ILC Institute of Language Competence

Studying at the ZHAW – hands on, intercultural and international: In our BA in Language and Integration – German as a Foreign/Second Language, you develop the skills needed to combine language and social engagement, shape the field of migration and integration in a professional and sustainable manner and teach German, an internationally important language, both at home and abroad. Our specialisation in Linguistic Diversity Management as part of the MA in Applied Linguistics enables you to use linguistic and cultural diversity as a resource in multilingual and multicultural organisations. The degree programme therefore prepares you for taking on strategic roles and management tasks in the international working world.

Centre for Languages and Communication: We are responsible for teaching language and communication skills as part of numerous degree programmes offered by other ZHAW Schools. We also offer language courses in German and eight other languages for ZHAW students and staff.

Interactive, applied, vocational continuing education: At our continuing education centre, you acquire the tools you need to achieve your professional goals in the areas of language, communication and didactics. Our offer includes various CAS programmes, continuing education courses and language courses.

Research and development: At the ILC, we deal with language in social, professional, teaching and learning contexts. Our research describes and analyses language and communication skills as well as job-specific, subject-specific and intercultural communication and discourses. We develop new methodological approaches for dealing with (digital) linguistic data with the aim of providing solutions and answers for fields of action and work in which language plays an important role.

German courses and Goethe-Institut Examination Centre: In our level and certificate courses, which cover levels A2 right through to C2+, we prepare you thoroughly for the Goethe exam, which we regularly hold as a partner of the Goethe-Institut. You can acquire and practice specific language skills in numerous special courses as well courses that are geared towards your profession and degree programme.

Innovative and target-oriented services and workshops relevant to everyday life: We have many years of experience as a provider of innovative services with a focus on language, communication and cultural mediation. Our workshops and writing consulting services are aimed at the specific needs arising from your everyday professional and student life.