The Best Languages To Learn In College

More than half of college students choose Spanish as their foreign language. The most common language in the U.S. after English, Spanish also offers some of the easiest study methods. For example, learners can visit Mexico or listen to Spanish-language radio stations.

Around the world, nearly half a billion people speak Spanish as their native language –– including 43 million people in the U.S. Many Americans are surrounded by Spanish words and phrases, making it one of the easiest languages to learn. Plus, Spanish uses Romance language grammar, helping learners who have studied French or Italian.

Mandarin Chinese counts more native speakers than any other language in the world. In fact, over a billion people speak Mandarin as their native language. In the U.S., nearly three million people speak Mandarin and other Chinese languages.

Mandarin ranks among the hardest languages for English speakers to master. In addition to its character-based writing system, spoken Mandarin uses tonality that many English speakers struggle to learn. Take the word ma. Depending on pronunciation, it might mean "mother" or "horse" –– not something language learners want to mix up. However, those who learn Mandarin can increase their career opportunities enormously.

Linguists classify English as a Germanic language. Many Americans also trace their heritage back to Germany, making it a popular language to learn. Around the world, over 121 million people speak German, and one million German speakers live in the U.S.

While long words and noun declensions create a barrier to entry, learning German offers several benefits. Germany is the world's fourth-largest economy, so speaking German helps those involved in international business.

Almost every college offers French classes, which rank among the most popular languages to learn in college. More than 275 million people speak French, including 1.3 million in the U.S., making it one of the world's most commonly spoken languages. In fact, French is the official language spoken in countries on five continents. Only English can match this feat.

English and French share many root words. Of the 1,000 most commonly used English words, half trace their origins back to French. As a result, native English speakers may learn French easier.

College language classes are among the best ways to learn a language. Many colleges also require them. In language classes in college, students practice their reading, writing, and speaking skills. Many colleges offer a variety of languages, including the best languages to learn in college and less common options.

Studying abroad immerses students in culture and language. Many study-abroad programs incorporate language classes and experiences to take language skill to the next level. Simply living abroad strengthens language abilities. Check for study-abroad programs at your college, including through the foreign languages department.

Foreign language apps help language learners practice and create a daily habit of learning. Many foreign language apps offer free lessons that engage and motivate learners. Duolingo, one of the most popular foreign language apps, also offers a paid version. Students can find a foreign language app for almost any language.

At-home language programs offer an accessible way to practice a new language. One of the most common, Rosetta Stone, offers 25 languages. Learners can also explore monolingual language programs or programs that focus on a single language. Some experts point to Netflix as an at-home language program, since it offers content in more than 20 languages.

Students can seek private lessons from a native speaker to help master a language. However, online private lessons can be costly. Learners should consider their budget and needs before requesting private lessons. Specialized sites like italki connect learners with language teachers.

Learning a new language requires repetition. In addition to taking college language classes, practice outside of school and during breaks. Language apps and language learning websites help strengthen core skills. More advanced learners can watch television programs or read newspapers in the language.

While Americans speak 350 languages, there's nothing like traveling to a foreign country and immersing yourself in a language. Try to travel to a country where you can practice your language skills. In North America, Spanish and French learners can build their skills without crossing any oceans. Other languages may require a longer plane flight.

Speaking a language with native speakers helps learners master their new skills. Native speakers introduce learners to idioms and phrases that may not appear in language classes in college. When it comes to spoken language, there's nothing better than conversing with a native speaker.

When mastering one of the best languages to learn in college, consider joining a language group on campus or online. Language groups offer the opportunity to practice. They also provide structure outside of class. If you can't find a local language group, check online or start one with classmates.

Combining language study with your personal interest can make study time even more engaging. If you're a sports fan, follow sports coverage in another language. If you're a history major, study another country's history in its native language. This approach can help with motivation and engagement.