As a student at the University of Iowa, you're on a journey to broaden your horizons, and learning a world language is a crucial part of that. Your language courses will help you engage meaningfully with different cultures and gain essential intercultural skills. Whether you're studying, working, or just interacting with people from around the globe, these skills will be invaluable.
The language requirement varies by college and, sometimes, by your specific program. The chart below provides undergraduate world language graduation requirements for each college.
Your specific requirements may be different, and it's always a good idea to talk to your advisor to make sure you're on the right track.
Undergraduate World Language Graduation Requirements
| College | current requirement | requirement starting summer 2024 | notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) | Complete 4th level of a single world language |
Three pathways:
|
Current and former CLAS students may opt-in to the updated WL requirement beginning in summer 2024. |
| College of Education | Complete 4th level of a single world language |
Three pathways:
|
Current and former College of Education students may opt-in to the updated WL requirement beginning in summer 2024. |
| Tippie College of Business |
Two options:
|
Same as current | |
| College of Public Health |
Three options:
|
Three options:
|
|
| College of Nursing (BSN Program) |
Three options:
|
Same as current |
|
| College of Engineering | Complete 2nd level of a world language | Same as current | World language is not required by the college, but all first-year students must complete the 2nd level of a world language to be considered for admission to Iowa. |
| College of Pharmacy | Complete 2nd level of a world language | Same as current | World language is not required by the college, but all first-year students must complete the 2nd level of a world language to be considered for admission to Iowa. |
| Carver College of Medicine (Radiation Sciences and Nuclear Medicine Technology) | Complete 2nd level of a world language | Same as current | World language must be completed prior to acceptance into the major. |
| Carver College of Medicine (Medical Laboratory Science BS) | Complete 4th level of a single world language |
Three pathways:
|
|
| University College | None | Same as current | EXCEPTION: Global Studies Track in the Bachelor of Liberal Studies requires 4th semester proficiency in a single world language. |
Frequently Asked Questions
A: This refers to the number of years of high school world language (2 years is 2nd level) or semesters of college-level world language that you have completed. Examples of courses that are 4th level include "SPAN:1002 Intermediate Spanish II" and "ASL:2002 American Sign Language IV".
A: Yes, current and former CLAS students may choose to follow the updated language requirements starting in Summer 2024.
A: No, students in the RN to BSN Program are exempt from the foreign language requirement.
A: While there is no specific language requirement, you will need to complete a 3 credit-hour Global Perspectives and a 3 credit-hour Domestic Diversity course. If you are on the Global Studies Track, you will need to complete up to the 4th level in a single world language.
A: This means taking a course that explores topics and issues through the lens of a world language(s) and/or culture(s). Courses help you expand your knowledge of language systems and structure and/or the role of language in social interactions, cultural environments, and identity formation. Suitable work may align with prior world language experience or engage with a different language, and may include a study abroad or experiential learning course. The list of approved courses for this requirement will be provided by your academic advisor or on MyUI.
A: If you are a current student who has questions about the language requirement for your major, you should reach out to your academic advisor. They will be able to provide guidance based on your specific program and course of study. Prospective students should contact the Office of Admissions.