The MA (Hons) Modern Languages for Business Management programme at Heriot-Watt University gives you the chance to study a modern foreign language from a beginner level to a proficient standard, whilst developing transferable skills in business and management.

It combines our expertise in applied language studies with specialist business courses from Heriot-Watt’s Edinburgh Business School – one of the largest and most respected business schools in Scotland with proficiency in finance, marketing, economics, and management. You can choose to study at least one of the following languages to degree level – Chinese, French, German, or Spanish. Complementary courses explore the countries in which your chosen language is studied, with a focus on their societies and business cultures. You’ll also study the core principles of business management and their application in global workplaces.

The MA (Hons) Modern Languages for Business Management programme is a clear example of our career-focused approach to language studies, and Heriot-Watt University ranked 2nd for German, 2nd for Iberian Languages and 3rd for French in Scotland in the Complete University Guide 2022. We are also accredited as a higher education partner by the Chartered Institute of Linguists.

Our Modern Languages for Business Management degree will open opportunities for a global career. It will provide you with the specialist business knowledge and transferable communication and language skills required to enter the employment market in a strong position. European and international markets present great opportunities for multilingual graduates with business and management skills, so learning a language as part of a degree in business and management can be the foundation of a truly rewarding career. 

In your third year, you’ll spend at least one semester working or studying abroad at one of our partner universities. This is a great opportunity to further develop your language skills, as you will be immersed in the language and culture you are studying.

You’ll benefit from the industry relevance of the programme, which will set you up for life after graduation. Upon completion, you’ll be equipped with a wide range of skills to embark on professional level employment in a variety of careers.

English Language Requirements

If your first language is not English, we'll need to see evidence of your English language ability.

The minimum English language requirement for entry to this programme is IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with no score lower than 5.5.

If you do not have IELTS 6.0, we offer a range of English language courses to help you meet the English language requirement for this programme prior to commencing your studies.

Please see our detailed English language requirements.