Modern Languages and Linguistics

Do you have a passion for language learning, intercultural communication, and the study of cultures and societies? Are you looking to study one or two languages, with a focus on understanding how languages help us communicate and establish our identities?

The degree in Modern Languages and Linguistics (50% Modern Languages, 50% Applied Linguistics) combines specialist language learning with the application of linguistic knowledge and theory to solve real-world problems. Modern Languages looks at the very heart of how we communicate with other people and societies, focusing on the different nuances and cultural debates that can shape our interactions with one another. Meanwhile, your Linguistics modules will help you build an interdisciplinary foundation from leading research in language and communication. Then you will apply your learning to explore, challenge, understand, and address problems and find meaningful solutions.

Our flexible programme allows you to acquire an in-depth knowledge of one language and its related cultural contexts, or study two languages, while exploring the social contexts of language in general. Your second or third year is normally spent abroad, either as a language assistant, or working or studying at one of our partner universities. This is an invaluable opportunity to immerse yourself in the linguistic and cultural contexts where your languages are spoken, enhance your language skills and build international connections.

You will have access to outstanding facilities and resources. This includes flexible collaborative and individual learning spaces, as well as a vast selection of print, digital and multimedia learning materials.

You will graduate as a highly qualified linguist, with advanced intercultural skills and a sophisticated understanding of key concepts and debates in the cultures you have studied. The specialist communication, research, critical and evaluative skills you will gain are all highly sought after by employers.

This Joint Honours degree is split 50:50 between Modern Languages and Linguistics. The degree will enable you to gain expertise in one language and its related culture, or in two languages, while exploring the social contexts of language as well as how language is acquired.

You can choose one of two different routes on this degree:

• On route one (one language), you specialise in one language and its related cultural contexts.

• On route two (two languages) you focus on two languages.

Both routes enable you to spend half your time studying in the Centre for Applied Linguistics (CAL).

On route one you can choose from: French, German, Italian or Spanish. This route enables you to select cultural modules related to that language and/or selected from the wide range of thematic options offered across the School.

On route two you choose Language 1 from: French, German, Italian, or Spanish. Language 2 will be selected from: Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Russian or Spanish.

On both routes, you will normally spend your second or third year abroad, consolidating and enhancing your learning. If you are taking two languages, you can split the year between your languages.