The Department of Modern Languages equips students with the necessary basic and intermediate skills in oral and written communication in Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Russian and acquaints them with the history, art and culture of the countries in which these languages are spoken. It also fosters their understanding and appreciation of Philippine culture in the process.

The Department seeks to be a leading center in Asia for foreign language learning in a rapidly, constantly changing world. In so being, it makes its students capable of asserting themselves in the global and local scene. The Department also seeks to form Christian leaders who possess the communication skills needed for them to interact and excel in a social, business or professional environment, and who are deeply rooted in Philippine culture and knowledgeable in foreign cultures and affairs. It does the above through partnerships with other sectors within and outside the Ateneo.