The ROTC Flagship Summer Language Program is an initiative of the Defense Language and National Security Education Office and administered by the Institute of International Education.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s ROTC Flagship Summer Language Program is an intensive eight-week Mandarin Chinese immersion program hosted at National Kaohsiung Normal University (NKNU) in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. Designed to advance the development of language proficiency and regional expertise relevant to the Indo-Pacific, the program engages participants in rigorous instruction, individualized tutoring, language-partner activities and guided real-world communication opportunities that extend learning beyond the classroom.
Building on more than 16 years of experience delivering federally funded language programs for ROTC students, Embry-Riddle provides a proven pathway for cadets and midshipmen to strengthen their Mandarin skills while gaining the confidence, adaptability and global perspective required of future military leaders.
Location: Kaohsiung, Taiwan
Language: Mandarin Chinese
Program Dates: May 18-July 10, 2027
Program Type: Overseas
Accommodations: Double-occupancy hotel within walking distance of National Kaohsiung Normal University in Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| Year 2 | Year 3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Credits offered | 9 | 9 |
| Number of classroom hours per week | 20 | 20 |
| Number of self-study/homework hours per week | 15 | 15 |
| Number of hours with language partner per week | 2.5 | 2.5 |
| Number of hours of other activities per week | 20 | 20 |
| LCH 210 | Chinese Oral Communication | 3 credits |
| LCH 215 | Intermediate Chinese Listening and Reading | 3 credits |
| SS 214 | Culture, History and Language | 3 credits |
Note: Level 3 applicants may be asked to interview with the Faculty Director.
| LCH310 | Speech in Chinese | 3 credits |
| LCH 402 | Applied Cross-Cultural Communications | 3 credits |
| SS 314 | Culture, History and Language | 3 credits |
The opportunity to be immersed in the society [that] speaks the language I am learning has allowed me to understand conversations and customs [that] are incomparable to learning Chinese in the U.S.
- Makayla, Embry-Riddle Project Global Officer, Chinese in Taiwan 2025
Financial Details
ROTC FSLP provides funding for:
- Tuition/fees
- Room and board
- Travel to/from study location
- Books
- Insurance
- Visa (if applicable)
ROTC FSLP participants planning to travel abroad must have a valid U.S. passport in their possession no later than 90 days before anticipated travel date. Destinations may require student visas, which take additional processing time.
The following costs will not be included in ROTC FSLP funding: personal spending money, personal travel, costs for obtaining a passport, medication and expenses for dependents.
Monetary Incentive
Check with your respective military branch to learn more about the financial benefits available for studying a critical language.
How to Apply
Application Deadline: Jan. 19, 2027
Additional Application Requirements: Level 3 Applicants may be asked to interview with the Faculty Director.