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

Kaffeeklatsch - German Conversation Hour promotional image

Kaffeeklatsch - German Conversation Hour

Tuesday, November 18, 2025 5:00pm to 6:00pm
Phillips Hall
Come and practice your German in a comfortable group setting!
Food Around the World promotional image

Food Around the World

Wednesday, November 19, 2025 2:00pm to 3:00pm
Phillips Hall
The Food Studies Group, a promising new initiative supported by International Programs, will host its first event, Food Around the World, on Wednesday, November 19, from 2 to 3 p.m. in the Culture Bites Cafe, room 120 of Phillips Hall. Free and open to all students, this event invites attendees to explore global cultures through one of our greatest connectors—food.
The Nonfiction Writing Program Presents: Catharina Coenen in conversation with NWP Alum Stephanie Krzywonos promotional image

The Nonfiction Writing Program Presents: Catharina Coenen in conversation with NWP Alum Stephanie Krzywonos

Wednesday, November 19, 2025 7:00pm
Prairie Lights Books

Catharina Coenen in conversation with NWP Alum Stephanie Krzywonos on Unexploded Ordnance on Wednesday, November 19th at 7:00pm at Prairie Lights Books

Beverly Brandau Fall Break Meal promotional image

Beverly Brandau Fall Break Meal

Monday, November 24, 2025 11:00am to 1:00pm
Old Brick
Community members and University of Iowa (UI) international students and scholars staying on campus during the fall break are invited to join International Programs for a celebration of community and a traditional holiday meal.
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