Center for Languages, Cultures, & Regional Studies

Co-Housed in English & World Languages Co-Housed in Geography & Earth Sciences

Center for Languages, Cultures, & Regional Studies

Co-Housed in English & World Languages Co-Housed in Geography & Earth Sciences
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About the Center

Established in 2007 as part of the Language Transformation Roadmap, the United States Military Academy’s (USMA) Center for Languages, Cultures, and Regional Studies (CLCRS) advances applied and theoretical research in instructional design, experiential learning, and assessment. Its mission is to enhance foreign language proficiency, intercultural competence, and regional expertise in support of USMA’s academic and military objectives, as well as U.S. Army and Department of Defense (DoD) requirements.

To fulfill this mission, the center leads a variety of initiatives focused on three key areas: language proficiency, cross-cultural competence, and regional expertise.

Focus on Military Experiences in the Humanities

Learn about the Conference on Language, Culture, and Military
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Partners and Collaboration

The Center for Languages, Cultures, and Regional Studies works closely with academic, departmental, and external partners to strengthen language proficiency and cultural competence across the academy. Through collaborative research, resource development, and immersive opportunities, these partnerships help enhance the linguistic and regional expertise essential for developing adaptable, globally informed leaders.

Initiatives

  • Participate in a Defense Language Office studies on second language acquisition
  • Contribute to the U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command’s Culture Training Strategy.
  • Support the Army Research Institute’s cross-cultural competence project.
  • Provide input to Army cultural training strategies or research

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Outreach and Impact

CLCRS strengthens cross-cultural competence at USMA by expanding access to immersive learning experiences, expert insights, and shared academic resources. Through dedicated programming, enriched cultural opportunities, and collaborative engagement, the center equips cadets and faculty with the knowledge and perspectives needed to lead effectively in diverse global environments.

Initiatives

  • Create a Learning Resource Center for faculty and cadets.
  • Establish an endowment to expand language and cultural immersion programs.
  • Host lectures and events on language learning and cultural topics.
  • Host an annual cross-cultural competence conference at USMA.

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Research

The center advances scholarship in language acquisition, cultural understanding, and regional expertise to strengthen the intellectual foundation of leader development at USMA. By conducting targeted studies and creating evidence‑based assessment tools, CLCRS supports data‑driven improvements to curriculum, immersion programs, and cadet preparation for global engagement.

Initiatives

  • Survey cross‑cultural competence programs across the Department of Defense.
  • Conduct research on the relationship between language, culture, and regional expertise.
  • Develop assessment instruments for cadets, including those participating in study abroad programs.
  • Create tools to assess regional knowledge for cadets in international programs.

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Contact Us

Center for Languages, Cultures, & Regional Studies:

ATTN: MADN-EWL
745 Brewerton Road, Suite 5100C
West Point, New York 10996

Phone: (845) 938-2400
Fax: (845) 938-3585

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Collaborate With Us

The Office of Research helps coordinate West Point’s research efforts with external entities. Those interested in conducting research with West Point can email the Associate Dean for Research.

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