The Language Center of the University of Vienna looks back on hundred years of tradition and expertise in language instruction. Its offer includes courses of German and approximately 40 European and non-European languages (e.g. Arabic, Japanese and Hindi), preparation courses for standard language examinations, as well as language competency tests.

The Vienna International University Courses [Wiener Internationale Hochschulkurse – WIHK, later WIHOK] were inaugurated in 1922 as a series of scientific lectures. German language courses, primarily intended for English speaking students of the University of Vienna, were launched soon after and, before long, became popular with people from all over the world. Arduous circumstances during WW II and in the post-war period (1942–1952) required the suspension of courses. Since their resumption in 1952, the German Courses – which take place both during the academic year and during the summer months – have been attended by thousands of learners.

Many participants attend the German Courses in preparation for programs of study at the University of Vienna, or take part in a summer course and decide to spend more time studying in Vienna. Currently, the German Courses at the Language Center number approximately 9,000 students from more than 130 countries every year.

A keen promoter of lifelong learning, then Vice Rector for Teaching and International Affairs Arthur Mettinger founded the Language Center of the University of Vienna in August 2001 specifically for foreign language teaching. Its purpose was – and still is – to offer students, university employees and other interested individuals top level language instruction. The University of Vienna thus opened its doors in the very heart of Vienna, on the university campus, to anyone wishing to learn a language or enhance previously acquired language skills.

The initial offer included English, French and Spanish. Nowadays, more than 9,000 people attend courses in approximately 30 languages every year. The Foreign Language Courses were awarded the European Seal for Innovative Language Projects (ESIS) in 2004.