Language Studies

    Language Studies

    Duration2 year(s)
    Tuition Fee
    GBP 6,924 / Total
    Next IntakeFebruary 1, 2024
    Language Studies

    About

    This certificate offers a flexible introduction to the study of languages, introduces you to key concepts in language learning, and develops your study skills. You can choose French, German and Spanish at beginners’ and intermediate levels, or you can increase your knowledge and skills in using English for academic study. By the end of the course, you’ll have moved well beyond the basics in at least one of your chosen languages.

    Key features of the course

    • Develops you into an independent user (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages level B1) of at least one modern language
    • Introduces you to the cultures that use your chosen languages
    • Extends your competence in intercultural communication
    • Builds a solid foundation for studying languages at more advanced levels

    This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:

    • Knowledge and understanding.
    • Cognitive skills.
    • Practical and professional skills.
    • Key skills.

    The level and depth of your learning gradually increases as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; elearning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.

    Disciplines

    Languages

    Requirements

    Entry Requirements

    Entry requirements

    There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification.

    However, there’s a choice of starting points in your chosen modern language(s) – your choice will depend on your current level of confidence and proficiency.

    Beginners’ or intermediate languages module?

    How to choose the right level

    Unless you have prior knowledge of your chosen language(s) equivalent to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) level A2, we recommend you start with a beginners’ module.

    Beginners’ and intermediate language modules are both 30-credit modules, and both start in October and end in June. Intermediate modules follow on from the learning in beginners’ modules, so you should not study them in the same language concurrently unless you already have significant knowledge of the language.

    Our self-assessment quiz can help you decide between starting with beginners’ or intermediate French, German and Spanish, and provide guidance on choosing the right modern language level for you.

    Contact us if you’d like to speak to and adviser.

    English Requirements

    • IELTSMin 6.5

    Career

    Skills for career development

    This certificate raises your awareness of cultural differences and similarities – a key employability skill when people with different language and cultural backgrounds are increasingly meeting and working together. You’ll develop language skills in at least one modern foreign language and there is also a strong emphasis on communication in our digital age.

    Career relevance

    Languages and intercultural skills are key assets in tourism, international business and administration, and the diplomatic service. They are also highly valued by employers in a wide range of other sectors, who place a premium on the ability to make contact and communicate with global trade partners and to understand overseas business environments – and who often acknowledge this with higher salaries. According to the National Centre for Languages, knowing foreign languages opens the doors to a wide range of economic, social and personal benefits. Being able to communicate effectively with our customers, colleagues and business partners is critical to competitiveness and social cohesion. The languages most in demand in UK industry are French, German, Spanish and Mandarin, though knowledge of any other language will also give you the edge.

    Exploring your options

    Once you register with us (and for up to three years after you finish your studies), you’ll have full access to our careers service for a wide range of information and advice – including online forums, website, interview simulation, vacancy service as well as the option to email or speak to a careers adviser. Some areas of the careers service website are available for you to see now, including help with looking for and applying for jobs. You can also read more general information about how OU study enhances your career.

    In the meantime if you want to do some research around this qualification and where it might take you, we’ve put together a list of relevant job titles as a starting point (note that some careers may require further study, training and/or work experience):

    • PR consultant
    • journalist
    • editor
    • advertising account manager
    • marketing officer
    • copywriter
    • tour manager
    • event organiser
    • travel agency manager.

    On to 'Entry requirements'

    Fee Information

    How to Apply

    1. Start registration

    To secure your place, you need to register – don't worry, there's nothing to pay at this stage. Go to your chosen qualification, select your preferred start date and click on 'Register Now'.

    2. Choose modules

    We'll ask you to select the module you intend to study in your first year. Some modules on your chosen qualification will be compulsory, while others may be selected from a list of options..

    3. Organise funding

    Tell us how you will be paying for your chosen module. For example, you'd like to pay by credit or debit card.

    4. Complete registration

    To complete your registration, you'll need to confirm your payment method.

    Language Studies
    The Open University UK
    The Open University UK
    United Kingdom

    United Kingdom, Milton Keynes

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