meet with an adviser in our department at least once a semester. They'll help you set your class schedule and monitor your progress toward graduation.

Placement Guidelines

If you're an incoming freshman who has previously studied a foreign language, you're expected to take a placement exam in that language. Visit Testing Services to learn more about the exam for Spanish. For other languages, contact Professor Jessamine Cooke-Plagwitz at jpcooke@niu.edu.

We give credit for AP exams and the Seal of Biliteracy. Learn more about high school credits.

Declaring a Major or Minor

To declare a major or minor in world languages and cultures, contact Professor Jessamine Cooke-Plagwitz, director of undergraduate studies, at 815-753-6448 or jpcooke@niu.edu.

Educator Licensure Advising

For guidance with educator licensure, contact Professor Nancy Dominguez-Fret, director of teacher licensure, at 815-753-6443 or ndominguezfret@niu.edu

Graduate Advising

For guidance with graduate studies, contact Professor Shannon Becker, director of graduate studies, at 815-753-1456 or sbecker@niu.edu.

Contact Us

World Languages and Cultures
Watson Hall 111
815-753-1501
askfl@niu.edu