Languages
Discipline
Study one or more of some of the world’s most strategically important languages: Arabic, Chinese, Indonesian and Spanish.
Explore language study options
Gain a global edge by studying Arabic, Chinese, Indonesian or Spanish as a minor or elective in arts, international studies, business, commerce, selected double degrees or any Deakin degree with free electives. Chinese is also available as a major in arts and selected secondary teaching degrees.
Chinese
Study Mandarin Chinese at Deakin and gain valuable insights into the language, culture and history of one of Australia's biggest trading partners. Spoken by more than one billion people worldwide, Mandarin is also one of Australia's most widely spoken languages.
Indonesian
Study Indonesian at Deakin and explore the language, culture and history of one of Australia's closest neighbours. Learn Bahasa Indonesia, the country's official language, and build valuable communication skills that can strengthen your connections across the Asia-Pacific region.
Spanish
Study Spanish at Deakin and develop language skills that connect you with cultures and communities around the world. Spoken by nearly 500 million native speakers, Spanish is an official language in more than 20 countries.
Arabic
Study Arabic at Deakin and explore the language, culture and history of a region with global economic, religious and historical significance. Develop valuable communication skills and connect with diverse communities in Australia and around the world.
Find a course that lets you study a language
Explore Deakin courses that offer language studies as a major, minor or elective and find an option that suits your interests and career goals.
Study online with the #1 Victorian uni for student support
Our online language courses give you the flexibility to study on your terms, with the backing of a support network to help you succeed. Join over 78,000 online students who have already graduated with Deakin.
Choose a degree that will get you work ready
Gain a competitive edge in your career by learning the languages of some of Australia’s key trading partners while developing a deeper understanding of diverse cultures and societies.
Flexible degree options
Deakin offers flexible language study options to suit your interests and career goals. Choose to study a language as an elective or as a sequence of units within your degree.
Cultural context
Studying a language at Deakin also means exploring the social, cultural, economic and historical aspects of the countries where it's spoken. This approach helps you develop knowledge and skills valued by employers.
Beginner to advanced
Our language courses cater to different experience levels, from beginners with no prior language study to intermediate learners looking to build their skills. An advanced stream is also available for Chinese.
Top professional roles for language graduates
Language skills in Arabic, Chinese, Indonesian and Spanish are highly sought after in sectors including:
- education
- government, including immigration
- health and social services
- intelligence and defence
- international commerce and trade
- media
- multicultural associations
- tourism
- translation services.
There are international opportunities ranging from 2 weeks to 12 months. Be it big or small, take the chance to study overseas.
Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Arts (International Studies)
Graduate with an employment advantage
Deakin offers a comprehensive, career-focused education experience. Nine out of 10 Deakin graduates get a job within four to six months.
World-class teaching experiences
Deakin’s industry-shaped courses and practical, real-world approach to learning will prepare you to be adaptable across the jobs of the future.
Start your global learning
Intern, study, tour or explore. Immerse yourself in a different culture and enhance your language and employability skills with a Deakin overseas program. Many programs offer university credit and grant funding.
Immersive international experiences
Deakin offers global opportunities in more than 44 countries. You could take part in a trimester-long program in Indonesia, explore Ho Chi Minh City through the USSH Vietnam Internship or undertake an internship in Tokyo.
Want to explore more?
Learn more about why studying a language at Deakin is the right choice.
Want to explore the world? Choose the right degree
Discover how to choose the right degree to explore the world, with insights from Deakin University on aligning your passions with global opportunities.
Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our University rankings page.
*Australian Bureau of Statistics Census 2021
Contact us
Got a question about Deakin's language courses? Our course advisers are available to speak to you about your study options and how we can help you further your career.
Domestic students
1800 693 888
Enquire online
International students
+61 3 9918 9188
Enquire online
