Linguistics and a Modern Language Bachelor of Arts (with Honours) - BA (Hons)

Become a globally aware graduate who thinks critically, understands cultural diversity and has a wide range of transferable skills.

You’ll develop high-level communication and critical-thinking skills while building resilience and independence through immersive language experiences on our BA in Linguistics and a Modern Language.

You'll receive a rigorous grounding in the analysis of language, including key aspects of phonetics, morphology and syntax. You’ll also be able to explore topics such as forensic linguistics, first and second language acquisition, sociolinguistics and media discourse. This means you can shape your studies around your interests, use the latest approaches to study language critically, and connect your learning with debates in the public sphere.

Alongside this, you’ll study Chinese, French or Spanish - on a pathway that matches your experience. If you have an A level or similar competence in a modern language, you’ll take the Upper Elementary pathway. If you have limited or no knowledge of a modern language, you’ll take the Elementary pathway.

As you develop your fluency, you’ll explore the social, political, historical and cultural contexts of your chosen language through a global perspective. You’ll also build your reading, writing, speaking, listening and mediation skills through varied language resources and student-centred learning activities.

You’ll also spend time working or living abroad, experiencing life in the culture of the modern language you’re studying. This will help you develop flexible communication skills, confidence, resilience and independence.

Studying languages involves more than language itself. It brings together language, culture and society, with modules that emphasise diversity and celebrate cultural and linguistic mobility. You’ll also explore complementary issues and perspectives that connect your linguistics and modern language studies.

You’ll graduate with academic, linguistic and practical skills, including teamwork, leadership and communication and be well placed to progress into a range of careers.

Distinctive features of the programme

A dynamic experience

Learn from native and near-native speakers, with blended learning and digital technologies embedded in teaching and learning activities.

Vibrant learning community

Support your language learning and cultural immersion through conversation classes with exchange students, language cafés and student language societies.

Skills for the future

Develop academic, transferable and employability skills through a structured skills programme embedded from the beginning.

Global exploration

Spend your third year studying or working in the country of your chosen language, deepening your cultural awareness and understanding.

Employability in focus

Choose an optional credit-bearing work placement and gain professional experience.