Overview
Learn a language! Increase your professional opportunities, become a more knowledgeable traveler, and gain an entrée into another culture at the University of Denver University College, where modern language classes are designed and delivered for busy adults in the Denver area. If you've always wanted to learn a language for personal or professional purposes, this is your opportunity to do so. Language classes meet in the evening on the University of Denver campus, allowing you to fit language study into your busy schedule, and are led by instructors with extensive teaching experience and knowledge of the countries that speak the target languages.
Using the most up−to−date teaching methods, our modern language classes feature Total Physical Response (TPR) storytelling, web-based exercises, and other computer technologies to deliver effective instruction allowing students to quickly become conversant in their chosen languages. Retain language skills quickly and grasp the cultural context as you lean a language of your choice. These two credit hour language classes meet one evening a week for 1.5 hours on the University of Denver campus. With better instructors and better teaching methods, you will learn a language more quickly and effectively and retain them longer. Our courses offer more than just language skills−students are also given a cultural context of the languages they learn, providing a deeper understanding of language intricacies.
Learn about our multi-level courses
1000 level courses - Beginning I, II, III. These courses are designed for beginners who want to acquire the basics of a language for functional and practical proficiency. The courses introduce pronunciation, vocabulary, useful expressions, and the fundamental grammatical structures that allow for communication. The continuing levels in this sequence are for students with some previous study of the language at the beginning level and are slightly more advanced. The courses familiarize students with basic oral communication skills with an emphasis on idiomatic expressions, basic grammar, and vocabulary to develop functional language skills.
2000 level courses - Intermediate I, II, III and Conversation. The goal of these courses is to improve and refine communication skills by focusing on real-life situations and modes of interaction. Students build upon their knowledge of grammar, vocabulary, and reading and engage in basic conversations about everyday subjects. The continuing courses in this sequence focus on expanded vocabulary, conversation, and new grammatical structures. The courses may serve as a very efficient review for once-fluent speakers.
3000 level courses - Advanced I, II, III. These courses are for students who have grown up with or studied the language for several years and who have a solid knowledge of the basics of a language (essential vocabulary, verb forms, and basic tenses), or who have been in situations where they have spoken the language regularly and require more advanced training in comprehension, vocabulary building, and speaking. Students at this level are able to discuss a wide range of topics and the courses focus on grammar review, advanced conversation, reading, and discussion with an emphasis on more complex tasks such as interviews, explanations, and discussions.
4000 level courses - Advanced Conversation. These courses are conducted entirely in the target language and discussion topics may include current events, social issues, international media, and cultural life. The instructors foster discussion by incorporating a variety of materials, such as newspaper and magazine articles, television and radio broadcasts, and films. The content and delivery of these courses changes every quarter so students may take them more than once.
Intensive CoursesIntensive courses are short in duration and designed to help students acquire and improve language skills rapidly. With accelerated learning techniques, students gain confidence and enthusiasm in their language ability. In a stress−free environment, music, games, role−playing, and physical activity provide a unique learning situation that gives students the freedom to expand their linguistic skills and deepen their cultural understanding. These courses usually are offered during our summer quarter.
Language Courses for TravelersPlanning an international trip? We can help you prepare for it! Our courses for travelers allow students to learn basic language skills with an emphasis on key vocabulary and phrases needed while traveling. These courses are the perfect way to learn essential language skills prior to a trip, or review those phrases you may have learned years ago. They also include discussions of cultural issues in countries where the language is spoken. In the end, these courses will help you learn essential language skills and become a well−informed traveler. These courses usually are offered during our summer quarter. Bon voyage!
Languages
- Chinese
- French
- German
- Italian
- Russian
- Spanish
Students who complete three quarters of sequential course work in a given language series (beginning, intermediate or advanced) may receive a Certificate in Modern Languages. Classes must be taken for credit and multiple certificates may be earned. Students must be officially admitted to the Modern Language Certificate prior to the third quarter. Modern Language certificates are not considered academic certificates and although course work is listed on official University of Denver transcripts, the title of the certificate awarded does not. A certificate is issued by University College, University of Denver without a raised seal.
Career Opportunities
Learn a language at the University of Denver University College and be intellectually challenged and personally and professionally rewarded through modern language classes. Bilingual professionals are in high demand in every industry and institution, and the ability to learn a language and communicate in meaningful and appropriate ways opens a world of opportunities. In business, language mastery not only promotes ease in exchange of information, but also provides knowledge about cultural procedures, protocols, and perspectives vital for any successful partnership. Modern language study at the University of Denver includes small language classes that are interactive, conversational, dynamic, and fun. You can go from basic language skills to fluency while understanding the underlying cultural beliefs and values of the target language, leveraging your skills for professional development.
Director's Message
While the world becomes increasingly interconnected, it becomes ever more important to build our knowledge and understanding of other languages and cultures. As a student in the University College Modern Languages program, you will be in a learning community of adults who seek to speak and function in a second (or third) language for personal and professional reasons. Your instructors bring extensive teaching experience to the classroom and are native or fluent speakers in the languages they teach. We welcome you to join us in exploring, studying, and learning new languages and cultures.
