BA Language Studies
University of Essex
Key Information
Campus location
Colchester, United Kingdom
Languages
English
Study format
On-Campus
Duration
3 years
Pace
Full time
Tuition fees
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Application deadline
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Earliest start date
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Introduction
BA Language Studies
Language is fundamental to our thought, our relationships, and our civilisations. Through language we transmit knowledge, from inviting someone for coffee, to promoting the latest scientific theory, to settling global political disputes.
On our BA Language Studies, you become proficient in one or more of the modern languages taught at Essex; French, German, Italian, Spanish, and Mandarin Chinese. These languages can be studied alongside the language expert modules which cover a range of cultural and professional skills.
For most of our languages, we offer modules in all six different levels recognised by the Common European Framework, enabling you to study from almost any level of expertise. Of the four modules you take in your final year, two must be taken to Proficiency level (C1), and the other two must be taken to Intermediate level (B1).
Each of these languages is widely used in the business world, and so many of our graduates are recruited by international firms looking for language specialists, and go on to develop successful global careers. Others join a teacher-training Program after leaving, and become expert teachers of the language they studied at Essex.
A year abroad is not compulsory on this course; however, you are encouraged to achieve an even higher level of attainment (C2) by taking a summer vacation course in a country where the language is spoken.
We also offer a month-long summer course with fees paid for by us if you start a language from scratch via the intensive route.
If you want a global outlook, are interested in human communication, and want to study for a degree with real-world practical value in a world-class department, welcome to Essex.
Admissions
Scholarships and Funding
Several scholarship options are available, please visit the university website for more information.
Curriculum
Year 1
- Language Expert 1
- Careers and Employability Skills for Languages and Linguistics
Year 2
- Language Expert 2
- Careers and Employability Skills for Languages and Linguistics
Final Year
- Careers and Employability Skills for Languages and Linguistics
Program Tuition Fee
Career Opportunities
Companies and organisations in the UK and abroad are struggling to find university graduates who are fluent in at least one other language, apart from English.
Being an Essex modern languages graduate places you in a very advantageous position. You will be able to speak and write fluently, or to a very competent standard, in up to four languages. Language skills are in scarce supply and can be used in almost any job.
Our graduates become teachers, translators, administrators and journalists. Their valued language skills have enabled them to work in diverse fields including banking, entertainment, media, education and tourism, as well as for a host of UK and international companies.
For example, one of our recent graduates is now a newspaper editor in Spain, while another teaches modern languages in Southampton.
We also work with the University’s Student Development Team to help you find out about further work experience, internships, placements, and voluntary opportunities.
Program delivery
- Teaching is arranged to allow freedom in how you organise your learning experience
- Other teaching methods include lectures, demonstrations and learning by teaching others