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As a geographic gateway to Southeast Asia and Eastern Asia, growing opportunities are emerging from Myanmar. This means Burmese speakers can take a leading role in this fast-changing country and rising region.

Burmese is the official language of Myanmar, which has a population of 54 million, around 70% of who are native speakers of the language. Burmese is also the main lingua-franca in the country as well as in Myanmar communities worldwide, including London, San Francisco, Tokyo, Singapore and major Australian cities.  

Located in the far-west region of Southeast Asia, bordering Bangladesh, India, China, Laos and Thailand, Myanmar’s geostrategic location, recent democratization and economic growth and expansion of Burmese language online publications, is attracting increasing international attention.

Well-known as a Buddhist country, Myanmar at the same time embraces many ethnic groups with a diversity of cultures.

Overview

Our two-year course spans four levels and builds a strong foundation in Burmese reading, everyday conversation and listening comprehension, while introducing students to Myanmar’s culture, society and history.

Spoken Burmese is a key focus throughout the course, supported by a wide range of audio materials that make listening practice both engaging and enjoyable. Students are also introduced to basic literary Burmese through authentic texts, helping them develop skills for further research on Myanmar.

By learning to listen carefully and communicate confidently, students can deepen their understanding of Myanmar and have more meaningful conversations with Burmese-speaking friends and communities.

Study options

Burmese was introduced at ANU as a minor in 2016, with courses open to both undergraduate and postgraduate students. Individual courses can also be taken as electives, depending on the student’s language proficiency.

Since 2020, Burmese has been delivered fully online and is also available through Open Universities Australia. Live weekly Zoom classes are an essential part of learning the language, and students are expected to attend at least 90 minutes of class each week.

To participate, students need access to a computer with a built-in or external camera, a headset with a microphone, reliable internet and a smartphone or scanner.

ANU has a strong history of research on Myanmar, and students are invited to attend academic events organised by the ANU Myanmar Research Centre.

    Undergraduate courses include Burmese 1, Burmese 2, Burmese 3 and Burmese 4.

    Visit ANU Programs and Courses for study options, or Open Universities Australia for studying Burmese 1-4 as subject.

    The School of Culture, History and Language places a unique emphasis on in-country experience. For more information on exchange programs and in-country language opportunities, visit the ANU global programs or enquire cap.student@anu.edu.au.

    ANU Students:

    Non-ANU Students: