World Language Proficiency
World Language Proficiency
Why do IAFS Majors have to take a language?Ìý
To deepen their understanding of global regions and enhance cross-cultural communication skills, IAFS majors are required to demonstrate third-year, university-level proficiency in a world language that aligns with their Geographic Concentration. Language study complements regional coursework and prepares students for meaningful engagement in international settings - whether in research, diplomacy, global business, or study abroad.
This requirement is typically met by completing two 3000-level grammar courses in the chosen language (except Spanish; see table below for details).
- Language Declaration: Students must declare their language with their IAFS academic advisor by the end of sophomore year.
- Placement & Proficiency: If the language is offered at Âé¶¹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØBoulder, students must take the department’s placement test by the end of sophomore year. Students must complete at least the final semester of their required language sequence at the 3000 level.
- Special Circumstances: If seeking a proficiency waiver for a language not offered at Âé¶¹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØBoulder or for native speakers, students must consult their IAFS advisor by the end of sophomore year.
- Study Abroad Language Courses: If planning to fulfill part of the requirement while abroad, speak with your IAFS advisor in advance.
Specific Requirement by Language
For the following languages, the third-year courses which will fulfill the language requirement are:
³¢²¹²Ô²µ³Ü²¹²µ±ðÌý | CoursesÌý Ìý Ìý | Geographic Concentration(s) |
---|---|---|
Arabic | ARAB 3110 & 3120 | Africa/Middle East |
Chinese | CHIN 3110 & 3120 | Asia |
Farsi | FRSI 3110 & 3120 | Africa/Middle East |
French | FREN 3010 & 3050 | Africa/Middle East Europe/Eurasia |
German | GRMN 3010 & 3020 | Europe/Eurasia |
Hebrew | HEBR 3010 & 3020 | Africa/Middle East |
Hindi | HIND 3110 & 3120 | Asia |
Italian | ITAL 3015 &Ìýone of the following: ITAL 3025, 3030, or 3040 | Europe/Eurasia |
Japanese | JPNS 3110 & 3120 | Asia |
Korean | KREN 3110 & 3120 | Asia |
Portuguese | PORT 3003 &Ìýone of the following: PORT 3230, 4110, or 4150 | Europe/Eurasia Latin America |
Russian | RUSS 3010 & 3020 | Europe/Eurasia |
Spanish | SPAN 3000 ORÌýtwo of the three following courses: SPAN 3010, SPAN 3100, or SPAN 3120 (with approved prerequisite exemption; contact Spanish and Portuguese for placement exam details) | Europe/Eurasia Latin America |
Swedish | SWED 3010 & 3020 | Europe/Eurasia |
Tutoring Resources
- The Anderson Language and Technology Center (ALTEC) offers freeÌýtutoring for lower-level language classes.
- Other tutoring services are available through the College of Arts & Sciences Academic Advising and Coaching services.
Questions?
- Consult your IAFS academic advisor with questions or to confirm what is necessary to complete theÌýWorld Language Proficiency requirements.