Discover how Amy Domaszek shapes UW–Madison continuing education courses to deliver high-quality leadership, AI and communication skills for today’s workplace.
Languages
Explore different cultures and ways of thinking as you learn to communicate in a new language. Gain skills for conversation, travel or business with continuing education courses designed to fit your schedule.
We offer high-level language and cultural instruction to adult learners (ages 18 and over) in online and in-person courses taught by leading language experts from UW–Madison and across the region.
French
French is spoken on five continents and opens a world of travel and international business. We offer the region’s most comprehensive continuing education French language program, featuring four levels, pronunciation courses and occasional advanced conversation courses on literature and culture.
German
Half of Wisconsin residents have German ancestry, so why not reconnect with the past? Our German program features three levels, with occasional cultural courses.
Italian
The Italian language gives you access to Italy’s rich history and one of the top European economies. Our program features three levels.
Portuguese
Portuguese is the official language in nine countries and one of the top five languages for doing business globally. Our program includes two levels; courses are offered twice a year.
Reading & Translation Courses
Dive into the nuts and bolts of how to read in your target language and translate accurately to English so that you can confidently conduct academic research or read for pleasure in French, German, Italian or Spanish.
Spanish
Spanish is one of the most spoken languages in the world. We offer the region’s most comprehensive continuing education Spanish language program, featuring multiple levels of language instruction, from Spanish 0 (for the true beginner) to advanced conversation courses, along with pronunciation, writing, literature and culture classes. Custom courses are also available.
Featured training programs
Learn more about the certificate →Business Spanish Certificate Program
In 4 months, greatly improve your professional proficiency in Spanish and gain the cultural knowledge you need to conduct business with partners in Spain and Latin America.
Get ready for knowledge exams →Language Reading Knowledge Exam
These translation exams test reading knowledge of French, German, Italian or Spanish and meet the requirements of UW–Madison graduate programs.
Explore custom training programs →Personalized Spanish
Do you need Spanish training tailored to your schedule and needs? We can offer you the flexibility and professionalism you need to succeed.
Upcoming languages classes
- Spanish Writing: Brush Up the Basics
- Spanish Writing: Brush Up the Past Tenses
- Personalized Spanish Course
- Basics of French Pronunciation
- Spanish 0
- Business Spanish Certificate Program
- Spanish for Reading and Translation: Comprehensive
- Language Reading Knowledge Exam
- Spanish for Reading and Translation: Basic
- Italian for Reading and Translation
- German for Reading and Translation
- French for Reading and Translation
The value of our Continuing Studies language program at UW Madison
Find out why our online Language program is one of the best in the country!
Language resources
- Take a Spanish placement test to discover the right level for you
- Take the You Know More French Than You Think You Do quiz
From the blog
Learn how Liz Murphy is expanding UW–Madison’s language programs and helping adult learners grow through flexible, inclusive language learning.
Explore Mirta Pagnucci’s journey from ESL student to UW–Madison instructor. Learn how continuing education fosters community through immersive language study.
Language learning is more than just a hobby. It’s a lifelong passion for our students.
Our team
Meet our dedicated team of lifelong learning professionals, passionate about empowering individuals on their educational journeys. Whether you’re seeking skill enhancement, career advancement, or personal enrichment, our team ensures you receive the support and inspiration you need to thrive in an ever-evolving world. Contact us at online@dcs.wisc.edu
Sage Goellner
Associate professor of French and continuing education
Christopher Moore
Learning Experience Coordinator
Liz Murphy
Program Developer, Languages
Silvana Benzoni
Spanish Instructor
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