Welcome to the University of Arizona Language Training Center
A renowned resource for second language acquisition and culture studies
The University of Arizona is internationally renowned for research in teaching second language acquisition along with globally aware language and culture studies. The University has a long history of partnering with the US government for language training, and for housing multiple DLNSEO-funded and other centers and programs that support language and culture training for various types of learners. The Language Training Centers Program is an initiative sponsored by the Defense Language and National Security Education Office and administered by the Institute of International Education. All DLNSEO-funded courses and materials are free to military and selected US government civilian linguists.
Participants in our intensive language courses improve their language proficiency and advance their understanding of the target culture via outcomes-based courses. LTC courses are offered in multiple modalities, including face-to-face, virtual, and hybrid sessions. Tailored to units’ and learners’ needs, SLTE courses primarily offer 160 hours of training in critical languages from all over the globe at levels ranging from ILR 1 to 4.
The LTC also offers yearlong Language Maintenance courses designed to sustain and strengthen proficiency between intensive training opportunities. Supporting learners at ILR levels 2 and 3, these courses combine flexible, asynchronous coursework with dedicated instructor support and required quarterly virtual meetings. Participants dedicate approximately two hours per week to structured activities using authentic reading and listening materials, vocabulary development, and oral and written responses. Instructor feedback and pre- and post-course assessments support continued development and help learners monitor their progress. Through consistent engagement with language and culture, the program helps prevent proficiency decline, establish effective study habits, and prepare personnel for future SLTE courses and operational language requirements.
In partnership with the University of Arizona’s Center for English as a Second Language (CESL), the LTC also supports personnel by providing high-quality foreign language pedagogical training. Personnel who complete our Foreign Language Teacher Training courses are well equipped to serve as certified Language Instructors, with a solid understanding of best practices for training and supporting lower-proficiency personnel engaged in language study.
SLTE Language | Dates | Modalities(in-person/hybrid/online) | Level | Enrollment Status |
| Arabic (MSA) | Feb 8 - Mar 9 2027 Apr 15 - May 14 2027 | TBD In Person (UofA) | 2-3 2/2/2 | Enrolling 7 Availible |
| Chinese (M) | Jan 6 - Feb 4 2027 | TBD | 2-3 | Enrolling |
| Korean | Feb 8 - Mar 9 2027 | In Person (UofA) | 2/2/2 | 7 Availible |
| Russian | Oct 19 - Nov 13 2026 Mar 15 - Apr 13 2027 | In Person (Davis Monthan) TBD | sub-pro 2-3 | 4 Availible Enrolling |
| Spanish | Oct 15 - Nov 13 2026 Apr 15 - May 14 2027 | TBD TBD | 2-3 2-3 | Enrolling Enrolling |
| Farsi | Jan 6 - Feb 4 2027 Mar 15 - Apr 13 2027 | TBD TBD | 2-3 2-3 | Enrolling Enrolling |
ESL (English as a Second Language) | Mar 15 - Apr 13 2027 | TBD | 2-3 | Enrolling |