Get started with language study

Students in Mariann Caprino’s Italian 111 class host a café activity in Clemens Hall in February 2026. The students played a game at the tables, while other brought coffees and snacks from the café table.

Start your language journey at UB

Whether you are beginning a new language or building on previous study, UB’s introductory programs in French, Italian and Spanish help you develop communication skills and cultural understanding from your first semester. Courses move from beginner to intermediate levels and prepare you for advanced language study, study abroad and majors or minors in Romance Languages.

All language courses are taught primarily in the target language. This immersive approach helps you build real communication skills from the start.

Where should you start?

New to the language

If you have never studied the language before, register for the first course in the sequence.

  • French: FR 111 
  • Italian: ITA 111 
  • Spanish: SPA 111

These courses begin the two semester introductory sequence (111–112).

 

Studied the language before

If you have previous experience with the language, like in high school, you should complete the placement process to determine the appropriate course level.

If you received language credit from another college or university, check to confirm how your courses transfer before registering.

 

What language classes are like

Language learning at UB focuses on communication and cultural understanding.

In most courses you will:

  • hear and use the language every class
  • practice speaking, writing, reading and listening
  • learn grammar through real communication
  • explore cultures connected to the language

You are not expected to understand everything immediately. Instructors use context, visuals and guided practice to help you build comprehension and confidence.

For any further information on placement, please see the placement information form

Take the next step

Learning another language can change how you experience the world and how the world opens up to you. Whether you want to study abroad, connect with new communities or build skills that travel across careers, RLL can help you get started.