The Special Language Program (SLP) offers Stanford students the opportunity to study a Less Commonly Taught Language (LCTL). Students enroll in SLP courses because of their interest in a geographic area and its people, or in order to acquire valuable skills for field work and study abroad during their academic career. Others study a LCTL to fulfill their requirements or to obtain a minor in Modern Languages. Many of the students who take LCTL are connected to it through heritage and they find it a unique opportunity to enhance their knowledge.

SLP classes are usually small and they offer opportunities for individualized learning. Instructors create specialized, proficiency-based curriculum and facilitate self-paced instruction with a learner-centered approach. Students learn how to break linguistic and cultural barriers through opportunities for active learning, the use of authentic text and materials, and innovative uses of technology.

In normal times, students are able to request a language by filling out the Request a Language Form. Currently, however, we are not able to accommodate requests to add any languages that are not already being taught at Stanford. This is in effect until further notice. We hope to be able to accommodate such requests in future academic years.

Languages Offered for Academic Year 2020-2021: