Language Study
The world is full of amazing cultures and places, and having a grasp of another language is absolutely pivotal in opening up a world of opportunities.
Macquarie University has many options for language studies, including In-Country study, Short Programs, and ongoing tuition. For students seeking a unique opportunity to learn a language from the basics, in-country Short Programs are a great option offering direct immersion to the language and culture.
Language study is compatible with most Macquarie degrees, thus not hindering a student's progression in their degree. It is an invaluable addition to any student's degree.
- What languages are available to study
- Levels of Language Study
- Courses at Macquarie
- Short Course and overseas programs
- Funding for independent language study overseas
What languages are available to study
Macquarie offers study in the following languages: French, German, Italian, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, Polish, Greek, Croatian, Macedonian.
Students can also take courses in Danish, Swedish, Norwegian, Dutch, and Finnish through Macquarie University’s international partners.
Levels of Language Study
Whether students are absolute beginners or already on their way to being fluent, there is a language program available for every student.
In most cases, absolute beginners will begin their language study at Macquarie in semester 1. However, students may also take an introductory course overseas in July or January before commencing a full semester course in semester 1.
Courses at Macquarie
Macquarie is very fortunate to be able to offer Certificates, Diplomas and Degrees in various language programs. There are 100, 200 and 300 level courses in all the languages mentioned above.
Please see the European Languages Department and the Asian Languages Department.
Language study is so much more rewarding when studied in-country. Therefore, the language departments offer great in-country units in: France (3-4 weeks), New Caledonia (French), Germany (4 weeks), Russia (3-4 weeks), Italy, Japanese (varying lengths), Chinese (varying lengths).
All of these programs attract generous travel grants from Macquarie University. Please see the relevant language department for more information about these language programs.
Short Course and overseas programs
There are several short term language programs available each year for students at all levels of proficiency. These programs usually run in the July period between semesters 1 and 2, as well as during the long summer holidays. Students do not necessarily need formal language background to participate on these programs. Students will need to obtain credit for this overseas language program, which may be credited towards the student's Macquarie degree.
Please see the Short Term and Other Programs section for program information.
Students with a good command of a language may also be able to undertake a full semester or year on exchange at one of Macquarie University's Partner Universities. Please see the Exchange section of the website.
Funding for independent language study overseas
Students interested in studying a language not offered by Macquarie may still be elibible for funding to study that language overseas.
Please see the Travel Grant section of the website for more details regarding eligibility and award amounts.
Students applying for independent language study are responsible for (1) Applying to the host institution (2) Paying the host institution Program fees, and (3) If relevant, arranging credit transfer back to Macquarie University.