Why Iowa?

Explore languages, cultures, and writing to become a globally prepared, fluent, and versatile communicator.

Language. Culture. Connection.

Expertise. Scholarship. Impact.

Innovative teaching and research

See yourself here

Open doors to a wide range careers, cultures, and global understanding through in-depth language study.

HISTORY OF THE AMERICAN DEAF COMMUNITY

14

Areas of study
korean conversation class

# 1

Public university for writing and communication

U.S. News and World Report

10 +

Languages
languages on chalk board

UNESCO

City of Literature
German class

Write Your Story

Explore over a dozen languages, delve into fascinating cultures, and gain invaluable skills in critical thinking and communication. Our research-intensive environment and varied programs prepare you for global careers and meaningful engagement with the world.

News and announcements

International Studies major María José Blanco Arias finds academic excellence, community, and purpose at Iowa

Wednesday, October 15, 2025
For María José Blanco Arias, the University of Iowa is more than just an academic destination - it’s a return to a place that shaped her childhood and continues to inspire her future. An international studies major from Colombia, Blanco Arias first experienced Iowa as a child living in Davenport. Years later, those memories helped guide her university search. Click the title above to read more!

Anne Frank Initiative, directed by German faculty Kirsten Kumpf Baele, worked to establish student-designed Little Free Library at the Children's Hospital

Friday, September 5, 2025
A student-designed Little Free Library, inspired by Anne Frank’s life and legacy, found a permanent home in the Janice and Bruce Ellig Children’s Library at the University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Children’s Hospital on August 19, 2025, thanks to a collaborative effort between the Anne Frank Initiative (AFI), Iowa Youth Writing Project, and Clear Creek Amana Middle School.

Eastern Iowa youth inspired through interactive Holocaust education

Friday, July 25, 2025
Anne Frank Initiative welcomes more than 200 Clear Creek Amana eighth graders to UI campus to learn about Anne Frank’s legacy

Events

Midterm Reset @ the Museum promotional image

Midterm Reset @ the Museum

Tuesday, November 11, 2025 5:00pm to 6:00pm
University of Iowa Museum of Natural History

Midterms are upon us, and we’re practicing the art of the pause here at the Museum of Natural History. Join us for one or all three upcoming events designed to help you unwind and recharge through origami, movement, and mindfulness at the museum.

Origami in Bird Hall
Step into the calm of Bird Hall for an origami break led by Mary Alice, our Visitor Services Coordinator. Fold peaceful paper birds, quiet your mind, and take a moment to breathe. No experience needed — just show up and recharge.
Wedne...

Kaffeeklatsch - German Conversation Hour promotional image

Kaffeeklatsch - German Conversation Hour

Tuesday, November 11, 2025 5:00pm to 6:00pm
Phillips Hall
Come and practice your German in a comfortable group setting!
Boren Award - Study Abroad Scholarship - Information Session promotional image

Boren Award - Study Abroad Scholarship - Information Session

Wednesday, November 12, 2025 11:30am to 12:30pm
Virtual
The Boren Scholarships and Fellowships are for students who want to dive deep into a less-commonly taught language while studying abroad in places like Africa, Asia, Latin America, Eastern Europe, or the Middle East. In return, awardees commit to working in the federal government after graduation for at least one year.
Unfolding the Map: Language and Curiosity as your Secret Weapon in 2025 promotional image

Unfolding the Map: Language and Curiosity as your Secret Weapon in 2025

Wednesday, November 12, 2025 12:00pm to 1:00pm
Phillips Hall
Join us for a discussion on how language can be both a skill and a strategic asset in international settings and careers - with guests Karri Goeldner Byrne and Pia Wanek.
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