Proficiency in modern languages can help you to gain a competitive edge in the global jobs market. In both the private and public sectors, there is a demand for professionals with strong language skills who can work in culturally diverse environments. If you are studying languages, we offer a range of them, some of which you can start as a complete beginner, and you will have the opportunity to learn from native speakers.

French:
This course places language learning within the wider context of French studies including culture, society, literature, film and history. The language units emphasise communicating effectively and developing transferable skills such as translating, interpreting and interview techniques, with practical language classes embracing speaking, listening, reading and writing.

On this course, you will have the option to take up our Interpreting and Translation route from your second year. 

You will have the opportunity to spend your third year abroad in France. The experience of being immersed in another culture for several months is one our students find both beneficial and rewarding. They return having made new friends, experienced new places and having grown in confidence.

Minor languages available: 

Modern Standard Arabic, Mandarin Chinese, Japanese, Spanish, and Italian (2021 entry only).

Placement options

Students studying a language as a minor subject will the opportunity to apply to spend a period of residence abroad or on a work placement.

Language skills can be applied in a wide variety of careers, from teaching and translating/interpreting, to business and management, finance, charity and community work.

Other opportunities may exist in areas such as journalism, in central and local government, international institutions, voluntary organisations, political parties or the media.

There is also the opportunity to engage in further study and professional training, for example some of our graduates go on to join our Postgraduate Linguistics Network, with three courses available in:

• MA TESOL and Applied Linguistics
• MA Linguistics and English Language
• MA Linguistics and English Studies

Taught by research-active academics, all of our courses will equip you with the valuable communication skills needed to work in culturally diverse environments.