Although recognized since the establishment of South Dakota State University as an essential part of a liberal education, foreign language instruction was sporadic and, at times, nonexistent during the early years. Around 1901, Modern Languages became a regular department. French and German programs were developed, but Latin suffered an early demise, disappearing as a college subject after 1909 and from the Preparatory Department after 1911. The years of 1916-1921 were years of great importance. The courses in German and French had good attendance, and the staff was well qualified. Due to World War I, however, German was dropped in 1917 and was not taught again until 1930, consequently, Spanish was introduced.

In the 1950's, a Russian program was initiated and a composite BS Degree in Foreign Languages was approved. The 1960's saw growth of the Department of Modern Languages in both the laboratory and enrollment. A composite BA Degree in Modern Languages was approved and BA and BS Degrees were approved in French, German, Russian and Spanish. In 1969, Russian was dropped and was not taught again until the 1990's.

The Department of Modern Languages & Global Studies has as its primary mission the undergraduate teaching of languages, literature's, and cultures to South Dakota State University students, both as majors and minors, and offering service courses for all other degrees on campus. The department aspires to offer to students the best preparation possible for their future careers in the fields of their choice, so they will be proficient speakers of the target language, cross-culturally competent and critical thinkers. In addition, the department follows a strong tradition of service within the community, the state of South Dakota and beyond. Faculty in the department combine these two areas with research and scholarship in related disciplines, from research on cultural studies and literature, to the scholarship of teaching and learning, to the dissemination of their specialized knowledge to different constituencies, especially language teachers.