Welcome to the School of Languages and Linguistics at the University of New South Wales

Here at the School, we encourage our students to become citizens of the world, and look beyond narrow boundaries. What better way to do that than the study of other languages and cultures? Our graduating students are comfortable in at least one language other than their own, and often more than that. They are also well-acquainted with other cultures, and motivated to explore different ways of reading, thinking and expressing themselves.

We pride ourselves in equipping our students with the analytical tools to engage critically in the global exchange of ideas. Our teaching program is designed to develop your language skills and expose you to the culture and histories associated with those languages.

We also provide you with the opportunity to learn about how languages work. Understanding the similarities and differences among languages is likely to develop your analytical skills so you can become excellent communicators and clear thinkers. If you’re looking for a career in which you deal effectively with people from other countries using different languages, our program will prepare you well. If you’re simply intrigued by the variety of languages and cultures that can be studied, you’ll be at home here. Our language courses are pitched at various levels of proficiency from absolute beginner to background speaker.

As part of our program, we urge our students to engage in study abroad periods to immerse themselves in their chosen language. We can facilitate these exchange opportunities with our partner universities in other countries. Intercultural communication, irrespective of the languages involved, has become an essential part of all of our lives. Skill in using different languages and knowledge of their structure and use could extend your horizons, professionally and personally. We look forward to welcoming you to the School and wish you well in your studies with us.

Hans Hendrischke

Head of School