With today's increased opportunity for exchange across language communities, the need for competence in other languages and the ability to think critically about how language constructs people's sense of reality have also increased.

Earlham's Comparative Languages and Linguistics major offers students the option of combining the study of two or more languages with their interest in linguistics and language-related content areas such as literature, film and other cultural products. It demands that students develop culturally appropriate communicative skills in more than one language and reflect upon the nature of language itself. Students choose from two areas of focus: one focusing on two languages, and another  exploring three or more languages. Both tracks require off-campus study, a colloquium and a senior thesis that includes a public presentation.

The Major prepares students for a variety of careers in teaching, translation, law, communications, non-profit work and international business.