Course overview

This flexible degree programme allows you to study two or three languages to degree level. Alongside your language study, you can develop a specialism in the culture of your major language and also have the opportunity to study thematic modules across cultures. (If you wish to divide your time equally between two languages and their associated cultures, a joint honours combination may be more suitable).

You can choose one of two different routes on this degree. On route one (two languages), you specialise in one language and culture, while studying a second language as a minor subject. On route two (three languages) you focus on two major languages and cultures, while taking a third language as a minor subject. In your first year you will select a culture module from one language.

On route one you can choose your major language from: French, German, Italian or Spanish. Your second language can be selected from: Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Russian or Spanish. 50% of your time will be devoted to language learning and the other 50% of your time will be spent studying cultural modules focused on your major language and/or selected from modules offered within the School.

On route two you can choose two languages from: French, German, Italian or Spanish. Your third language will be selected from: Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Russian or Spanish. 75% of your degree will be devoted to language learning and the remaining 25% of your time will be spent studying cultural modules focusing on one or more of your major languages.

We offer a wide range of modules within the School of Modern Languages and Cultures and the full range is open to you on both routes of this course. You’ll normally spend your second or third year abroad consolidating and enhancing your learning.

Course structure

Route one

In your first year you will take two language modules in your chosen major and minor languages and two modules focusing on the cultural contexts of one or more of the languages you are studying. Your first cultural module will focus on your major language. You have freedom of choice for your second cultural module, which could be focused on either your major or your minor language, or which might be selected from the range of modules offered across the School.

In your intermediate and final year you will continue to take two core language modules. You’ll take a further core module in your major language. You’ll select your other modules from the wide range of options available across the School. You’ll spend your second or third year abroad consolidating your learning.

Route two

In your first year you will take three language modules and one module focusing on the cultural contexts of one or more of the languages you are studying. Your cultural module can be a culture module associated with either of your two major languages (French, German, Italian or Hispanic Studies); or a translation studies module.

In each year of your degree you will take three core language modules. You’ll select your cultural modules from the wide variety of options available across the School.

You’ll spend your second or third year abroad consolidating your learning.

How will I learn?

We employ a variety of teaching styles, including: lectures; seminars and written and spoken language classes in small groups. You will spend the rest of your time studying independently, preparing for classes, reading and analysing materials set for study, writing essays and working on your language skills.

Class size

Seminars of around 15 students.

Contact hours

Approximately 14 hours per week.

How will I be assessed?

We will track your progress through a variety of methods, including language assignments, essays, presentations, portfolio submissions and examinations (written and oral). Throughout your course you will receive detailed, personalised feedback to help you to improve your skills. The final degree classification is determined by your intermediate- and final-year marks; each of these years contributes 50%.

Your year abroad

We strongly recommend that students take a year abroad, if they are able to. Students may move to a three-year degree if circumstances do not permit them to complete a year abroad. In such cases, there will be further language reinforcement work and students will be encouraged to spend time abroad in other ways, during vacation times.

You will usually spend your year abroad doing one of three things:

• Working as a language assistant teaching English in a primary or secondary school
• Studying full-time at a partner university in your chosen country
• On a work placement

The year abroad options are flexible so we recommend you check the department's subject pages for more details.