Knowledge of a Second Language

Exposure to a second language is an important part of international studies.  Before completing the M.A. program, students must demonstrate familiarity with a language other than their native tongue.  This can be done through two years of successful college-level study (either before entering the program or concurrently) or — if the student has gained competence through other means (such as tutoring or living outside their country of birth)— through certification by the appropriate language department.

Options for Meeting the Language Requirement

• Ideally your language training will be relevant to your regional focus in your master’s coursework; however, there is no requirement that these be consistent. Thus, you can complete the language requirement in any language that is of interest to you.


• While no regular undergraduate language courses are offered at the KU Edwards Campus, we are fortunate to have the Confucius Institute at Edwards. They offer community courses in Mandarin Chinese that can be used to meet the language requirement for International Studies. Please consult with Noel (noel@ku.edu) about this if you are interested in pursuing this option.


• There is no requirement that language courses be completed at KU. If you are predominantly an Edwards Campus student, you may want to explore language courses offered at JCCC or any other college in the KC metro area that is convenient for you.


• KU’s French, Spanish, and German Departments offer language courses designed specifically to help graduate students meet the language requirements of many doctoral programs; these courses can be used to meet the International Studies language requirement as well and generally will allow a student to meet the level of proficiency needed with just one semester of coursework. For more information, contact Noel (noel@ku.edu).


• KU’s Office of Study Abroad offers many options for summer language study. Often a student can get credit for the equivalent of 2 semesters of study in a 6-8 week program. If summer travel is possible for you, explore the program options at http://www.studyabroad.ku.edu/.