Languages

Your passport to the world

Learning a foreign language is essential for success in today’s increasingly interconnected world—and there’s no better place to study languages than Indiana University, which is recognized worldwide for its exceptional language instruction as well as its commitment to offering less commonly taught languages.

In the College of Arts and Sciences, home to IU’s language programs, you can choose from more than 80+ languages—everything from Akan to Zulu. And when you’re ready to fully immerse yourself in your chosen language, you can take advantage of more than 300 study abroad programs in over 50 countries.

Which language will you learn?

Almost all undergraduates in the College are required to demonstrate proficiency in a foreign language to graduate.

If you’re pursuing a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, you must demonstrate proficiency equivalent to four semesters of study. Most Bachelor of Science degrees require three semesters of foreign language study, although requirements vary slightly by program. A few degrees, such as the Bachelor of Arts in International Studies, require six semesters.

The Bachelor of Liberal Studies degree does not require any foreign language study, but students may apply foreign language courses toward the degree.

Beyond the classroom

From study abroad experiences to the IU Language Workshop, the College offers plenty of ways to immerse yourself in your chosen language.

Study abroad

As a student in the College of Arts and Sciences, you’re eligible to apply for study abroad programs offered by any of the eight IU campuses. The College of Arts and Sciences and the IU Education Abroad can help you find the program that’s right for you.

Explore study abroad opportunities

Language Flagship programs

The College offers Language Flagship programs in Arabic, Mandarin Chinese, and Russian. The programs, which include classroom learning, extracurricular activities, and overseas study, allow IU students to achieve professional proficiency in one of those languages as they pursue any of the undergraduate degree programs available at IU.

The Language Flagship programs are offered in partnership with the U.S. Department of Defense’s Defense Language and National Security Education Office.

Visit the Language Flagship website

IU Language Workshop

IU’s Language Workshop allows undergraduates, graduate students, and professionals to get intensive instruction in languages critical to academic research, economic development, human rights, diplomacy, national security, cultural exchange, scientific advancement, and other global issues.

Learn about IU's Language Workshop