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Foreign Language and International Trade
The Foreign Language and International Trade (FLIT) specialization combines language proficiency with business training to prepare you for a career in the global economy. Offered through a collaboration between the College of Liberal Arts and the College of Business, this interdisciplinary program is ideal if you're passionate about foreign languages and international commerce.
You’ll build a strong foundation in marketing, finance, and management while becoming fluent in Chinese, German, Japanese, or Spanish. Real-world experiences like study abroad, global internships, and cultural immersion give you a competitive edge after graduation.
FLIT graduates find success in international trade, global marketing, foreign service, diplomacy, and translation. Whether you’re working for a multinational corporation, nonprofit, or government agency, this degree equips you to thrive in international business and communication.
Bachelor of Arts Degree Requirements
The Foreign Language and International Trade Specialization can be earned by fulfilling the requirements for the Bachelor of Arts degree.
- Total Degree Requirements: 113-124 credit hours
- University Core Curriculum: 39 credit hours
- College of Liberal Arts Requirements: 6 credit hours
- Chinese, French, German, Japanese or Spanish: 3 credit hours
- 5 electives in the single chosen language: 21 credit hours
- Other School Requirements: 1-12 credit hours
- Business Related Courses: 43 credit hours
- General Elective: 3 credit hours
Check out the undergraduate Curricular Guide, which helps you outline what courses you would want to take each semester for all four years.
High School prep
If you're considering the Foreign Language and International Trade (FLIT) program, there are steps you can take in high school to get a head start. Taking at least two years of a foreign language can help you skip a year of college-level study, and four years may allow you to begin at an advanced level—potentially saving two years of coursework. You can also earn college credit through AP or CLEP exams, SIU’s proficiency testing, or by validating credit (earning an A or B in a higher-level course could grant retroactive credit for lower-level classes).
Beyond language prep, FLIT courses in economics, math, and management can help you pass placement exams and reduce your core requirements. Gaining real-world experience through summer jobs related to international business or participating in study abroad programs—even short-term exchanges—can also strengthen your language skills and global perspective. With early preparation, you’ll be well on your way to a successful international career through the FLIT program.
Internships
The Foreign Language and International Trade (FLIT) internship is a key component of the program, offering students hands-on international experience that prepares them for careers in the global marketplace. Taken as FL 495, this course typically involves working abroad in a country where the student’s target language is spoken. The internship counts for 3–6 credit hours toward foreign language requirements and must be completed after finishing core coursework. To be eligible, students must have senior standing, a minimum 2.75 GPA, and must have completed both a business language course and a culture course. Each internship is supervised by a FLIT Language Advisor.
Students are responsible for securing their own internships, but they receive guidance from advisors who can offer resources, potential leads, and letters of recommendation. While some internships may cover basic living expenses, students should plan for additional costs, including travel, tuition, and health insurance. This real-world experience is not only a graduation requirement but also a valuable step toward building a global career.
Alternative Study Abroad Option
Students may substitute the internship with at least 8 weeks and 12 credit hours of an approved Study Abroad program.
This international experience is a crucial step in preparing for a career in global business—start planning now for a transformation opportunity with SIU’s FLIT program!
Contact Information
Scott Collins
Interim Director
Faner Hall 3080
1000 Faner Dr
Carbondale, IL 62901
618-536-5571
sll@siu.edu
Christopher Chiasson
FLIT Coordinator & Advisor
Faner Hall 3234
1000 Faner Dr
Carbondale, IL 62901
618-453-5422
christopher.chiasson@siu.edu