Selamat datang! Welcome to the Columbia Indonesian Language Program!

Expanding across the equator, Indonesia has 271 million people with hundreds of ethnic groups, living in 17,000 islands, speaking 718 different local languages, but only one language unites them all: Indonesian. In the Columbia Indonesian language program, you will not only learn how to communicate in the language but also learn how a language can be so powerful as to unite such a diverse culture. If you are also interested in the rich geography of a diverse archipelago, cultural traditions, and present-day topics in the largest economy in Southeast Asia, this is the right place for you.

Columbia offers instruction in Indonesian at the Elementary and Intermediate levels while the Advanced level is available to Columbia students from Cornell University through the Shared Course Initiative. These classes are designed to develop your knowledge and understanding of the language and the culture. They will provide you with multiple opportunities to refine your Indonesian communication skills in both the receptive (reading and listening) and productive skills (speaking and writing). As it is important to make the classroom a safe learning space for everyone, you will learn through carefully curated authentic materials and work on various activities and tasks. You will also get a chance to explore the unique charms of Indonesia: its traditions, food, music, nature, lifestyle, people, and current issues through diverse resources, discussions, and projects. 

Taking courses in Indonesian will allow you to fulfill the language requirement at Columbia.

Please check the Columbia Directory of Classes for the latest information. Search for “Indonesian.”