Why Undergraduate Certificate in Languages?
Exploring languages and cultures opens doors to new people, places and perspectives.
Language shapes how we express ideas, understand culture and make sense of the world. Learning another language can help you listen with greater insight, communicate across cultures and see questions from fresh angles.
Adelaide University’s Undergraduate Certificate in Languages offers language and cultural courses in Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Modern Greek, Spanish, and Aboriginal languages.
Study this undergraduate certificate alongside any Adelaide University degree to expand your career options and prepare for roles in global settings.
Overview
Adelaide University’s Undergraduate Certificate in Languages is a short, structured way to study a language (or languages) alongside any Adelaide University degree.
You’ll complete four typically adding six months to your overall studies. Choose one or more languages and begin at a level suited to your experience, whether you are learning from the start or continuing previous study.
You’ll build practical speaking, listening, reading and writing skills while exploring the cultures related to the language(s) you study.
This undergraduate certificate can complement any Adelaide University degree and help you approach people and ideas with greater cultural awareness, communicate more thoughtfully in diverse settings and decide whether you want to pursue further language study.
Key features
Get a taste of language study through a focused four-course undergraduate certificate.- Choose from the widest range of languages in South Australia.
- Study alongside your degree and typically add six months to your studies.
- Begin your language studies as a new learner or continue from your existing level.
- Develop practical communication skills and greater cultural awareness.
- Access flexible online and on-campus options for selected courses.
What you'll learn
The Undergraduate Certificate in Languages builds practical communication and language skills you can use when solving problems and working with others in professional, community and global settings.
By exploring language and culture, you’ll learn to recognise different perspectives and respond to challenges with respect and social responsibility.
You’ll also develop self-directed and reflective learning habits to support your progress and prepare for further language study.
The Undergraduate Certificate in Languages offers language and cultural courses in:
- Chinese
- French
- German
- Italian
- Japanese
- Modern Greek
- Spanish
- Aboriginal languages.
A Diploma in Languages is also available. The diploma consists of eight courses and typically adds one year to your overall study time.
Degree Structure: Undergraduate Certificate in Languages
Program code: UCLAN
Courses
Listed here are all the courses that contribute to your program, including elective options that can be chosen. These courses come together to form your study plan. Courses fall into different categories, each of which have specific unit values that need to be met under the program rules.
Career outcomes
The Undergraduate Certificate in Languages adds language and intercultural skills to your primary degree. These skills can help you communicate effectively with clients, colleagues and communities from diverse backgrounds.
Depending on your field, this added perspective may support work with international partners, multilingual audiences or culturally diverse communities.
It can also provide a foundation for further language study.
These capabilities may be valuable across areas such as:
- International business and trade
- Government and community services
- Education and cultural organisations
- Tourism and events
- Health and social services
- Media, communication and public engagement.
Industry trends
As technology reshapes work, employers are placing greater value on human capabilities alongside digital skills. The World Economic Forum (2025) identifies multilingualism among the skills expected to increase in use by 2030. Adding language and intercultural knowledge to your primary degree can help you contribute to workplaces that engage with culturally diverse communities.
Ready to apply?
Your study experience and support
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
- Career advice and mentoring services
- Personal counselling
- LGBTQIA+ support
- Academic support
- Fees and finance help
- Security services
- Accommodation services
- Common rooms
- Prayer rooms.
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Your campus
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Study hours
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
