English and Modern Languages

The undergraduate degree in English and Modern Languages at the University of Oxford offers students a unique opportunity to explore the rich literary, linguistic, and cultural traditions of the English language alongside one or more modern foreign languages. This programme is designed to develop advanced analytical, linguistic, and interpretative skills through a comprehensive curriculum that combines the study of classical and contemporary literature with language acquisition and cultural analysis. Students engage in detailed textual analysis, exploring themes, historical contexts, and literary techniques across a broad spectrum of texts from different periods and regions. The programme also emphasizes the development of fluency in modern languages such as French, German, Spanish, or Italian, enabling students to read, analyze, and communicate effectively in their chosen languages.

Throughout the course, students have the flexibility to tailor their studies according to their interests—whether focusing more heavily on English literature, delving into the linguistics and cultural contexts of additional languages, or combining both areas to gain a well-rounded understanding of language and literature. Formal instruction is supplemented by seminars, tutorials, and independent research, fostering critical thinking, scholarly inquiry, and close textual engagement. The programme typically includes coursework, essays, presentations, and examinations, culminating in a final-year dissertation or extended project.

Graduates of this programme are well-equipped for careers in academia, publishing, media, translation, diplomacy, or any field requiring strong analytical and communication skills. They benefit from Oxford’s distinguished faculty, extensive library resources, and vibrant academic community, all of which support their pursuit of linguistic mastery and literary appreciation. The interdisciplinary nature of the programme encourages students to develop a global perspective, cultural awareness, and proficiency in multiple languages, preparing them for diverse professional and personal pursuits in an increasingly interconnected world.

Most students will have one or two tutorials a week as well as compulsory language classes. Typically, students also attend three to four lecture courses per subject.

• Attestat o Srednam Obrazovanii (Certificate of Secondary Education) would not be sufficient for candidates to make a competitive application. If your qualification is listed as being insufficient to make a competitive application to Oxford, then you will need to undertake further study if you wish to apply.You could take British A-levels (the British Council may know where you can take A-levels in your country), the International Baccalaureate (IB), or any other qualifications listed as acceptable on this page. The first year of a bachelor's degree from another university could also be an acceptable alternative.
• IELTS: overall score of 7.0 (with at least 7.0 in each of the four components)
• TOEFL (paper-based): overall score of 600 with a Test of Written English score of 5.5
• TOEFL (internet-based): overall score of 110 with component scores of at least: Listening 22, Reading 24, Speaking 25, and Writing 24.
• Cambridge English: Advanced, also known as the Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): grade A if taken before January 2015, or a score of at least 185.
• Cambridge English: Proficiency, also known as the Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): grade B if taken before January 2015, or a score of at least 185.
• English Language GCSE, or O-level: grade B (for IGCSE, please see below)
• International Baccalaureate Standard Level (SL): score of 5 in English (as Language A or B)
• European Baccalaureate: score of 70% in English.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Hill Foundation Scholarship

Russian nationals wishing to study for a second undergraduate degree. 

Palgrave Brown Scholarship

Students must be ordinarily resident in and/or educated in the following countries:

Albania; Armenia; Azerbaijan; Belarus; Bosnia and Herzegovina; Bulgaria; Croatia; Czech Republic; Estonia; Georgia; Hungary; Kazakhstan; Kyrgyz Rep.; Latvia; Lithuania; Macedonia;  Moldova; Montenegro; Poland; Romania; Russia; Serbia; Slovakia; Slovenia; Tajikistan; Turkmenistan; Ukraine; Uzbekistan. 

The Bachelor of Arts in English and Modern Languages at the University of Oxford offers students a comprehensive and rigorous education in the study of English literature, as well as several modern languages, including but not limited to French, German, and Spanish. This interdisciplinary programme is designed to develop students' linguistic abilities, cultural awareness, and analytical skills through a combination of language acquisition, literary analysis, and cultural studies. Students benefit from Oxford’s distinguished faculty, extensive library resources, and a vibrant academic community that encourages critical thinking and independent research.

The course structure typically allows students to tailor their studies to their interests, with options to focus more heavily on literature, linguistics, or language acquisition. The programme incorporates compulsory language modules, enabling students to achieve proficiency in their chosen language(s), alongside optional and core texts in English literature. In the first year, students usually explore foundational courses in language skills and introductory literature. In subsequent years, they have the opportunity to engage in more specialized modules, such as medieval literature, modernist poetry, contemporary language and culture, and translation studies.

Assessment methods vary but generally include essays, translations, oral examinations, unseen translation tests, and final dissertations. The programme fosters not only language competence but also critical analysis, cultural understanding, and effective communication skills—elements highly valued in today’s globalized world. Many students go on to careers in publishing, journalism, translation, academia, international relations, or pursue further postgraduate studies.

The course promotes a collaborative learning environment, with tutorial-based teaching complemented by lectures, seminars, and language practice sessions. Studying at Oxford also gives students access to a broad network of alumni and industry contacts, as well as opportunities for participation in language immersion programs, internships, and conferences. Overall, the programme aims to produce well-rounded graduates capable of engaging thoughtfully with diverse cultures, texts, and languages, equipped with the linguistic proficiency and intellectual curiosity to succeed in various professional fields or academic pursuits.