Students who declare the Asian Languages and Culture major will be able to understand the variation within and similarities across Asia with reference to historical and contemporary cultural connections (people, societies, languages, literature, religions, and cultural genres). Students may opt to declare a named option in East Asian, South Asia, or Southeast Asian studies. Students who opt for a regional grounding will base their area studies and language courses around that particular region.
Students may study any of the languages we offer during the academic year: Chinese, Filipino, Hindi-Urdu, Hmong, Indonesian, Japanese, Korean, Persia, Thai, Tibetan or Vietnamese.
The most up-to-date information about the ALC major and named options are made to the Guide: Requirements and Learning Outcomes
Background Questionnaire
If you are a student with prior experience in an Asian language (e.g., self-taught, learned in elementary, middle or high school, or learned from family, relatives or friends, etc.) please fill out this questionnaire in order to receive appropriate advising or guidance about placement into language classes at UW.
Placement Tests
The department requires that students who are new to our program take a placement test before enrolling in a language course beyond the first semester level. Our department administers placement test throughout the year. Please review the placement test information.
Studying Abroad
Students are encouraged to explore opportunities to use the language outside of the classroom, especially in internships or study abroad programs. Credits earned while on an approved UW-Madison program may count towards the major requirements.
Please refer to this Major Advising Page for Asian Languages & Cultures majors. This information is geared towards helping students consider how study abroad can fit into major course planning.
Declaring the Major
If you have questions about our programs and are exploring your options; or you are ready to declare a major please make an appointment to meet with Rachel Weiss, Undergraduate Advisor:
Rachel Weiss
E-mail: rweiss@wisc.edu
Office: 1244 Van Hise Hall
Schedule: advising appointment via Starfish.
Phone: (608) 890-0138