Language courses

In Pacific and Asian Studies, we approach language-learning as a transformative experience that entails gaining both a practical competence in a new language and a reflexive awareness of the social, cultural and historical particularity of one’s given language(s);

When you study languages in PAAS, you'll learn new ways of thinking about yourself and the world around you; you'll learn new ways of expressing yourself with clarity, civility, and respect; and you'll experience new ways of learning from the people whom you'll meet.

Our language instructors are dedicated, patient, and caring. Some of the best instructors at UVic will guide and inspire you to develop your skills in learning a new language, every step of the way.

Your studies will focus on speaking, listening, reading, and writing, to give you the foundational skills you'll need to be successful.

Even though these courses teach you the basics, that doesn't mean you will only be able to express basic ideas! You'll be able to talk about yourself, your family and friends, your likes, studies, and your goals - and, more importantly, you'll be able to listen as new friends tell you about their lives, studies, and experiences.

In our more advanced classes, you’ll learn to write essays about the subjects that matter to you, and to read short stories and news articles in their original languages. Not only that, but you'll be able to motivate yourself to meet the new challenges you'll be excited to accomplish.

PAAS also offers the opportunity to participate in exchanges, language-immersion field schools, and other study-abroad opportunities. Each one of these will bring you experiences you've never imagined!

We currently offer courses in Four Asian languages: Chinese, Korean, Indonesian, and Japanese. 

We believe that starting with the appropriate level is the key to success in all language studies. If you do not know which course to start with, please contact our language coordinator for each language (Chinese, Korean, Indonesian, and Japanese). You can also contact our program advisors for any other questions about the language programs.