If you’re interested in an international career where you can communicate in more than just English, a study of modern languages could be the perfect degree for you. At uni you can choose from French, Spanish, German, Italian and more in your quest to become multi-lingual. Foreign language skills open the doors to many different opportunities so this is also a great area of study if you’re not totally sure what career path you want to follow at this stage.
What do you need to get on a modern languages degree?
The ranges of entry requirements for modern languages are as follows:
- UCAS points: 152–104
- A-levels: ABB–BCC
- Scottish Highers: AABB–BBBB
- BTEC Nationals: DDM–DMM
- International Baccalaureate: 33–28
Most unis will ask that you’ve studied French, Spanish or German.
What modern languages degrees can you study?
Degrees in modern languages include:
- BA Modern Languages
- BA Modern Languages and Cultures
- BA Modern and Medieval Languages
Modern languages can often be studied alongside another subject, such as business management, chemistry or geography.
What topics does a modern languages degree cover?
Common modules for modern languages include:
- Study of relevant languages e.g., French and Spanish
- Written skills
- Oral skills
- Reading skills
- History, politics, culture and society
- Intercultural communication
What do you learn studying a modern languages degree?
Studying a modern languages degree will help you gain industry-specific skills like:
- Proficiency in chosen languages
- International cultural contextualisation
- Translation
- Writing in foreign languages
- Knowledge of other countries’ practices
More general, transferable skills you’ll pick up include:
- Written and oral communication
- Time management
- Independent working
- Flexibility
- Problem-solving
- Memory
- Critical thinking
- Presentation
- Attention to detail
What professional accreditations can you get with a modern languages degree?
Modern languages degrees will often be accredited by the Chartered Institute of Linguists.
What can you do with a modern languages degree?
Some examples of jobs that modern languages graduates can get are:
- Translator
- Academic researcher
- Interpreter
- Political risk analyst
- Holiday representative
- Teacher or lecturer
- Researcher
- Tour manager
- Journalist
- Travel agent
- Hotel manager
How long is a modern languages degree?
A modern languages degree usually takes three years to study. However, most unis will give the option of a placement year (often abroad), which will increase your course to four years.
How will you be assessed?
Modern languages courses usually involve assessment through:
- Exams
- Coursework
- Portfolios
- Dissertation
What are the postgraduate opportunities?
Your options for further study include:
- MA Modern Languages and Cultures
- MA Modern Languages and Translation Studies
- MRes Modern Languages
- MA Modern Languages, Literature and Culture
What alternatives are there to a modern languages degree?
Not sure if a modern languages degree is right for you? Check out these related subjects: