Modern Languages, BA (Hons)

This degree offers the opportunity to study two languages, such as Mandarin Chinese, French, German, Russian, Spanish, Serbian/Croatian, or Portuguese, fostering global connections and essential skills in an increasingly complex world. Students enhance their proficiency through a year abroad, immersing in the languages and cultures, which many describe as a transformative experience that boosts independence and employability. Those unable to study abroad may consider the three-year Modern Languages BA.Two pathways are available: if you have two post-A level/IB languages, continue with options like French and German; if you have one, begin another at a lower level to reach equivalence by the final year. Note that Portuguese and Serbian/Croatian are beginner-only, with specific pairing restrictions—Portuguese cannot combine with Mandarin Chinese or Russian, and Serbian/Croatian must pair with Russian. Indicate your choices in your UCAS application.

Depending on the languages you choose and the level you start from there are certain core modules you have to take each year. Year one. There are two pathways you may choose from: I have two post-A level/IB languages: You may choose to continue two of the following: French, German, Russian and Spanish* (which includes a year of Portuguese) - just let us know your language choices in your UCAS application. I have one post-A level/IB language and would like to start another as a beginner or from GCSE level You can reach the same level in your beginners’ language as in your A-level language by your final year. You may choose from: French, German, Portuguese, Russian, Serbian/Croatian or Spanish - just let us know your language choices in your UCAS application. You will take 120 credits worth of modules with core modules appropriate to your level and language choices. Your core language modules are 20 credits for post-A level students and 40 credits if you are a beginner (except Portuguese and Serbian/Croatian which are 20 credits). Year two. Your language studies will be consolidated and developed to prepare you for your year abroad. You will take 120 credits’ worth of modules with the core language modules being 20 credits per language. Year abroad. You will divide your time between countries where your chosen language(s) are spoken. Depending on where your placement is, you could study at one of our exchange universities, teach on the British Council assistantship programme, or undertake a work placement with a company. (Please note this option is not available in China or Russia) Year four. You will develop your command of your languages and their use in increasingly sophisticated contexts. Through optional modules you'll be able to tailor your degree around personal interests or career aspirations. During this year you will take 120 credits’ worth of modules (including 20 credits of core language modules per language).