Recommended · Nashville, TN
TN Foreign Language Institute
A public university-affiliated center in Nashville offering diverse world language classes, ESL programs, and specialized professional interpreter training.
About
Operating under the University of Tennessee Institute for Public Service, the Tennessee Language Center (TLC) serves as a comprehensive hub for language learning, translation services, and professional training in Nashville and across the state. Originally established as the Tennessee Foreign Language Institute, the center provides structured language education designed for both personal enrichment and professional advancement.
TLC offers a robust selection of programs, including English as a Second Language (ESL) and courses in over ten world languages. Classes are structured in convenient formats, typically meeting weekly for multi-week terms with both in-person and real-time online options. Beyond standard language acquisition, the center is highly regarded for its specialized professional tracks, such as medical and court interpreter training, Spanish for law enforcement, and Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) certification.
Programs offered
- English Classes
- World Language Classes
- Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL)
- Medical Interpreter Training
- Court Interpreter Workshop
- Simultaneous Interpreting Boot Camp
- Spanish for Law Enforcement
- Spanish for Medical Personnel
- Spanish Training for Educators
Languages & delivery
Languages taught
- English
- Spanish
- Japanese
Delivery
- 👥 Adults, professionals, and government employees
Accreditations & certifications
- ✓ University of Tennessee Institute for Public Service
What stands out
- Affiliated with the University of Tennessee
- Specialized vocational Spanish programs for law enforcement and medical personnel
- Interpreter and translator training boot camps
- Official testing center for ALTA and Japan Kanji Aptitude Test
Recent Google reviews
I recently had my asylum interview and used the translation services provided by TLC. I want to express my deepest gratitude to my interpreter, Tatiana, for her outstanding work. We met once before the interview so I could provide her with a copy of my story. This allowed her to fully understand the context of my case beforehand. On the day of the interview, Tatiana arrived right on time. We had a brief chat about life before going in, which surprisingly helped me relax and eased my nerves. Although I speak English, I tend to get confused or lose my words when switching between languages under pressure—especially regarding complex topics like government harassment and structural pressure. Tatiana’s assistance was absolutely essential in those moments. Even though I was alone in the room with the officer, having Tatyana there made me feel so much stronger and more confident than I would have been on my own. The interview went smoothly, and I couldn't have asked for a better experience. I highly recommend both TLC and Tatiana!
This class was fantastic. Although I had been studying Spanish for a couple years on my own, speaking was the skill I most needed to improve and my hope was to find a safe space to begin the journey. The TLC program did a great job of accessing my skill level, and the online class provided me with exactly the jumping off point I needed.
A fun and informative class to learn some basic Spanish utilizing vocabulary frequently needed at my job in school. Not only did I learn language, but culture norms. The instructor, Olivia, was very encouraging, patient, friendly and helpful.
This is my 2nd class using TLC, soon to be in class 3! Silvia Lewis has been very helpful with my Italian lesson journey. Enjoying g it!
Based on 176 Google reviews · average 4.9
Location
📍 193 Polk Avenue, Suite B, Nashville, TN 37210