The Center for World Languages and Cultures: Bridging Languages, Cultures, and Communities

At the University of Denver, the Center for World Languages and Cultures (CWLC) provides a unique approach to language learning that extends beyond traditional academic courses. The CWLC offers three flexible, non-credit programs open to everyone. 

First, Community Language Courses bring popular languages like Spanish, French and Italian to life through evening online sessions. They also offer in-person courses such as American Sign Language (ASL) for those who prefer to learn through face-to-face instruction. Second, the Languages for YOU Program connects learners with native speakers for one-on-one or intimate group learning, specializing in less commonly taught languages such as Hindi, Swahili and Vietnamese. Lastly, for career-minded individuals, Languages for the Professions features targeted instruction with practical outcomes — like earning a micro-credential badge in "French for Professional Communications” that can be added to one’s LinkedIn profile or professional portfolio as an additional credential in a competitive job market.  

The accessibility to language-learning provided by the CWLC has profound personal impacts. One student in the Languages for YOU Program explained simply, "I want to be able to talk to my grandmother," capturing the heartfelt connections that drive many students to participate in CWLC courses. For others, particularly speakers of uncommon languages in Western countries, the CWLC provides rare opportunities for cultural expression. As one Kinyarwandan language partner shared, "This is like being in the village for me. I haven't been able to speak my language with anyone since coming to DU." 

The CWLC approach to language education puts you at the center of your learning journey. With CWLC, you will assess your starting point, set personal goals for language milestones, and reflect weekly on your progress. Instructors use immersive techniques while adapting content to your specific interests, whether you are preparing for international work, reconnecting with your heritage or simply enriching your personal life. 

Following DU's academic calendar but with built-in flexibility, CWLC’s non-credit programs offer an affordable alternative to for-credit courses typically taught within DU’s tuition-based course model. Undergraduate students can enhance their majors and prepare for global experiences. Graduate students can develop profession-specific language skills directly applicable to their research. Faculty and staff can find support for international teaching opportunities, while community members can enjoy building university connections alongside practical skills. 

As the CWLC continues to expand — introducing new professional language tracks and responding to community requests for additional languages — it remains rooted in its core mission: creating spaces where languages, cultures and diverse communities thrive together. 

Whether you are pursuing career goals, cultural reconnection or personal growth, the CWLC offers more than just language skills — it provides a home for your linguistic journey. To learn about enrollment, request specific languages or join this community of lifelong learners, reach out directly to cwlc@du.edu or visit https://liberalarts.du.edu/cwlc/learn-language/non-credit.