The American Institute of Pakistan Studies (AIPS) will be hosting the Introduction to Urdu Language and Culture online course again this spring! Enrollment is open to all interested in exploring Urdu language and culture. The 10-week course will run from March 5 to May 14, 2026.
In this introductory level Urdu language and culture class, participants will have the opportunity to gain a basic foundation in Urdu and learn about the rich cultural traditions of Pakistan and other Urdu-speaking regions. The 10-week online course is ideal for those who want to get an overview of the basics of the Urdu writing system, learn conversational Urdu useful for daily activities (e.g. shopping, ordering in restaurants), and explore cultural themes via dramas, movies, songs and poetry. No previous knowledge is required, and participants can earn up to 2.0 Continuing Education Unit (CEU) credits for completing the course. The course has been designed by Dr. Jameel Ahmad who has been teaching beginning to advanced-level Urdu for over a decade at the University of Washington, Seattle.
*The course is geared towards beginning level Urdu learners and those looking to gain basic knowledge of Urdu language. This course is not designed for advanced, fluent speakers or auditors. If you are a language instructor or have interest in developing an asynchronous language class, please email us to join a wait list for future opportunities.
Enrollment Process
Please register via UW-Madison’s Continuing Studies webpage. The course registration fee is $259, due upon enrollment.
Spots in the course are limited, so sign up today! The deadline to enroll is March 4, 2026.