Arabic • Hebrew • Persian • Turkish
The Middle Eastern and Mediterranean Language Institute (MEDLI) offers high-quality, proficiency-based courses in four languages for undergraduates, graduate students, and adult learners. Our 8-week programs are the equivalent of one year of study. Students learn speaking, reading, listening, and writing skills though classroom instruction and a full range of co-curricular activities.
Program runs June 15–August 7, 2026; applications open this fall.
Classes
Apply to study Arabic, Persian, and Turkish at the elementary, intermediate, or advanced level. Hebrew is only available for beginning students. All courses meet synchronously via Zoom, Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. (CDT), with ample breaks included.
Learn More
Email medli@lpo.wisc.edu or schedule an advising appointment to receive more information.
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Student Voices
“The highlight was working with my instructor and classmates to improve my Turkish language skills. The class grew a great rapport by the end of the eight weeks, so much as that I genuinely looked forward to attending four hours of class each day. For an intensive program where burnout is certainly possible, that says a lot!”
– 2024 Turkish student
“WISLI is a great program and having access to my target language is a really special opportunity. The professor is one of the best language teachers I’ve ever had. She’s responsive and helpful. She spends extra time with students to explain difficult concepts and really tries to ensure we’re learning as much as possible.”
– 2025 Persian student
“I learn well in community, and I really enjoy the exchange of experiences, ideas, and unique questions that arise from different ways of thinking and learning. It can also feel isolating to study alone, and I experience such joy connecting with other people who are interested in learning about new languages and cultures.”
– 2025 Arabic student
Sample Syllabi with Textbook Info
Here you’ll find sample syllabi from the most recent offering of each MEDLI course, including textbook information. Please note that syllabi and textbooks may vary from year to year, depending on the instructor. Additionally, some languages or levels may not be offered if student interest and enrollments are low, so we encourage you to apply early. Questions about syllabi or course offerings can be directed to medli@lpo.wisc.edu.
Research and Language Sustainment Resources
MEDLI Library Resources
All MEDLI students can access the UW–Madison library system, as well as the in-person MEDLI library at the Language Program Office (LPO). Explore these resources for projects and interests:
Kemal H. Karpat Center for Turkish Studies
The Kemal H. Karpat Center for Turkish Studies at UW-Madison brings together faculty, staff, students, and visiting scholars to promote excellence in the study of Turkish history and society, including Ottoman and Turkish diaspora studies. The Center also offers funding for language training. Click here to learn more.
Sponsors
MEDLI is sponsored and supported by various education centers and programs, national resource centers, and institutional partners on and off the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus. Our MEDLI community includes:
African Cultural Studies, African Studies Program, Asian Languages and Cultures, Center for Russia, East Europe, and Central Asia, European Studies at UW-Madison, Center for South Asia, George L. Mosse / Laurence A. Weinstein Center for Jewish Studies, German, Nordic, and Slavic+, Kemal H. Karpat Center for Turkish Studies, Madison Area Technical College (MATC), University of Pennsylvania: Middle East Center, Middle East Studies Program, and Institute for Regional and International Studies National Resource Center.
Interested in sponsoring or collaborating with MEDLI? Please get in touch.