Language Programs for Diplomats

Flexible Global Delivery

Programs are offered at our Monterey, California campus, our downtown Washington, D.C. site, or internationally at your location. We also offer online and hybrid delivery models. Each program is fully customizable, with options for single- or dual-language study and flexible scheduling to accommodate official duties.

Language Offerings

We offer both short-term (several weeks or months) and long-term (1 year) professional non-degree programs in:

Arabic — Chinese — English — French — Japanese — Russian — Spanish 

*Ask us about other language options

Program Highlights

• Diplomatically Relevant Content: Instruction integrates global policy topics such as international relations, nonproliferation, terrorism studies, climate diplomacy, and economic development.
• Tailored Curriculum: Program design, content, and duration are adapted to the specific objectives and schedule of the sponsoring agency or individual diplomat.
• Dual-Language Study: Participants may elect to study two languages concurrently, subject to availability and scheduling.

Instructional Approach

Our programs use a content-based instructional (CBI) model, ensuring that diplomats gain not only linguistic proficiency but also fluency in the terminology and discourse of their professional domain. Training emphasizes real-world communication scenarios, negotiation, and public speaking in cross-cultural and multilingual contexts.

Advanced Customization

Programs can incorporate graduate-level coursework and seminars from the Middlebury Institute in areas such as:

• International Policy and Diplomacy
• Nonproliferation and Counterterrorism
• Global Trade and Commerce
• Environmental and Energy Policy
• Sustainable Development and Governance

This integrated approach provides diplomats with opportunities to engage directly with subject-matter experts, faculty, and graduate students preparing for careers in international affairs.

Program Requirements

• Minimum 60 hours of instruction
• Language proficiency prerequisites may apply
• Distance-learning and hybrid options available