The Department of Languages, Cultures & Applied Linguistics (LCAL) offers a wide range of academic opportunities for learners at every stage — whether you're an undergraduate or a graduate student, or a lifelong learner exploring languages from afar. Our programs combine innovative teaching, immersive experiences and global perspectives that prepare you to thrive in today's interconnected world.
Degree Programs
Undergraduate Programs
Discover the power of language and culture through our undergraduate majors, minors and concentrations. Students can pursue in-depth study in nine different language and culture studies while developing interdisciplinary skills that complement fields such as business, international relations, computer science and the arts.
Graduate Programs
Our graduate programs are designed for advanced study in applied linguistics, second language acquisition, global communication, translation and more. With small cohorts and close faculty mentorship, graduate students engage in research, professional practice and cross-disciplinary collaboration that open pathways to academic, nonprofit and industry careers.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR Graduate Programs
Experiential Learning Opportunities
Study Abroad
Take your learning beyond the classroom through study abroad. LCAL students immerse themselves in language and culture firsthand, gaining new perspectives, improving fluency and building confidence while living and studying in international communities.
Online Programs
Online Language Programs
For learners and instructors outside of Carnegie Mellon University, LCAL offers online language courses designed for flexibilty and accessibility. Non-CMU students can build language skills, connect with expert instructors and experience LCAL's innovative approach to language learning from anywhere in the world.
Language Program Administration (LPA) Professional Certificate
The LPA Certificate is a one-year, fully online program designed for current and aspiring language educators, supervisors and program directors. The program focuses on language teaching, supervision, curriculum development and program administration, providing professionals with the tools and credentials to lead in the field of language education.
LCAL Research Spaces & Labs
Center for Black European Studies & the Atlantic (CBESA)
CBESA is an interdisciplinary research hub dedicated to the collection, production, restoration, dissemination and promotion of scholarship on people of African descent in Europe.
The Kenner Room
The Kenner Room is a dynamic space dedicated to fostering immersive learning, innovative teaching and groundbreaking research at Carnegie Mellon University.
Language Acquisition, Processing and Pedagogy (LAPP) Lab
The LAPP Lab takes an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the mechanisms and architecture underlying language acquisition and processing. Led by Seth Wiener, their work bridges linguistics, psychology, speech science and education and aims to contribute real-world pedagogical innovations that improve language teaching and learning.
LCAL Studio and Humanities Commons
The LCAL Studio serves as a gathering space for student groups and classes and also hosts a multimedia workspace and rental equipment.