In addition to a Spanish major and minor (see Spanish), Buena Vista University offers language instruction using a combination of on-campus offerings and exchange programs. Languages offered in this form are Chinese, German, and Japanese. The aim of such programs is to provide a degree of language competency as well as an understanding of the culture of the country in which the language is predominantly spoken.
A minor in one of these languages is available with the approval of the dean of the School of Communication and Arts. A minor requires 18 credit hours, including 101, 102, 201, 202, 490 in the specific language area and COMM 302. Teaching licensure is not available.