Global Languages and Cultures
Placement Exam and Language Proficiency Requirement
Want to learn a language? We highly recommend it. Second language skills are an asset to any degree or major and highly sought after by employers. If you are new to a language, then you would begin with a 101 language class.
If you have taken classes or have experience in a language prior to attending the University of Dayton, then you will be required to complete a placement exam before taking a language class. The purpose of the placement exam is to place you in the right language class based on your current skill level. When you are in a class with others at the same level, you have the best chance to improve your skills and enhance your learning experience. Any questions regarding the placement exam should be directed to Global Languages and Cultures at languages@udayton.edu or 937-229-2449.
Students pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree have a second language proficiency requirement which means they must demonstrate proficiency in a language other than English. Students whose first language is not English can demonstrate second language proficiency by completing program requirements in English and Communication. If you have any questions regarding the Bachelor of Arts second language proficiency requirement, you can contact the College of Arts and Sciences dean’s office at casdean@udayton.edu or 937-229-2611.
Bachelor of Arts degree majors have a second language proficiency requirement which means they must demonstrate proficiency in a language other than English. This requirement reflects the importance the University of Dayton places on intercultural education to prepare our graduates for global citizenship. Students can demonstrate second language proficiency to fulfill the language requirement in one of three ways:
- Demonstrated proficiency at the 201 (intermediate) level of language study through the language placement exam satisfies the degree requirement, although no credit is awarded. The proficiency is determined by a two-part examination process. The first exam, Phase I, consists of reading and multiple choice questions. Depending on the language of testing, the second exam, Phase II, involves listening/speaking or reading/writing/speaking. The language placement exams are conducted through the Department of Global Languages and Cultures. (Demonstrated proficiency at the 201 level is the equivalent to completion of 201.)
- Demonstrated proficiency at the 141 (basic proficiency) level of language study through the language placement exam (no credit is awarded) and completion of one of the following four options matching the language course of study: a 201 language level course, an approved study abroad/intercultural experience, an approved service learning experience or an approved contextual course taught in English. Proficiency at the 141 level is determined by the language placement exam conducted through the Department of Global Languages and Cultures. (Demonstrated proficiency at the 141 level is the equivalent to completion of 141.)
- Demonstrated proficiency by completion of a language course at the 141 (basic proficiency) level, along with any necessary prerequisite course, and completion of one of the following four options matching the language course of study: a 201 language level course, an approved study abroad/intercultural experience, an approved service learning experience or an approved contextual course taught in English.
Students whose first language is not English demonstrate second language proficiency by satisfying the University Common Academic Program requirements in composition and oral communication. Students whose first language is not English are not permitted to complete courses in their primary language except by permission of the Chair of the Department of Global Languages and Cultures.