Diploma of Languages

The Diploma of Languages prepares students for the increasingly multilingual and international life of the 21st century. You will be taken on a language learning journey designed to facilitate in-depth engagement with the linguistic and cultural aspects of your chosen language or languages. You can choose to study a wide selection of languages, many of which are not available at any other university in Australia.

You can complete the diploma by doing the equivalent of a major in one language (8 courses), or for those who have prior learning, by doing an Advanced minor (4 courses) in one language, as well as either a second minor (4 courses) in another language or four other language-related courses from those listed under the Program Requirements.

The Diploma of Languages can be studied concurrently with other ANU programs. Current ANU students who apply to this program will be signalling their intent to complete the Diploma of Languages and their other ANU program concurrently and will require approval for concurrent studies from their current College. Please send written approval to domestic.admissions@anu.edu.

Applicants commencing in Semester 2 are advised that beginner level language courses are only available for students starting in Semester 1. Enrolment in Semester 2 courses will be subject to a language placement test, and the availability of an appropriate course is not guaranteed. 

Note that in most cases, the Diploma will be completed on a part-time basis over 3-4 years. Completion on a full-time basis is also possible in limited cases if students have the required language competency upon commencement. Please contact the academic convenor for further information. 

Areas of study

Ancient Greek, Arabic, Burmese, Chinese, French language and culture, German language and culture, Hindi, Hispanic linguistics and culture, Indonesian, Italian language and culture, Japanese, Korean, Latin, Mongolian, Pacific languages, Persian, Russian, Sanskrit, Spanish, Tetum, Thai, Tibetan, Urdu, Vietnamese.

Career opportunities

This diploma will suit you if you are interested in working for organisations or businesses that deal with non-English speaking countries,a government career including foreign aid, or if you want to work in a non-English speaking country when you graduate. Graduates may find work in international relations, diplomacy, trade, national security and strategy, translation, language teaching, tourism, development and many other fields.

Fees and charges

Refer to ANU current fee information.