World Languages and Cultures
Welcome to the Department of World Languages and Cultures
Bienvenue, ようこそ, добро пожаловать, 欢迎, Bienvenides, Willkommen, 환영!
Our programs emphasize cultural competencies and offer courses on topics like translation, global popular culture, cross-cultural communication, and sociolinguistics. We value connections with local and global communities, focusing on practical skills and hands-on learning. Whether volunteering at Deaf community events, providing Spanish translation services, or mentoring foreign exchange students, you'll build language and cultural expertise both on and off campus. A world language degree enhances your communication skills, expands career opportunities, and gives you a competitive edge in the global market. Join us and build a more interconnected world!
Questions? Contact Us.
World Languages and Cultures
About our Department
Our department offers degrees in American Sign Language, French, Japanese, Korean, Russian, and Spanish. Partnered with the Office of International Studies and Programs, you will have the opportunity to study abroad. We encourage all our students to reach out and build relationships with the global community, on and off campus.
About Us
Learn more about our department
Undergraduate Programs
Explore World Languages and Cultures programs and resources
Student Resources
Learn about student resources and opportunities
¿Ya sabes español? ¡Descubre los programas que te interesan!
Do you already know Spanish? Find out about our degree programs and certificates.
News and Events
Stay current with our news and events
CWU's World Languages Day
Find updates about CWU's World Languages Day and learn what it is.
Explore our Degrees
Discover a range of programs designed to inspire creativity, build expertise, and prepare you for a successful career in World Languages and Cultures.
Get to Know Us
ASL DeafNation Expo
At CWU, you’ll be part of the only Deaf and Sign Language Studies program of its kind in Washington State—designed to prepare the next generation of ASL leaders. Through hands-on community service learning, you’ll have the chance to connect with and contribute to the local Deaf community. Whether you're attending Deaf expos, hosting campus events, or helping make Halloween memorable for Deaf and Hard of Hearing children, you'll find countless ways to get involved.
Photo: Deaf and Sign Language Studies students and ASL Club members at DeafNation Expo, October 2024.
WA Japanese Speech Contest
Congratulations to our Japanese language students! CWU’s First Year Japanese class brought home multiple awards from the Washington State Japanese Speech Contest—including a first-place win by Calina Lin! This annual event gives you a chance to showcase your Japanese speaking skills, build confidence, and receive feedback from experienced judges.
Photo: Calina Lin with her First Place Prize.
Study Abroad in Colombia
Study abroad is a powerful part of immersive, hands-on language learning—and in CWU’s Spanish program, you can begin as early as your first year. Through virtual exchanges, you’ll connect with peers in Colombia as part of Dr. Nathalie Kasselis’ innovative study abroad and e-learning project. These early connections build toward a life-changing, faculty-led study abroad trip to the land of magical realism—Colombia! Under Dr. Kasselis’ leadership, study abroad becomes a truly transformational experience.
Photo: Dr. Kasselis and CWU Spanish students touring a coffee plantation in Medellín, Colombia, Spring 2024.