Learn Thai

คุณค่าของคนอยู่ที่ผลงาน

Khun-khâa-khǎawng-khon-yùu-thîi-phǒn-ngaan.

Literal translation: The value of a man comes from his works.

English equivalent: A man of word, not a man of deed, is like a garden full of weeds.

Thai is part of the Kra-Dai family of languages, which are found in Southeast Asia and parts of China and India. Thai is the only official language of Thailand, though there are as many as 50 indigenous languages spoken in the country. The Thai script has 44 consonants, and Thai has many loanwords from Chinese, Sanskrit, Khmer, and Pali.

Whether you want to study Buddhism or business, learning Thai will allow you to explore the rich language, culture, and customs of this diverse country.

SEAS offers four semesters of Thai, or through the intermediate level, every year. 

Please see our current course offerings for the most up-to date list of classes, or write to seas@iu.edu for more information.