The School of Modern Languages offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Languages and Intercultural Studies (ALIS) with separate language concentrations in Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Korean, Russian, and Spanish. Our degree recognizes that in our globalized world, it is no longer enough to learn a new language if it is not accompanied with applicable skills for emerging industries, real-world problem-solving, and sustainable development. By coupling advanced language skills with intercultural competence, ALIS majors are positioned to work in a variety of fields across global industries. Consult the Catalog for the ALIS Degree Requirements or download the ALIS Degree Checklist for more information.
Language List
Blurb / Gallery Set
Why a B.S. in ALIS at Georgia Tech?
More Than a Language
The B.S. in Applied Languages and Intercultural Studies (ALIS) takes an applied, interdisciplinary approach to the study of language and culture. The program emphasizes real-world challenges, practical applications, and intercultural competence. Advanced coursework covers topics such as film and media, sustainability, business and technology, popular culture, and linguistics. The flexibility of the ALIS degree supports a wide range of career paths.
- The 18-credit "breadth" requirement encourages students to broaden their education by exploring diverse fields and perspectives in the social sciences, arts, or a second language.
- The 21-credit "depth" requirement helps students move beyond surface-level understanding to develop deeper knowledge of language and culture. Students gain cross-cultural communication skills essential for navigating cultural differences and contributing to a global workforce.
- Free electives allow students to tailor their degree to their interests and career goals. Options include coursework in business, the sciences, engineering, and even pre-med or pre-law tracks.
Commitment to Sustainability
Globalization today entails more than faster communication and innovation; it has influenced climate policies, revolutionized culture, and permeated across industries, disciplines, and daily life. In order to tackle some of the world's most pressing sustainability issues, it is necessary to understand them as inherently tied to globalization.
- Gain intercultural knowledge and interdisciplinary skills which are key to appropriately prepare, act, and respond to global issues.
- Participate in sustainability-focused coursework, events, and opportunities, our program is equipping students with the tools required to engage with environmental, social, and economic “wicked problems" in their careers. Many of these programs are affiliated with Georgia Tech's Serve, Learn and Sustain program.
Language, Business and Technology (LBAT)
Beyond multiple study abroad and exchange programs available to our students, our school is proud to offer a more specialized and immersive international education through the Language, Business, and Technology (LBAT) program.
- Dive into the culture of your language of focus while gaining site-specific knowledge on diplomacy, sustainability, business, and/or development.
- Gain distinctive and localized perspectives and awareness that can be later applied to a variety of careers - the LBAT is designed with an overarching theme that is responsive to real-world issues.
- Apply LBAT credits towards ALIS and the International Plan. For more information visit the LBAT program page.