Languages & cultures
Study with one of Australia’s top five faculties for modern languages
By studying languages and cultures at UNSW, you’ll explore the importance of intercultural communications and how it has become a significant part of daily life. Mastering language skills, cross-cultural understanding, and engaging with people from other countries and cultures will enrich your global perspective and prepare you for an international career. At UNSW, we're ranked #5 in Australia for modern languages (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2025).
Why study a language or culture?
Studying a language or culture is essential for effectively communicating and interacting with people from diverse cultures. Learning a language goes beyond the linguistic skills you’ll gain by opening your mind to the historical and cultural background that forms different worldviews. In a globally connected world, appreciation of different cultures helps us to become global citizens who collaborate, promote peace and build more inclusive communities. These skills can open doors to international career opportunities and empower you to play an active role in shaping a cooperative, inclusive and better world for all.
Career opportunities in languages and cultures
Studying language and cultures prepares you for a wide range of careers, from commerce, finance and business to diplomacy, education, tourism, media, and public service. Our graduates develop skills that are sought after in diplomacy, government, translation and interpreting, journalism, arts, science and technology, education, mining, hospitality, tourism and business.
International exchange, short courses and study tours
UNSW encourages you to spend time studying overseas, studying at one of our partner institutions as part of your degree. We manage a large and active exchange program with over 300 partner universities around the world.
On-campus community and facilities
Engage in unique cultural experiences through UNSW Languages Week, a multi-day event celebrating the diverse languages taught at UNSW. Utilise our state-of-the-art language laboratories, conference interpreting facilities and translation technology.
What languages can you study at UNSW?
Study with us
Our language courses are designed for students of all language levels. Entry is flexible, so your language course will be tailored to your level of experience and skills.
Beginners courses focus on language skills and grammar using a communicative approach emphasising interaction. Courses at intermediate, advanced and professional levels maintain and develop language skills while providing in-depth contextual knowledge through studying popular culture, history, linguistics and literature.
Language Placement Questionnaire
The Language Placement Questionnaire is a series of questions designed to help you enrol in classes most appropriate to your level of language knowledge.
If you have prior language experience or are a native speaker of a particular language, you're required to complete a language placement in order to be placed at an appropriate starting point. The online language placement is for students enrolling in a language at UNSW for the first time.