Language Studies BA (Hons), sandwich with foundation year and work placement

On this BA (Hons) Language Studies degree course, you'll develop the skills to communicate professionally in one or two languages. Immerse yourself in intercultural communication and awareness, and graduate with the confidence to pursue a career in the international community.

Begin your studies as a complete novice, or with some knowledge of the language, and successfully complete your studies to a professional level – C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) – without being required to spend a whole year abroad.

You'll have the choice to study either:

• One language in-depth: French, German or Spanish at an advanced or beginner level, or Mandarin Chinese at a beginner level
• Two languages at advanced level: chosen from French, German, Spanish and/or English as a foreign language
• Two languages at different levels: one language at advanced level (chosen from French, German, Spanish or English as a foreign language) and one language at beginner level (chosen from French, German, Mandarin Chinese or Spanish)

When you complete this course, you'll be well prepared to begin work that showcases your intercultural awareness and language skills – such as an international English language teacher, a translator for a multinational corporation in any sector, a tour guide for an international travel agent, or a bilingual language editor or publisher.

Having the ability to communicate effectively with people from different cultures in different contexts can lead to a rewarding career in areas such as tourism, teaching, journalism and marketing, in the UK and internationally.

The additional skills that knowing a language brings can also make you more employable in an increasingly global workforce. The growing use of tools such as video conferencing means you're more likely to work with colleagues in other countries, regardless of whether your own role is mobile or not. In fact, 16% of companies worldwide are completely remote, and 85% of managers believe their future teams will include remote workers (Findstack).

The language skills, intercultural awareness and proficiency in communication you gain from studying this course are especially sought after by businesses and organisations that operate across national borders and cultures.

What jobs can you do with a language studies degree?

You'll graduate with the skills and understanding to take up roles in many fields including:

• teacher – modern foreign languages or English as a foreign language
• international journalist or editor
• translator/interpreter
• tourist guide
• bilingual consultant
• publishing assistant
• market analyst

What areas can you work in with a language studies degree?

This degree broadens your options so you can pursue almost any career. Learning a second language is useful in all sectors, including:

• international management
• translation and interpreting
• marketing
• journalism and the media
• teaching
• tourism
• finance

You could also continue your studies at postgraduate level with a Master's in a subject such as Translation Studies or Applied Linguistics and TESOL.

Ongoing career support – up to 5 years after you graduate

Get experience while you study, with support to find part-time jobs, volunteering opportunities, and work experience.

Towards the end of your degree and for up to five years after graduation, you’ll receive one-to-one support from our Careers and Employability Service to help you find your perfect role.

Placement year (optional)

After your second or third year of study, you can choose to do a paid work placement year in the UK or overseas. This lets you put your new skills to work while developing valuable links with employers.

It’s fantastic for your CV and will really help you stand out when applying for jobs after graduation.

We’ll help you secure a work placement that fits your aspirations. Mentoring and support throughout your placement will help you to get the most from the experience.

You could also choose to set up your own business, or take a voluntary placement.

Study abroad (optional)

You can successfully complete this degree course without studying abroad.

If you do choose to take a short-term study abroad experience, you'll build on your language skills in a country where your chosen language(s) is spoken. You can take advantage of our links with universities and employers worldwide, including Germany, Spain, China, Taiwan, Latin America and Senegal.