Languages & Linguistics Department

Languages & linguistics programs 

CapU offers a number of certificate programs in First Nations languages and culture.

We also offer a broad selection of courses in multiple languages, as well as linguistics courses. 

First Nations language & culture certificate programs

Our identity is deeply rooted in the language we speak. It’s how we connect, communicate and interact with others.

Our First Nations certificate programs will help you gain an understanding of the importance of linguistic diversity and the factors that have led to the endangerment of First Nations languages across Canada.

The programs are designed to encourage fluency within BC communities and give current and future teachers training to become language experts, be knowledge keepers and protect the heritage.

Courses are offered within First Nations communities, allowing you to continue your jobs, raise your children and stay connected to your culture while studying at night. For many, it’s about reclaiming your identity and language.

• Lil'wat Nation Language & Culture Certificate
• Sechelt Nation Language and Culture Certificate

Related programs

Language and linguistics courses can be applied to many CapU programs, including:  

• Associate of Arts Degree
• Bachelor of Arts with a Major in Interdisciplinary Studies

Languages and linguistics courses

Whether you’re curious about a new language or would like to enhance your skills, our broad range of courses cater to all levels. Many of our courses transfer widely to other BC universities and colleges.  Please check the BC Transfer Guide for further information.

• Chinese
• First Nation languages
• French
• Japanese
• Linguistics
• Spanish

Chinese - Mandarin

Mandarin is the world’s largest linguistic community, totalling one billion speakers. Our beginner courses are an excellent bridge into using the Pinyin system of pronunciation in Mainland China. They start with basic tones and pronunciation to prepare students to speak the language. They also teach basic grammar and the writing of about 150 Chinese characters.

Content focuses on language acquisition and conversation practice, with an aligned introduction to Chinese culture and social etiquette. Communication skills are also introduced with presentations and group projects during the learning process.

Which course to select?

We offer a range of courses, beginning from absolute beginner up to university level. Use our Chinese Registration Flow Chart to determine which course best suits your abilities.   

• CHIN 100 Beginner Chinese Language and Culture I
• CHIN 101 Beginner Chinese Language and Culture II
• CHIN 200 Intermediate Chinese Language and Culture I
• CHIN 201 Intermediate Chinese Language and Culture II
• CHIN 300 Advanced Chinese I

First Nation languages

• FNLG 100 The Squamish Language I
• FNLG 101 The Squamish Language II (Skwxwu7mesh Snichim II)
• FNLG 102 The Lil'wat Language I (Ucwalmícwts I)
• FNLG 103 The Lil'wat Language II (Ucwalmicwts II)
• FNLG 104 The Lil’wat Language III (Ucwalmícwts III)
• FNLG 105 The Lil'wat Language IV (Ucwalmícwts IV)
• FNLG 106 The Squamish Language III (Skwxwu7mesh Snichim III)
• FNLG 107 The Squamish Language IV (Skwxwu7mesh Snichim IV)
• FNLG 108 The Sechelt Language I (Sháshíshálhem I)
• FNLG 109 The Sechelt Language II (Sháshíshálhem II)
• FNLG 110 The Sechelt Language III (Sháshíshálhem III)
• FNLG 111 The Sechelt Language IV (Sháshíshálhem IV)

French

French is one of two official languages in Canada, is the principal language of 29 other countries and is spoken by more than 220 million people over five continents.  French is also a working and official language of the United Nations, the European Union, UNESCO, NATO, the International Olympic Committee, the International Red Cross and international courts. 

As such, proficiency in French is essential for anyone considering a career in Canadian governments, international organizations, business and law. French is also a central language of Western culture and useful for those with a career or personal interest in fashion, music, architecture, literature, film and the culinary arts.

For beginners who have no knowledge of French, courses include an intensive introduction to the language, enhanced by computer practice and an introduction to francophone culture.

If you’re interested in advancing your high school-level knowledge of the language, courses will build on your skills through written and oral exercises, compositions and appreciation of francophone culture and literature.

Which course to select?

To determine which level of French to register in, please consult either the French Registration Flow Chart (for general students) or the French IMMERSION Registration Flow Chart (for former French Immersion students). 

• If you are an absolute beginner or have never completed any French course beyond Grade 9, register in FREN 100
• If you have completed grade 11 French, register in FREN 150
• If you have completed grade 12 core French (and were not in secondary immersion), register in FREN 204 or FREN 205
• If you were an immersion student at the secondary level, register in FREN 270 or FREN 271
• If you have completed FREN 204/205 (formerly known as 170/171) or FREN 270/271 and would like to work specifically on your speaking ability, register in FREN 215

• FREN 100 Beginner French Language and Culture I
• FREN 101 Beginner French Language and Culture II
• FREN 150 Progression in French Language and Culture
• FREN 204 Intermediate French Language and Culture I
• FREN 205 Intermediate French Language and Culture II
• FREN 215 Oral French Practice
• FREN 219 Intermediate Composition
• FREN 270 Advanced French Language and Culture I
• FREN 271 Advanced French Language and Culture II
• FREN 315 Studies in French through Cinema
• FREN 330 Quebecois Literature and Culture

Japanese

Japan boasts one of the largest economies in the world. Learning to speak Japanese can help improve your job prospects and open the door to a fascinating world.

Japan has a lively popular culture that has influenced everything from fashion, music and movies to video games. It’s a country of innovation, whether it’s computers, robotics, cars or appliances. While studying the language, you’ll also gain insight into the Japanese lifestyle.

Beginner courses offer an introduction to modern Japanese through the study of vocabulary, grammar and culture. You’ll learn the Japanese writing systems (hiragana and katakana) as well as kanji (Chinese characters).

Other courses focus on practical Japanese to develop real-world skills for professional and business contexts.

Which course to select?

Students with Japanese 9, 10 or Beginners 11 credit should register in JAPN 100. Students with Japanese 11 credit should register in JAPN 101, not JAPN 100. Students with Japanese 12 credit with a minimum grade of C should register in JAPN 200.

Please consult the Japanese Registration Flow Chart for clarification or contact us for further information.

• JAPN 100 Beginner Japanese Language and Culture I
• JAPN 101 Beginner Japanese Language and Culture II
• JAPN 200 Intermediate Japanese Language and Culture I
• JAPN 201 Intermediate Japanese Language and Culture II
• JAPN 315 Practical Japanese for the Professions I

Linguistics

Would you like to know six ways to say “we” in Fijian, the myth of the hundred words for snow in Inuktitut, or how to make Zulu clicks? 

We offer a range of first-year courses including an introduction to grammatical description and analysis (LING100) and practical phonetics (LING102). Learn about the language and culture of BC’s First Nations (LING206) and the diversity and endangerment of indigenous languages of the world (LING208).

We also offer a course on English etymology (LING202), where we look at the origin of English in the Proto-Indo-European language family and the Latin, Greek and French words that we have borrowed. Truly, “The Wonder of Words!”

• LING 100 Introduction to General Linguistics: Language Structure
• LING 101 Introduction to General Linguistics: Language Use
• LING 102 Introduction to Practical Phonetics
• LING 200 Introduction to Phonology
• LING 201 Introduction to Syntax
• LING 202 Explorations in English Etymology
• LING 206 First Nations Languages of British Columbia
• LING 208 Indigenous Languages and Their Speakers

Spanish

Spanish is the second most common language in the world, used by more than 420 million people and listed as an official language in 21 countries. In today’s global economy, an ability to speak Spanish helps your employment prospects.

It’s also beneficial when travelling. From Spain to Mexico, Central and South America and the Caribbean, you will better understand and enjoy local cultures.

Which course to select?

If you have little or no knowledge of the Spanish language, register for SPAN 100. Students with Spanish 11 credit should register in SPAN 101, and students with Spanish 12 credit should register in SPAN 200. For assistance in determining which level of Spanish to register in, please check out the Spanish Registration Flow Chart.  

For beginning students, the sequence of courses is:

• Spanish 100
• Spanish 101
• Spanish 200
• Spanish 201

Native speakers of Spanish are not eligible for registration in first-year Spanish courses. If they wish to take second-year courses in Spanish, they must consult with the Spanish instructor prior to enrolment.

Students with a competence in the language beyond the level of the course in which they are registered will be required to withdraw. Students who are not sure of their language level should contact an instructor.

• SPAN 100 Beginner Spanish Language and Culture I
• SPAN 101 Beginner Spanish Language and Culture II
• SPAN 200 Intermediate Spanish Language and Culture I
• SPAN 201 Intermediate Spanish Language and Culture II
• SPAN 300 Advanced Spanish I

Languages & linguistics programs 

CapU offers a number of certificate programs in First Nations languages and culture.

We also offer a broad selection of courses in multiple languages, as well as linguistics courses. 

First Nations language & culture certificate programs

Our identity is deeply rooted in the language we speak. It’s how we connect, communicate and interact with others.

Our First Nations certificate programs will help you gain an understanding of the importance of linguistic diversity and the factors that have led to the endangerment of First Nations languages across Canada.

The programs are designed to encourage fluency within BC communities and give current and future teachers training to become language experts, be knowledge keepers and protect the heritage.

Courses are offered within First Nations communities, allowing you to continue your jobs, raise your children and stay connected to your culture while studying at night. For many, it’s about reclaiming your identity and language.

• Lil'wat Nation Language & Culture Certificate
• Sechelt Nation Language and Culture Certificate

Related programs

Language and linguistics courses can be applied to many CapU programs, including:  

• Associate of Arts Degree
• Bachelor of Arts with a Major in Interdisciplinary Studies

Languages and linguistics courses

Whether you’re curious about a new language or would like to enhance your skills, our broad range of courses cater to all levels. Many of our courses transfer widely to other BC universities and colleges.  Please check the BC Transfer Guide for further information.

• Chinese
• First Nation languages
• French
• Japanese
• Linguistics
• Spanish

Chinese - Mandarin

Mandarin is the world’s largest linguistic community, totalling one billion speakers. Our beginner courses are an excellent bridge into using the Pinyin system of pronunciation in Mainland China. They start with basic tones and pronunciation to prepare students to speak the language. They also teach basic grammar and the writing of about 150 Chinese characters.

Content focuses on language acquisition and conversation practice, with an aligned introduction to Chinese culture and social etiquette. Communication skills are also introduced with presentations and group projects during the learning process.

Which course to select?

We offer a range of courses, beginning from absolute beginner up to university level. Use our Chinese Registration Flow Chart to determine which course best suits your abilities.   

• CHIN 100 Beginner Chinese Language and Culture I
• CHIN 101 Beginner Chinese Language and Culture II
• CHIN 200 Intermediate Chinese Language and Culture I
• CHIN 201 Intermediate Chinese Language and Culture II
• CHIN 300 Advanced Chinese I

First Nation languages

• FNLG 100 The Squamish Language I
• FNLG 101 The Squamish Language II (Skwxwu7mesh Snichim II)
• FNLG 102 The Lil'wat Language I (Ucwalmícwts I)
• FNLG 103 The Lil'wat Language II (Ucwalmicwts II)
• FNLG 104 The Lil’wat Language III (Ucwalmícwts III)
• FNLG 105 The Lil'wat Language IV (Ucwalmícwts IV)
• FNLG 106 The Squamish Language III (Skwxwu7mesh Snichim III)
• FNLG 107 The Squamish Language IV (Skwxwu7mesh Snichim IV)
• FNLG 108 The Sechelt Language I (Sháshíshálhem I)
• FNLG 109 The Sechelt Language II (Sháshíshálhem II)
• FNLG 110 The Sechelt Language III (Sháshíshálhem III)
• FNLG 111 The Sechelt Language IV (Sháshíshálhem IV)

French

French is one of two official languages in Canada, is the principal language of 29 other countries and is spoken by more than 220 million people over five continents.  French is also a working and official language of the United Nations, the European Union, UNESCO, NATO, the International Olympic Committee, the International Red Cross and international courts. 

As such, proficiency in French is essential for anyone considering a career in Canadian governments, international organizations, business and law. French is also a central language of Western culture and useful for those with a career or personal interest in fashion, music, architecture, literature, film and the culinary arts.

For beginners who have no knowledge of French, courses include an intensive introduction to the language, enhanced by computer practice and an introduction to francophone culture.

If you’re interested in advancing your high school-level knowledge of the language, courses will build on your skills through written and oral exercises, compositions and appreciation of francophone culture and literature.

Which course to select?

To determine which level of French to register in, please consult either the French Registration Flow Chart (for general students) or the French IMMERSION Registration Flow Chart (for former French Immersion students). 

• If you are an absolute beginner or have never completed any French course beyond Grade 9, register in FREN 100
• If you have completed grade 11 French, register in FREN 150
• If you have completed grade 12 core French (and were not in secondary immersion), register in FREN 204 or FREN 205
• If you were an immersion student at the secondary level, register in FREN 270 or FREN 271
• If you have completed FREN 204/205 (formerly known as 170/171) or FREN 270/271 and would like to work specifically on your speaking ability, register in FREN 215

• FREN 100 Beginner French Language and Culture I
• FREN 101 Beginner French Language and Culture II
• FREN 150 Progression in French Language and Culture
• FREN 204 Intermediate French Language and Culture I
• FREN 205 Intermediate French Language and Culture II
• FREN 215 Oral French Practice
• FREN 219 Intermediate Composition
• FREN 270 Advanced French Language and Culture I
• FREN 271 Advanced French Language and Culture II
• FREN 315 Studies in French through Cinema
• FREN 330 Quebecois Literature and Culture

Japanese

Japan boasts one of the largest economies in the world. Learning to speak Japanese can help improve your job prospects and open the door to a fascinating world.

Japan has a lively popular culture that has influenced everything from fashion, music and movies to video games. It’s a country of innovation, whether it’s computers, robotics, cars or appliances. While studying the language, you’ll also gain insight into the Japanese lifestyle.

Beginner courses offer an introduction to modern Japanese through the study of vocabulary, grammar and culture. You’ll learn the Japanese writing systems (hiragana and katakana) as well as kanji (Chinese characters).

Other courses focus on practical Japanese to develop real-world skills for professional and business contexts.

Which course to select?

Students with Japanese 9, 10 or Beginners 11 credit should register in JAPN 100. Students with Japanese 11 credit should register in JAPN 101, not JAPN 100. Students with Japanese 12 credit with a minimum grade of C should register in JAPN 200.

Please consult the Japanese Registration Flow Chart for clarification or contact us for further information.

• JAPN 100 Beginner Japanese Language and Culture I
• JAPN 101 Beginner Japanese Language and Culture II
• JAPN 200 Intermediate Japanese Language and Culture I
• JAPN 201 Intermediate Japanese Language and Culture II
• JAPN 315 Practical Japanese for the Professions I

Linguistics

Would you like to know six ways to say “we” in Fijian, the myth of the hundred words for snow in Inuktitut, or how to make Zulu clicks? 

We offer a range of first-year courses including an introduction to grammatical description and analysis (LING100) and practical phonetics (LING102). Learn about the language and culture of BC’s First Nations (LING206) and the diversity and endangerment of indigenous languages of the world (LING208).

We also offer a course on English etymology (LING202), where we look at the origin of English in the Proto-Indo-European language family and the Latin, Greek and French words that we have borrowed. Truly, “The Wonder of Words!”

• LING 100 Introduction to General Linguistics: Language Structure
• LING 101 Introduction to General Linguistics: Language Use
• LING 102 Introduction to Practical Phonetics
• LING 200 Introduction to Phonology
• LING 201 Introduction to Syntax
• LING 202 Explorations in English Etymology
• LING 206 First Nations Languages of British Columbia
• LING 208 Indigenous Languages and Their Speakers

Spanish

Spanish is the second most common language in the world, used by more than 420 million people and listed as an official language in 21 countries. In today’s global economy, an ability to speak Spanish helps your employment prospects.

It’s also beneficial when travelling. From Spain to Mexico, Central and South America and the Caribbean, you will better understand and enjoy local cultures.

Which course to select?

If you have little or no knowledge of the Spanish language, register for SPAN 100. Students with Spanish 11 credit should register in SPAN 101, and students with Spanish 12 credit should register in SPAN 200. For assistance in determining which level of Spanish to register in, please check out the Spanish Registration Flow Chart.  

For beginning students, the sequence of courses is:

• Spanish 100
• Spanish 101
• Spanish 200
• Spanish 201

Native speakers of Spanish are not eligible for registration in first-year Spanish courses. If they wish to take second-year courses in Spanish, they must consult with the Spanish instructor prior to enrolment.

Students with a competence in the language beyond the level of the course in which they are registered will be required to withdraw. Students who are not sure of their language level should contact an instructor.

• SPAN 100 Beginner Spanish Language and Culture I
• SPAN 101 Beginner Spanish Language and Culture II
• SPAN 200 Intermediate Spanish Language and Culture I
• SPAN 201 Intermediate Spanish Language and Culture II
• SPAN 300 Advanced Spanish I

Student opportunities

How would you like to hone your language skills and enrich your education while teaching English overseas? There are many opportunities available to CapU’s language students, from exchange programs to awards you might be eligible for.

Further down the page you’ll also find some excellent student resources, with a multitude of links to help you make the most of your language education.

Work abroad or across Canada

Awards 

The following awards are available to CapU language students. Visit our Scholarships, Bursaries & Awards page to apply.

Student resources

The Language Resource Centre is a space where students can work independently on assignments, meet with others to complete group assignments or practice conversation skills with a native speaker.