Cantonese is taught by the Critical Languages Program at the University of Arizona with credit and non-credit options available. Small class sizes, expert tutors, and immersive learning that connects language with lived experience.
Why Study Cantonese?
Cantonese is bold, expressive, and full of personality—just like the culture it comes from. With over 85 million native speakers and strong global communities in Hong Kong, Southern China, Canada, the U.S., and beyond, Cantonese connects you to a world of culture, cuisine, and opportunity.
Cantonese is a useful language if you want to dive into international business or ancient Chinese studies. People around the world are actively promoting the use of Cantonese and its culture especially in regions like Hong Kong and United States. Join us and explore the rich and colorful culture!
What Can You Do with Cantonese?
- Join global industries: Cantonese is widely used in international business, trade, and tourism across Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta—one of the world’s largest economic zones.
- Connect through culture: Watch classic Hong Kong films, follow Canto-pop, and explore Cantonese slang like “add oil!”
- Experience the culinary world: Understand food culture and order yum cha like a local.
- Stand out professionally: Multilingual candidates, especially with Chinese language skills, are in demand in finance, hospitality, law, and media.
- Build cross-cultural relationships: Engage with Cantonese-speaking communities from San Francisco to Singapore.
Learning Outcomes
Read through our Student Learning Outcomes and see what to expect from courses 101 - 302.
Complete the Language Requirement
- For the B.S. complete courses 101, 102
- For the B.A. complete courses 101, 102, 201, 202
Ready to Register?
Take the first step. Join a small, welcoming class with credit and non-credit options available.
For Credit
If you are a beginner, sign up for CRL 101 under course section number 301 in UAccess.
If you do not find a course offering at a time that fits your schedule, reach out to us at critlang@arizona.edu and we will do our best to accommodate!
Not sure where to start?
If you have studied the language before or have spoken it at home, you should reach out to the tutor of your language or the Program Coordinator to schedule a free informal placement assessment.
If you do not see a level that you need offered in UAccess, reach out to critlang@arizona.edu.
Want to take a non-credit course?
You may have interest in learning this language but do not need university credit. We offer non-credit, community online courses for adults, as well as individualized tutoring. (No UA matriculation needed). In person class opportunities may be available depending upon class capacity.
CLP Tutors
Phoebe Chan
"I love my tutor!!!"
Cantonese 101 student