Cultural Competency and Language Classes offered through VCU Continuing and Professional Education introduce adult learners to different cultures, and include both noncredit learning opportunities, as well as classes for one academic credit.

Our noncredit courses and events are open to all learners.

In partnership with the School of World Studies, credit-based conversational language classes are offered as a benefit to VCU and VCU Health employees, and are open to community members and students not currently enrolled in VCU academic programs.

Credit Classes 

Note: For-credit courses may be eligible for employee tuition benefits. VCU faculty and staff should consult with Human Resources or visit the Tuition Benefit page for details on how to apply.

Noncredit classes

Note: Noncredit courses may be eligible for professional development funding through your employer. Please consult your supervisor or HR representative to learn more about available options and approval processes.

Why study a foreign language?

Advance Your Career
Set yourself apart in today’s global workplace. Whether you're in healthcare, education, business, or public service, Spanish language skills can enhance communication with Spanish-speaking clients, patients, or team members—opening doors to new opportunities and stronger professional relationships.

Build Cultural Understanding
Language learning fosters respect and connection. Improve your ability to engage meaningfully with customers, clients, and colleagues from diverse backgrounds. You'll gain intercultural awareness that supports more inclusive and effective communication in any setting.

Enhance Your Travel Experiences
Planning a trip abroad? Build confidence by learning or refreshing your language skills before you go. Interacting with locals in their language makes travel more meaningful—and more fun. Invite a friend or travel buddy to join you for added motivation!

Keep Your Mind Engaged
Learning a new language strengthens your brain by developing memory, listening, and speaking skills. It’s a rewarding way to stay sharp while enjoying the personal challenge of mastering something new.

Learn on Your Terms
Our flexible, online courses are designed for busy adults. Whether you’re looking to improve workplace communication, prepare for travel, or start learning Spanish from the ground up, you can gain real-world skills at your own pace—anytime, anywhere.

Noncredit registration

Noncredit registration takes place online via our online registration system or by using the Noncredit Registration Form. [PDF] Visit our payment and billing page for more information about noncredit courses/events.

Please note, coupon codes cannot be combined with other discounts/coupons or waivers, and will not be retroactively applied.

Credit registration

Visit our registration page for additional instructions on registering for undergraduate credit. The tuition and fees calculator for credit students can also be accessed on this page under 'Helpful links'. The tuition benefit or education assistance may be available to qualified employees. Contact Human Resources to determine eligibility, and refer to our payment and billing page for specific details.

Registration using a manual Credit Registration Form [PDF] is available. If you are an active nondegree-seeking student, you can enroll online through eServices during the registration period. For these short courses, the add/drop is one day after the start date.