About

Welcome to real world studies

Welcome to SFU's Department of World Languages and Literatures (WLL).

Our mission is to offer an approach to the study of world languages and literature that emphasizes collaboration across linguistic and disciplinary lines. Through teaching and research, we promote a dynamic and innovative approach to language and literary study that reflects and supports our diverse society.

Our instructors are experts in their fields, with many years of experience and wide cultural knowledge to give depth to your learning.

Why study world languages and literature?

Learning a new language or reading world literature leads you to different ways of seeing the world. In our globalized society, knowledge of these areas makes you uniquely positioned to understand cultural variation and diversity as well as the complexity of cross-cultural contact and exchange. 

An excellent path to a career in teaching

Due to these benefits, WLL studies are an excellent segue into a career in teaching. If you are interested in this path, please contact our academic advisor to discuss. Also take a look at SFU's highly-regarded teacher education program, the Professional Development Program (PDP), which we recommend you pursue after you complete your WLL studies. 

If you want to stretch your mind, travel the world, or seek global opportunities—study with us in the Department of World Languages and Literatures. We’ll take you places!

More career possibilities

World languages and literature students may pursue occupations including:

  • Communications Specialist
  • Campaign Manager
  • Copy Writer
  • Critic
  • Development Project Manager
  • Director of Community Relations
  • Editor
  • Education Director
  • Foreign Affairs Officer
  • Human Resources Specialist
  • Journalist
  • Lawyer
  • Librarian
  • Museum Curator
  • Policy Advisor
  • Public Relations Assistant
  • Researcher
  • Writer

Contact Us

Department of World Languages and Literatures
Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
Simon Fraser University
8888 University Drive, AQ 5120
Burnaby, BC Canada  V5A 1S6
wll_admin@sfu.ca
1-778-782-3689

Students, please contact wll_admin@sfu.ca to be subscribed to the World Languages and Literatures undergraduate email list for regular WLL updates, upcoming event notifications, and more.