Growing numbers of students of Armenian origin descending on the fledgling campus of California State University, Northridge (CSUN), prompted the founding of the Armenian Student Association (ASA) in 1976. Seven years later, in 1983, the first course in Armenian Language was offered, setting the groundwork for the establishment of the Armenian Studies Program (ASP).<br><br>In the time since those foundations were laid more than 30 years ago, CSUN has become the largest campus by enrollment in the 23-campus California State University system, averaging between 38,000 and 40,000 students on its campus each year. Along with this growth, there has also been a steady rise in the population of students and faculty of Armenian descent. Armenian CSUN students consistently number between 8 and 10 percent of the overall student body. It is estimated that the University graduates approximately 450 Armenian students annually. Additionally, CSUN has more than 100 Armenian faculty and staff, among them program directors, department chairs, and associate vice presidents. <br>The Languages and Cultures major prepares students for an increasingly globalized and interdependent world that rewards knowledge of languages and cultural literacy. The major provides students with advanced proficiency in language skills and cultural competency that will enable them to expand career opportunities and enhance their personal lives in an international and intercultural environment. In addition to studies in a primary target language, students take courses in comparative study of cultures and literatures to gain insight into the interrelation of language, culture and human nature. The two required seminars in cultural theories and methodologies constitute the capstone experience for intercultural studies. Students also are encouraged to study abroad, take a secondary target language and select from a rich array of courses offered in other departments that deal with interactions among peoples, cultures and regions.