Modern Languages for Business Management (Beginner Pathway) MA (Hons)

This programme gives a thorough grounding in a modern foreign language (either Chinese, French, German or Spanish) and develops their knowledge of the society and business culture of the countries in which this language is spoken, as well as the principles of business management and their application in global workplaces. It allows students to gain the knowledge, skills and expertise required to enter the employment market and to open up opportunities for a global career.<br/>In years 1, 2 and 4 students take a mix of mandatory and optional courses, including one mandatory Business Management-focused course per semester. <br/><br/>**Level 1**<br/>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 intercultural issues and the history and culture of countries where the chosen language is spoken, as well as management in a global context. and students will have the opportunity to develop their critical writing skills and employability through optional courses. Those who take Intermediate level language courses can also choose two courses from a range of electives.<br/><br/>**Level 2**<br/>Level 2 moves into the advanced study of students’ chosen languages. It includes two Advanced language courses, as well as mandatory courses exploring intercultural issues in Business Management, general linguistics, and 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.<br/><br/>**Level 3**<br/>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.<br/><br/>**Level 4**<br/>Level 4 comprises one language course in each semester, three mandatory courses on international politics, and aspects of international Business Management. Students can also choose one optional course from a selection including modules on sustainable development and comparative cultural studies. In addition, students will complete an Honours Dissertation in the course of the year.

Heriot-Watt are 2nd in the UK for undergraduate employability (Graduate Outcomes Survey, 2024) and 25th in the UK overall (Complete University Guide, 2025). You’ll have lifelong access to their award-winning Careers Service and join the oldest alumni association in the UK with over 166,000 members in 190 countries – The Watt Club.<br/><br/>A vibrant nightlife, eclectic food scene and plenty of shops and green space – Edinburgh has it all. It’s a safe and friendly city and a great place to be a student. That’s why it’s ranked UK’s 2nd best student-friendly city (QS Best Student Cities, 2025). <br/><br/>Moving away from home is a big decision, which is why students from England, Wales and Northern Ireland are offered a £1,500 bursary. This no-strings-attached bursary means you can visit home anytime during your first year (or spend it on something else).<br/><br/>Register for your Heriot-Watt Priority Pass to make sure you are first in line when Clearing opens, or to chat with their friendly team.