The University of Santo Tomas (UST) Department of Modern Languages is set to break new ground in language education with the launch of a Bachelor of Arts in Modern Languages program, offering Thomasians the opportunity to specialize in Spanish or French.

Aiming to align with global trends and foster cross-cultural understanding, this initiative marks a significant expansion of UST’s commitment to producing globally competitive language professionals.

In a report by its student publication The Flame, Department Chair Royce Randall Lim confirmed that the four-year undergraduate program will allow students to choose between Spanish and French as their primary specialization.

“The department aims to offer this program starting in the academic year 2028-2029,” Lim said.

Currently housed under the Faculty of Arts and Letters, the Department of Modern Languages provides foreign language courses across UST’s academic units.

Spanish remains a required subject for all Artlets students, alongside other offerings such as Mandarin and German. The planned degree program is expected to further strengthen the university’s role in shaping future language experts.

Beyond the curriculum, the department is forging partnerships with international institutions to provide students with immersive learning experiences and real-world exposure.

“The department is committed to strengthening international partnerships and forming new collaborations with global organizations to create more opportunities for student engagement,” he said.

This academic year, UST has partnered with renowned cultural institutions, including Goethe-Institut Philippinen and Alliance Française de Manille. A collaboration with the Philippine-Italian Association and Società Dante Alighieri Manila is also set to launch this March.

UST, in October, will host a two-day conference for Spanish language teachers in the country.