Learn a New Language

The Modern Languages Department at San Bernardino Valley College offers American Sign Language, Arabic, French and Spanish.

The ever-increasing role that the United States takes in global affairs, international trade, and the growing numbers of immigrants dictate the need for knowledge of a modern language. The primary objective of the Modern Languages Department is communication at an acceptably correct  and comprehensible level with an understanding of culture. 


Teaching methods incorporate critical thinking activities and include the direct approach, lectures and language laboratory assignments. Courses are offered in American Sign Language, Arabic, French, and Spanish.

Students planning to transfer to a four-year institution and major in a modern language should consult with a counselor regarding the transfer process and lower division requirements. Positions for which four-year graduates in modern languages are qualified are teaching, business, foreign services, law enforcement, nursing, hospitality services, and secretarial services.