Modern Languages (French / German / Italian / Spanish) and English Literature, BA (Hons)

Our BA in Modern Languages and English Literature offers a dynamic opportunity to study a core language—such as French, German, Italian, or Spanish—alongside global literary traditions. This flexible programme includes optional introductory modules in languages like Arabic, British Sign Language, Chinese (Mandarin), or Modern Greek, subject to availability. Taught by experts from the Departments of Languages and Cultures and English Literature, the course emphasises interactive learning in small seminar groups. In the 2023 National Student Survey, 98% of Languages and Cultures students and 94% of English Literature students rated teaching staff highly for explanations. You’ll engage with a vibrant, multilingual community at the University of Reading, learning from internationally acclaimed researchers whose work spans migration, literature, history, cinema, linguistics, publishing, and translation. All our research achieves international standing (Research Excellence Framework 2021).Core modules include Poetry in English, Theory and Practice of Writing, language-specific courses, a Study Abroad Year, and Language and Power. Modules for 2025/26 are subject to final approval, so check the programme page for updates: https://www.reading.ac.uk/ready-to-study/study/subject-area/languages-and-cultures-ug/ba-modern-languages-and-english-literature.

The following modules have been approved in principle for delivery in 2025/26. Please note that as part of our current curriculum improvement process, all modules require final University approval and may be subject to change. Core modules on this course: Poetry in English; Theory and Practice of Writing; French, German, Italian or Spanish language modules, Study Abroad Year, Language and Power. The University cannot guarantee that all optional modules will be available to all students who may wish to take them. Further information about the content of final approved modules will be available in the summer of 2024. We suggest that you regularly revisit our course page during this time to ensure you have the most up-to-date information regarding the modules offered on this programme. Check our website for more details about the course structure.