Languages (BA)

Become fluent in multiple languages and develop a deep understanding of the cultures, perspectives and connections that language makes possible in Wilfrid Laurier University's Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Languages. Build genuine multilingual fluency alongside strong communication, analytical and cross-cultural skills through creative projects and innovative teaching methods. 
 
Graduate with the language abilities and global awareness to compete in an increasingly interconnected and multicultural world and explore opportunities across Canada and worldwide. Pursue careers in education, law, advertising or marketing, project coordination, journalism, script writing, government and beyond. 

Program Details

Discover what makes this Laurier program unique and how you'll gain real-world experience.

Why Should I Choose Languages?

Your future professors work hard to make sure your academic experience is current, complete and designed to open doors in your career. Here are a few things you can count on:

  • Build Language Fluency Through Global Opportunities
    Achieve fluency in French and Spanish, and choose a third language such as Arabic, German or Italian. Enhance your proficiency further through optional international exchange opportunities in your third or fourth year.
  • Expansive Education in Languages
    In addition to gaining fluency in multiple languages, study in courses that explore the social and cultural elements of languages, such as literature, film, media and the news, art and more. 
  • Pathway to an MBA
    Begin your Languages program with a conditional offer to join our full-time Master of Business Administration program after graduation. Complete your BA in four years, followed by one year in the MBA.
  • Pathway to Grad Studies
    Start your undergraduate Languages (BA) with a conditional offer of admission to the MA in Cultural Analysis and Social Theory (CAST) at Laurier already in hand. Benefit from mentoring throughout your undergraduate studies to gain the experience and background needed to succeed at your graduate studies.

How Will I Gain Real-World Experience?

Here are just a few of our students’ favourite ways to apply their learning in the real world throughout their degree (check out the Experience Guide for even more):

  • Apply to Co-op
    Honours Languages students can apply for our accredited co-op program to gain valuable industry experience and develop career-specific skills through three four-month work terms.
  • Study Abroad
    Enhance your degree with exciting study abroad opportunities. Travel to France, Italy or Spain in your third year with courses like MI288: Mediterranean Travels. Immerse yourself in Montréal’s vibrant Francophone culture with FR288: Cultural and Literary Representations of Montréal. Improve your Spanish fluency in Salamanca with SP288: Study Abroad.
  • Meet Fellow Students
    Develop leadership skills and engage in meaningful volunteer work in student clubs such as the Laurier French Club, Spanish Club, German Culture Society or AIESEC Laurier.
  • Tandem Language Program
    Connect with international students through the Tandem Language Program on campus. Engage in conversation practice to enhance your language skills and build cross-cultural connections.

Courses and Program Enhancements

Explore a sample weekly schedule to see what your day-to-day might look like in this program.

What Courses Will I Take? 

Get a glimpse of what you will study throughout your degree. See what your first-year classes will look like through sample courses and start exploring what your upper academic years can offer.

How Can I Enhance My Degree? 

Explore a variety of courses, specializations and pathway options that let you shape your degree around your unique interests and goals. Find out how you can customize your experience and prepare for what’s next. 

Admissions

  • Format: full time or part time
  • Duration: four years
  • Start: September (fall term) or January (winter term)

Career Options

It’s not only about the journey; it’s about the destination. Let us help you get to where you’re going.

What Jobs Can I Get After Graduation?

Our Languages (BA) graduates go on to a wide range of rewarding careers.

Here are just a few examples:

  • bilingual officer
  • communications specialist
  • customs/immigration officer
  • dialect coach
  • ESL instructor
  • film translator (dubbing)
  • foreign correspondent
  • interpreter
  • policy analyst
  • translator

Note: Some roles may require additional training or education.

Explore more careers.

Will I Be Supported After Graduation?

As a Laurier alum, you'll have access to Career and Employment Support offered at Laurier for your entire career.

How Does Arts Co-op at Laurier Work?

The Faculty of Arts' accredited co-op program at Wilfrid Laurier University offers two co-op pathways and both give you 12 months of paid career experience before you graduate. 

Here’s what you need to know:

  • Apply in first year: Join the co-op program after you start, then complete three four-month work terms during your studies.
  • Apply direct from high school: Get a head start with direct admission to co-op in select Arts programs, straight from high school.
Both pathways lead to the same strong outcome: 12 months of real-world work experience in your field.  

Interested? Learn more about co-op in the Faculty of Arts.

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99%employment rate for co‑op students – 2025 / 2026

Tuition and Costs

What are the Tuition Fees and Costs for Arts at Laurier?

Below is a breakdown of tuition fees and expenses for Laurier Arts students for one year (or two terms) studying full time. Fees are based on 2026/27 rates and are subject to increase. All fees are shown in Canadian dollars.

Tuition Fees for Arts Students
Fee Type Domestic Students International Students
Tuition $6,180 $36,624
Student Fees $2,133
$4,018 with co-op
$3,082
$4,967 with co-op
Textbook Fees $500 $500

See a full breakdown of your first-year expenses.

Scholarships and Bursaries

When you apply to Laurier you’ll be automatically assessed for entrance scholarships (based on your final admission average) and for in-course scholarships in your upper years (based on your Laurier GPA from the previous academic year). We also offer more than 700 competitive scholarships and awards, which require separate applications and may be awarded throughout the academic year.

Additional Financial Support

  • Get information and advice on eligibility for government assistance (like OSAP) from our Financial Aid office.
  • Apply for bursaries to receive additional support based on financial need and academic performance.
  • Learn money management skills through courses, workshops and financial coaching.
  • Visit the Career Centre for support finding part-time job opportunities.

 

Laurier Arts graduates employed or in post‑graduate studies in 2025

 

Laurier students engaged in hands‑on learning in 2025/26

 

Laurier is among the top 7 percent in the Center for World University Rankings 2026

Waterloo Campus

The Waterloo campus is tucked into about one city block, so you’re steps away from your classes, food and your new favourite study spot. With more than 60 programs in arts, science, business and music, you can customize your degree, gain hands-on learning opportunities and join in the community beyond the classroom.

There are many ways to tour our Waterloo campus, whether that's on a guided tour with one of our Laurier student ambassadors, on your own using virtual reality, or even on-demand through one of our pre-recorded tours. See our campus spaces and start to picture yourself at Laurier.

students in a classroom

How Will I Learn in This Program?

This is primarily an in-person program, meaning you'll attend classes on campus and learn face-to-face with professors and classmates. When you register for courses, you'll be able to select from available sections and create your timetable. 
 
In-person delivery gives you direct access to faculty, hands-on learning opportunities and a traditional university student experience.

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Get in Touch

Have questions? Email chooselaurier@wlu.ca, call 548‑889‑8888 or see all contact information.


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Think this program might be the perfect fit for you and your future?