The programs of the Department of Asian & Near Eastern Languages aim to help students develop competence in important languages of Asia and the Near East, an understanding and appreciation of the peoples, literatures, and cultures of those areas of the world, and the ability to think critically as well as to communicate effectively and appropriately in specific cultural contexts. The programs aim to help students acquire skills for self-managed, life-long learning, develop historical perspective and global awareness, and, in general, to "study and learn, and become acquainted with all good books, and with languages, tongues, and people" (D&C 90:15), in particular those of Asia and the Near East. The programs aim to prepare students for academic, professional, and personal lives in which the attitudes, skills, and competencies developed in the programs will enable them to render significant service to others in whatever global setting they may find themselves. The programs aim to support the mission of Brigham Young University and its sponsoring institution, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, by helping students develop the academic skills and competencies referred to above in a setting that promotes faith in Jesus Christ, a love of God and of our fellow beings, the development of character and integrity, and a commitment to life-long service.