Humanities and Languages

Studying the humanities has reached new levels of importance in our society since nearly every interaction we experience is dependent on technology in one way or another. We understand that our own communication skills can be improved by studying the "how" and "why" of human communication. Language skills and having insight into your interactions with others are invaluable assets for many career paths. Nearly every job requires some level of communication or dependence on language, and Oakton can ensure that you're prepared for your next step, whatever it may be.

At Oakton, you’ll gain the ability to make important connections and add meaning to human relationships while pursuing one of our eight Humanities and Language programs. Aspiring writers can pursue a certificate or degree in English and become a Great Books Scholar as part of our Great Books program. Oakton also offers instruction in 13 modern languages, four of which are available in an online course format. With a diverse assortment of disciplines to choose from, the Humanities and Language programs at Oakton offer opportunities to learn from renowned faculty who care deeply about their subjects and their students.

Oakton offers concentrations in Jewish Studies, Peace and Social Justice, and Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. Take your learning beyond campus with the Study Abroad program. 

What Do You Want to Be?

Student studying with a computer.
  • Teacher
  • Designer 
  • Marketing and sales manager
  • Web designer 
  • Technical writer 
Outdoor classroom framed by green trees.
  • Interpreter 
  • Lawyer 
  • Copywriter 
  • Business manager
  • Political analyst 

How Will You Get There?

Studying Humanities and Languages teaches you how to think critically, an asset in any industry. Depending on the number of classes you take each semester:

Can be completed within 2+ years

Designed to transfer into a 4-year Bachelor's program; includes all General Education coursework. View Oakton's Transfer Partnerships and Guides here.

Oakton offers pre-majors:

Can be completed within 6 months - 1+ year

Gain a new skill or upskill to enhance your resume; complete it stand-alone or talk with Advising to plan how the certificate can be a stepping stone to a further degree. 

Discover majors and in-demand careers based on your interests. The Career Coach assessment is a 6- or 60-question quiz that links your interests to programs offered here at Oakton and local career opportunities. Don’t worry about education, training or cost when answering the questions; just consider what you would like to spend time doing.

Take the Career Coach Assessment

Bushra Khan

"At some point in time, I stopped believing in myself, but I think winning gold at the Phi Ro Pi speech competition was the world's was of saying this is who you are and your journey is about uplifting people as you uplift yourself."

Be Inspired by Bushra's Persistence

Bushra Khan

Luis Toro

"In high school I'd just let things come to me. But at Oakton, I want to put my name out there."

Learn How Luis Found His Voice

Luis Toro

Talk with Admission to map your path.

Where to Begin?

Every great professional starts out right where you are. The first step in your college journey (and where it takes you) is to fill out an application. Select this Area of Interest in your application, so we can best support you explore this path.