If you feel that your question has not been answered, please feel free to contact the department chair, Dr. Bärbel Such at such@ohio.edu.
What is the DML?
The Department of Modern Languages in the College of Arts & Sciences at Ohio University.
What programs are offered in Modern Languages?
We offer an M.A. in Spanish, B.A. in Spanish, minors in French, German, and Spanish, and certificates in German Studies and Italian Studies.
How do I know where to start in my language?
If you have had little or no prior study in the language, we recommend starting with 1110. If you have taken more than two HS classes in your language, take the placement exam to determine the Ohio University course that best matches your skills. If you have AP credit or the Seal of Biliteracy in your language, you may qualify for a higher-level course. See the sections below for details.
How is AP credit in French, German, Italian and Spanish applied at Ohio University?
Ohio University recognizes Advanced Placement (AP) exam scores in French, German, Italian and Spanish for the purpose of awarding university credit and determining appropriate course placement. Students are encouraged to consult the university’s AP Credit Guide for detailed information on score requirements, course equivalencies, and instructions for submitting official scores. AP credit may fulfill language requirements or allow students to begin coursework at a more advanced level, depending on the score earned.
Is the Seal of Biliteracy recognized at Ohio University?
Yes. Ohio University recognizes the Seal of Biliteracy as evidence of language proficiency and uses it to support placement in French, German, Italian and Spanish. Students seeking language placement using Seal of Biliteracy scores must submit their scores for review within 12 months of their high school graduation.
Students who have earned the Seal of Biliteracy in the state of Ohio may be eligible for a waiver of coursework through the Intermediate II level (courses 1110, 1120, 2110 and 2120). These students may enroll directly in Advanced Conversation & Composition I (3110) without taking a placement test.
Out-of-state students who have earned the Seal of Biliteracy may be eligible for a waiver of coursework, depending on the Seal passing scores required in their home state.
This pathway can support progress toward a certificate (German or Italian), a minor (French, German or Spanish) or major (Spanish) while completing other degree programs at Ohio University.
Students seeking recognition of the Seal must submit official documentation (such as an official Seal of Biliteracy certificate, a school transcript with Seal notation, or state-issued score report) to modern.languages@ohio.edu for verification and approval.
Do I have to take a placement test?
No, you do not have to take the test. We recommend all students to start at the 1110 level. A placement test is available in French, German and Spanish for students with extensive experience with the language who would like to start their language classes higher than the 1110 level.
What do I need to do to take the placement test?
- Send an email from your OHIO email to cas.undergrad@ohio.edu.
- Make the subject line on the email: Language Placement Test request.
- State you would like to register for the Online Language Placement Test.
- Include your PID.
- State which language you would like to take.
- Include how much experience in the language you have had (how many years in middle school, how many years in high school, how many years at another college, travel abroad including where and how long).
What do I need to bring to take the placement test?
You will take the test online. The test must be taken on a laptop or desktop computer (tablets, Chromebooks, and phones will not work). You must have a working webcam. You must use either Firefox (preferred) or Chrome. You must have your OHIO ID.
Where do I go to get my results?
Allow sufficient time (at least two to four days) for the test to be taken and the results posted.
What if I feel I was placed too low?
If you start attending classes and you feel you were placed too low be sure to talk to the instructor. The instructor will let you know where to go from this point.
What if I feel I was placed too high?
If you start attending classes and you feel you were placed too low be sure to talk to the instructor. The instructor will let you know where to go from this point.
Can I start lower or higher than my placement results?
Generally no, we recommend you start in the level where you place.
Is there a test I can take to place out of my language requirement?
You must take the placement test. If you are a BA student, a score in the 3000 level will complete your language requirement. If you are a BS, a score in the 2000 level will complete your language requirement. AP credit can also be considered.
How do I get a green slip/permission slip into a class?
If there is a reason preventing you from registering a class, you should contact the instructor and discuss a permission. If there is no instructor of record listed in course offerings, please contact the department chair.
What if none of the open sections fit my schedule?
Contact the instructor the instructor who will advise you on what to do or direct you to the right person who will guide you.
What if I want to take a class that is full and other sections are open?
We will generally not grant special permissions into sections that is full. You must register for any of the sections that show open.
Does Modern Languages offer any study abroad programs?
Yes, we currently offer a summer program in Italy. View the DML website for details.
How do I study abroad?
Talk to your instructor or faculty mentor first, then contact the Office of Global Opportunities.
How do I make an appointment with the Department Chair?
Contact Dr. Bärbel Such at such@ohio.edu or call 740-597-2725.
How do I schedule for class?
What do I do if the system will not let me schedule for class?
You will need to seek assistance in the office of the registrar located in Chubb Hall. You can also give them a call at 740-593-4191 or email at registrar@ohio.edu.
Where do I go to see how my credits transfer?
You will need to contact the directory 740-593-1000 and then ask to be transferred to Wilson Hall. They will then be able to assist you with how your languages credits will transfer. Or, call Adam Brown directly at 740-593-2844 or email browna8@ohio.edu.