Modern Languages, Communication and Cultures (Beginner Pathway)

The MA in Modern Languages, Communication & Cultures allows students to study one language to degree level (either French or Spanish), in conjunction with courses that develop their communication skills more generally, as well as their knowledge and understanding of societies, cultures and political systems. Levels 1, 2, and 4 take a mixture of mandatory and optional courses. In Level 3 students spend one semester abroad but may spend the full year abroad if they wish. There is sufficient flexibility in the programme structure to allow students to select courses in areas of specific interest. It is a requirement of the programme that a period of time is spent abroad in the third year, as on all LINCS UG programmes (except BSL where students undertake a mandatory placement year in the UK).

Level 1
Students take language courses (1 per semester) at Intermediate level (for those with Post-Higher/ A-level qualifications in the language of study) or they will follow an accelerated intensive beginners course. Mandatory courses explore management in a global context, intercultural issues, the history and culture of countries where the chosen language is spoken, and academic or professional skills. Those who take Intermediate level language courses can also choose two courses from a range of electives.

Level 2
Level 2 moves into the advanced study of the students’ chosen language. Students will take two language courses, one mandatory course on general linguistics, and they further their understanding of the principles underlying the key aspects of cultures, societies and political systems in contemporary Europe and the wider world. Two elective courses can be chosen from a range of electives offered in LINCS.

Level 3
Students will spend at least one semester working or studying abroad but may spend the full year abroad if they wish. If one semester is spent abroad, students will return to Edinburgh to undertake supervised project work in the other semester.

Level 4
Level 4 comprises one language course in each semester, two mandatory courses on international politics and social and cultural issues from a comparative perspective, as well as two optional courses from a selection including, for example, applied linguistics and sustainable development. Students will also complete an Honours Dissertation in the course of the year.

Heriot-Watt is 2nd in the UK for positive graduate outcomes (Graduate Outcomes Survey, 2025). As Scotland’s top producer of CEOs (Novuna, 2025), their programmes focus on giving you real-world experience and strong industry links to help you kick-start your career success story. You'll have lifelong access to their award-winning Careers Service with guidance on CV tailoring, careers fairs and job applications.

They guarantee accommodation for students on their safe, green parkland campus, with all energy and Wi-Fi bills included. For students coming from England, Wales and Northern Ireland, Heriot-Watt provides a free semester of accommodation to help you with the costs of starting university.

You’ll also be living and studying in a top 2 UK student-friendly city (QS Best Cities, 2026) – Edinburgh. With a vibrant nightlife, eclectic food scene and plenty of shops and green spaces, it's a great city to be a student.

At Heriot-Watt University, you can choose to study flexibly with a 3-year honours degree, allowing you to complete the typical four-year Scottish Bachelor Honours degree in just three years while still enjoying the full student experience, including Welcome Week, Freshers’ events, and support from your Personal Tutor. This can save you both time and tuition fees while allowing you to graduate at the same time as students across the rest of the UK.

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